Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Pacific Northwest and western regions of North America.
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable (Good decay resistance, moderate insect resistance)
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Grain Pattern
Straight, fine grain with clear vertical growth rings visible along the narrow face; flat-sawn appearance on the primary face.
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown to yellowish-orange heartwood with a paler, yellowish-white sapwood. Moderate natural luster that darkens slightly to a warm amber patina with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable (Good decay resistance, moderate insect resistance)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.00 to $4.50 per board foot depending on grade and dimensions.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated 10 to 30 years old based on surface oxidation, minor wear patterns, and typical modern milling marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern. Readily available from sustainably managed forests and plantations (FSC certified available).
Common Uses
Construction framing, structural plywood, flooring, doors, window frames, beams, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Pacific Northwest and western regions of North America.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though knots can cause dulling. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but high contrast between earlywood and latewood can occasionally cause uneven finishing.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, varnishes, polyurethanes, and oils well. A sanding sealer may be beneficial to ensure uniform stain absorption given the difference in density between earlywood and latewood.
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, distinct contrast between hard latewood and softer earlywood bands, characteristic resin canals, and a pleasant resiny scent when freshly cut.
