Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly wavy grain with a medium to coarse texture. Flat-sawn boards show prominent 'cathedral' patterns. Small knots are present, and there is a distinct transition between earlywood and latewood rings.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a light reddish-brown or yellowish-tan. Sapwood is a lighter cream to pale yellow. The wood tends to darken or redden over time when exposed to UV light. High contrast between growth rings is a signature look.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; heartwood is resistant to decay and rot, but susceptible to insect attack (such as beetles and termites).
Common Uses
Structural framing, heavy construction, flooring, cabinetry, interior trim, plywood/veneers, and window frames.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 to $8.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain/Clear being more expensive).
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/new stock. The lack of significant graying (weathering), deep patina, or oxidation suggests the wood has been kept indoors and was recently milled or surfaced.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and not CITES listed. It is considered a sustainable and abundant timber resource.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It takes glue and finishes well, though the hard latewood bands can occasionally cause some unevenness in sanding or 'splintery' edges.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous, sweet scent when cut; high strength-to-weight ratio for a softwood; distinct high-contrast growth rings.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts most finishes well; however, a sanding sealer or pre-stain conditioner is recommended before staining to prevent blotching due to density variations in growth rings.
Identification Confidence
High; the reddish-orange hue combined with the specific cathedral grain pattern and presence of characteristic knots is highly indicative of Douglas Fir.