Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America and Pacific Northwest
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a prominent flat-sawn growth ring pattern visible on the face
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown to yellowish-orange heartwood with lighter yellowish sapwood, showing darkening and patina from age and exposure
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3 to 6 dollars per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 20 to 50 years based on surface oxidation, wear, and accumulation of dust and patina
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, generally considered sustainable with widespread plantation and managed forest availability
Common Uses
Construction, framing, structural plywood, flooring, heavy timber construction, and doors
Geographic Origin
Western North America and Pacific Northwest
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though knots can be hard and cause dulling. Glues and finishes well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, varnishes, polyurethane, and oils well; light sanding recommended to remove surface oxidation before finishing
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, distinct earlywood and latewood contrast, characteristic slight resinous scent when freshly cut
