Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly wavy grain with a medium to coarse texture. Visible growth rings show a distinct transition between lighter earlywood and darker latewood. Large, tight knots (like the one visible on the left casing) are common in architectural grades.
Color Description
The wood exhibits a warm reddish-brown heartwood and a yellowish-white sapwood. As seen in the image, the color can range from light tan to a deeper amber-brown. It typically darkens with age and exposure to UV light, developing a richer patina.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers moderate resistance to rot and decay but is susceptible to insect attack if left untreated in outdoor environments.
Common Uses
Heavy structural timber, flooring, window and door frames, interior trim, cabinetry, and exterior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Western North America, primarily the Pacific Northwest, extending from British Columbia down through California and into the Rocky Mountains.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain commands a higher price than flat-sawn or rustic grades).
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be modern architectural millwork, likely less than 10-20 years old, based on the uniform surface prep and contemporary finish.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available as FSC certified and managed through sustainable forestry practices in North America.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools. It glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can be prone to splintering or tearing if tools are not sharp due to the density difference between earlywood and latewood.
Notable Features
Features a distinct resinous, citrus-like scent when freshly cut. It possesses excellent strength-to-weight ratios for a softwood and has high resin content which can occasionally seep through finishes if not properly dried.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains well, though a pre-stain conditioner is recommended to prevent blotchiness. Film-building finishes like polyurethane or lacquer are ideal for trim and casing to protect the softer surface from dings.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic reddish-orange hue, the specific grain structure of the growth rings, and the presence of the round, dark 'dead' knot on the edge are classic morphological indicators of Douglas Fir used in residential construction.