Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, prominent, and distinct. This sample exhibits a flat-sawn (plain-sawn) orientation with very tight, even growth rings transitioning to cathedral patterns.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light reddish-brown to a yellowish-tan. Earlywood is light and soft, while latewood is remarkably dark and dense. It tends to darken or redden with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack. Stronger and more durable than most spruce/pine species.
Common Uses
Structural framing, heavy construction, flooring, cabinetry, interior trim, veneer, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain/CVG commands a premium).
Wood Age Estimate
The board appears relatively modern and freshly milled based on the lack of deep oxidation/patina, likely kiln-dried within the last 1-5 years.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available with FSC certification. Not CITES listed. A highly sustainable and managed timber resource.
Workability
Generally easy to work with machine and hand tools. However, the contrast between soft earlywood and hard latewood can cause uneven sanding and tearout when planing against the grain.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous, sweet scent when cut. High strength-to-weight ratio. Prone to splintering at edges due to dense latewood bands.
Finish Recommendations
Takes most finishes well, but a wood conditioner is recommended before staining to prevent blotching. Polyurethane or lacquer are common to protect the soft surface.
Identification Confidence
High; the very distinct, sharp transitions between earlywood and dark latewood, along with the specific orange-tan hue and straight grain, are classic markers of Douglas Fir.