Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America (Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions)
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight and vertical grain (vertical grain on the left piece showing tight parallel growth rings, and flat-sawn cathedral pattern on the angled piece on the right)
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown to yellowish-brown heartwood with a lighter yellowish sapwood, displaying moderate natural luster that darkens to a deep reddish-brown upon exposure to UV light and air
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 2.00 to 5.00 USD per board foot for standard dimensional lumber grades
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 10 to 30 years old, showing typical light weathered patina and oxidation consistent with outdoor or garage exposure
- Sustainability Status
- Generally abundant and sustainable; widely managed on tree farms and commercial plantations with good FSC availability and not listed on CITES
Common Uses
Construction framing, dimensional lumber, exterior decking, flooring, heavy timber construction, plywood, and boat building
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions)
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the strong contrast in density between earlywood and latewood can occasionally cause splintering or uneven planing if tools are not sharp
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, varnishes, and exterior penetrating oils very well, though exterior applications benefit strongly from UV-blocking finishes to prevent graying
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, pronounced contrast between springwood and summerwood growth rings, characteristic resin odor, and moderate dimensional stability when properly seasoned
