Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America (Pacific Northwest to the Rocky Mountains)
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay but susceptible to insect attack without treatment.
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Grain Pattern
Straight and fairly coarse grain with distinct growth rings; flat-sawn orientation showing prominent latewood appearing as darker bands.
Color & Appearance
Orange-brown heartwood with lighter yellowish sapwood; exhibits medium luster and darkens to a more pronounced reddish-brown over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay but susceptible to insect attack without treatment.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $1.50 - $3.00 per board foot for utility/construction grade.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Freshly cut utility stock, likely processed within the last 12-24 months based on low oxidation and rough-sawn mill marks.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widely available with FSC certification and heavy plantation cultivation.
Common Uses
Heavy structural timber, dimensional construction lumber, flooring, plywood core, and utility-grade shipping pallets.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest to the Rocky Mountains)
Workability
Generally works well with machine tools but is prone to splintering and tearout along the grain; holds nails and screws well but may require pre-drilling near ends.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to film-forming finishes like polyurethane; clear oils may result in uneven absorption due to the density difference between earlywood and latewood.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; high strength-to-weight ratio for a softwood; high tannin content can cause blue staining if in contact with iron.
