Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, moderately tight growth rings with a distinct transition from light earlywood to darker latewood; shows a flat-sawn to slightly rift-sawn pattern with some cathedral figuring visible at the top edge.
Color Description
Light brown to reddish-brown heartwood with a yellowish-white sapwood. Color tends to darken to a deeper reddish-orange over time with exposure to UV light; low to medium luster.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay and rot but is susceptible to insect attack, particularly beetles and termites.
Common Uses
Structural framing, plywood, flooring, heavy construction, trim/molding, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approximately $2.50 - $4.50 per board foot for select/vertical grain grades; standard construction grade is significantly less.
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/modern stock; clean surfacing and lack of significant oxidation or patina suggest it is likely less than 5 years old and stored in a dry environment.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES or the IUCN Red List; widely available and frequently FSC certified due to extensive commercial plantation harvesting.
Workability
Excellent with both hand and machine tools, though latewood can be brittle and prone to splintering. Holds nails and screws well but may require pre-drilling near edges.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; high strength-to-weight ratio; abrupt transition between earlywood and latewood creates high contrast in the grain.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and oils well, though a wood conditioner is recommended to prevent blotching. Polyurethane or lacquer are preferred for high-traffic surfaces like flooring.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic 'orange' hue of the latewood, the prominent grain contrast, and the clear softwood structure are diagnostic for Douglas Fir.