Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a coarse, uneven texture. The sample shows a flat-sawn orientation with distinct, prominent latewood bands (growth rings).
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a light reddish-brown to orange-yellow. The sapwood is light yellow to white. This sample displays the characteristic warm orange-pink hues of the species, which will darken to a deeper reddish-brown over time with exposure to UV light.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; one of the most durable softwoods against rot and decay, though susceptible to insect attack without treatment.
Common Uses
Heavy construction, framing, flooring, cabinetry, plywood, window frames, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot (standard grade)
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively modern (less than 20 years). The surface appears freshly cut or roughly milled with sharp edges and minimal oxidation or patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices; IUCN Red List status of 'Least Concern.' Widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the dramatic difference in hardness between the earlywood and latewood can cause uneven sanding and 'wash-boarding.' It holds glue and finishes well but is prone to splintering.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous, sweet scent when cut. It has high strength-to-weight ratio and is the standard for structural timber in North America.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or polyurethane are recommended. A wood conditioner or sealer is suggested before staining to prevent blotching due to uneven density.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the reddish-orange color, the thick and distinctively dark latewood bands, and its application as a structural support under a countertop are classic indicators of Douglas Fir.