Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Pacific Northwest of North America, extending from British Columbia down through California.
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with tight vertical growth rings typical of quartersawn or rift-sawn orientation, showing distinct earlywood and latewood contrast.
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown to yellowish-brown heartwood with a lighter yellowish sapwood. Exhibits moderate natural luster and darkens to a rich amber-brown upon prolonged exposure to light.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and dimensions.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent stock, estimated between 1 to 5 years old based on surface condition and minimal oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN. Readily available from sustainably managed forests and plantations.
Common Uses
Construction, framing, plywood, flooring, heavy timber construction, doors, window sashes, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America, extending from British Columbia down through California.
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though the sharp contrast in density between earlywood and latewood can occasionally cause splintering or uneven planing if blades are not extremely sharp.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, varnishes, and polyurethanes very well. A sanding sealer may be useful to prevent blotchiness on softer earlywood areas.
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, distinct resin canals, and a pronounced grain transition between seasonal growth rings.
