Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy, flat-sawn with prominent growth ring transitions. The end grain shows distinct, abrupt transitions between the light earlywood and the dark, denser latewood typical of high-strength conifers.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a light reddish-brown, while the sapwood is yellowish-white. It often darkens to a more pronounced orange-red with age and sunlight exposure. The end grain shows a medium luster.
Hardness Rating
710 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; has some moderate resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack (beetles and termites) if not treated.
Common Uses
Structural framing, heavy timbers, veneer, flooring, windows, doors, and general millwork. A cornerstone of the North American construction industry.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest through the Rocky Mountains)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$1.50 - $4.00 per board foot depending on grade (clear vs. knotty) and drying method.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears relatively fresh or salvaged from more recent stock; the growth rings suggest it was harvested from a tree approximately 40-60 years old based on ring density.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List. Widely available as FSC-certified and is a major plantation-grown species.
Workability
Generally works well with hand and machine tools, though the density difference between earlywood and latewood can cause uneven sanding or 'washboarding'. Holds nails and screws well and glues easily.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous, sweet odor when freshly cut. Noted for having one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios among softwoods.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, but a sanding sealer or wood conditioner is recommended to prevent blotching due to the varying density of the growth rings.
Identification Confidence
High; the abrupt transition between earlywood and latewood, the pinkish-orange hue, and the growth ring curvature visible in the end grain are classic indicators of Douglas Fir.