Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America and Pacific Northwest
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a pronounced vertical linear pattern characteristic of quarter-sawn or edge-grained softwood lumber.
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown to yellowish-orange heartwood with lighter yellowish-white sapwood, showing moderate natural luster and darkening to a deeper amber or brown tone with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and vertical grain quality
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be several decades old based on surface oxidation, wear patterns, and accumulated dust/patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN, with widespread sustainable forestry and plantation growing in North America.
Common Uses
Construction and framing, heavy timber framing, plywood, veneer, flooring, doors, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America and Pacific Northwest
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though the pronounced contrast between soft earlywood and hard latewood can sometimes cause splintering or uneven planing if tools are not kept sharp.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, varnishes, and polyurethanes well, though a sanding sealer may be beneficial to ensure uniform absorption given the varying density between earlywood and latewood.
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, distinct resin canals, and a characteristic pleasant resiny scent when freshly cut.
