Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, vertical grain with distinct reddish-brown latewood bands; rift-sawn to quarter-sawn appearance showing prominent growth rings and occasional small knots or pitch pockets.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light reddish-brown to orange-yellow. Sapwood is a lighter creamy white. It has a moderate natural luster and typically darkens to a more pronounced reddish-orange with age and light exposure.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay and rot, though susceptible to insect attack if untreated.
Common Uses
Construction framing, flooring, cabinetry, veneer, boat building, and heavy structural timbers.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $8.00 per board foot (higher for clear, vertical grain grades)
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively new; less than 5 years old based on the lack of deep oxidation, clean machining marks, and vibrant natural color.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES or IUCN Red List; widely available and frequently FSC-certified; a primary commercially managed timber species.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can be prone to splintering or 'tearout' on the earlywood/latewood transitions. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; known for its high strength-to-weight ratio among softwoods; contains significant sap/pitch content.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for protection; penetrating oils work well but may require sanding to prevent grain raise.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of prominent reddish latewood bands, overall golden-orange hue, and characteristic grain structure is diagnostic of Douglas Fir.