Douglas Fir — Pseudotsuga menziesii

Douglas Fir

Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Softwood
Origin
Pacific Northwest of North America and western mountainous regions.
Hardness
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability
Moderately Durable, with good resistance to weathering and moderate resistance to rot, though susceptible to insect attack.

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Grain Pattern

Strictly vertical grain (quarter-sawn/rift-sawn) with extremely tight, parallel growth rings indicating slow growth.

Color & Appearance

Light reddish-brown heartwood with a paler yellowish-white sapwood, moderate natural luster, darkening to a deeper amber brown with exposure to UV light.

Hardness (Janka)

660 lbf (Soft)

Durability & Decay Resistance

Moderately Durable, with good resistance to weathering and moderate resistance to rot, though susceptible to insect attack.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

$3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and vertical grain quality.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
Estimated to be freshly cut to a few years old, with minimal surface oxidation.

Common Uses

Structural framing, plywood, flooring, heavy timber construction, boat building, doors, and window sashes.

Geographic Origin

Pacific Northwest of North America and western mountainous regions.

Workability

Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though the strong contrast between earlywood and latewood can occasionally cause splintering or uneven planing if blades are not sharp.

Finish Recommendations

Takes stains and finishes well, though a sanding sealer or pre-stain conditioner is recommended to ensure even color absorption across earlywood and latewood bands.

Notable Features

Distinctive resin odor, high strength-to-weight ratio, excellent acoustic properties making it popular for soundboards.

Learn more about Douglas Fir in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified August 16, 2026