Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight and fairly coarse grain with prominent, darker latewood bands; sample shows circular saw marks and a rough-hewn flat-sawn texture.
Color Description
Ranges from light yellowish-tan to reddish-brown in the heartwood with paler sapwood; currently showing a gray-brown weathered patina due to oxidation and exposure.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; heartwood has moderate resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Heavy structural construction, dimension lumber, flooring, plywood, and exterior decking.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountains).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.50 to $5.00 per board foot depending on grade and kiln drying.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern era (10-40 years); the rough circular saw marks and surface oxidation suggest utility lumber that has been exposed to elements.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern on IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification and not listed by CITES.
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can split during nailing and may experience tearout due to the transition between hard latewood and soft earlywood.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when freshly cut; known for its high strength-to-weight ratio among softwoods.
Finish Recommendations
Resin-sealing primer is recommended if painting; for a natural look, use penetrating oils or external-grade sealants. Sanding to higher grits is difficult due to density variations in rings.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the prominent latewood bands, reddish-tan undertone visible in the rough grain, and the specific circular-saw texture are classic indicators of Douglas Fir utility timber.