Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with very prominent, distinct growth rings. The transition from earlywood to latewood is abrupt, creating a high-contrast banded appearance. Contains occasional knots and resin canals.
Color Description
Light brown to reddish-brown heartwood with a yellowish to white sapwood. It tends to redden or darken to a deeper orange-brown with age and UV exposure. Low to medium luster.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; heartwood is resistant to decay but susceptible to insect attack. Excellent strength-to-weight ratio for a softwood.
Common Uses
Heavy structural lumber, house framing, flooring, veneer, cabinetry, and exterior millwork. Frequently used for glue-laminated beams (glulams).
Geographic Origin
Western North America, primarily the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.00 to $5.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain vs. Construction Grade).
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively fresh milled stock (likely under 1 year old); the fibers are bright with minimal graying/oxidation, though some surface checking and rough-sawn marks are visible.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and harvested from sustainably managed forests. Widely FSC certified.
Workability
Works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can be prone to splintering and tearout because of the density difference between earlywood and latewood. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous, sweet scent when cut. Known for the hardest and heaviest wood of any commercial softwood in North America. Not a 'true' fir.
Finish Recommendations
Takes most finishes well. Transparent stains or clear polyurethanes are recommended to highlight the grain contrast. Use a wood conditioner if staining to prevent blotching.
Identification Confidence
High; the abrupt transition between earlywood and latewood, the specific reddish-orange hue, and the growth ring density are classic diagnostic features of Douglas Fir.