Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy grain with a very distinct cathedral pattern visible in the flat-sawn log siding profile. Features prominent growth rings with a sharp contrast between light-colored earlywood and dark-colored latewood, and occasional small, tight knots.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a light reddish-brown, while the sapwood is a yellowish-white. The sample shows significant oxidation and ambering common in aged fir, exhibiting a warm honey-to-orange hue that darkens with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; one of the strongest and most durable softwoods against decay and rot, though susceptible to insect attack if not treated.
Common Uses
Log home construction, exterior siding, heavy timbers for framing, boat building, flooring, and interior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest through the Rocky Mountains)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot for select grades; lower for construction-grade timbers.
Wood Age Estimate
10-25 years; evidenced by the deep amber patina and the surface texture indicating previous exposure to environmental elements or older finishing oils.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available with FSC certification and regarded as a sustainable, fast-growing timber resource in North America.
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though the transition between soft earlywood and hard latewood can cause uneven sanding and 'shell-out'. Holds nails and screws well.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous/sweet scent when freshly cut. Noted for having one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios among softwoods.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oil-based stains or clear polyurethanes are recommended. If used outdoors, a finish with high UV inhibitors is required to prevent silvering.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the specific 'cathedral' grain structure, the distinctively sharp contrast in growth rings, and the log-siding application is classic for Douglas Fir.