Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America, primarily Pacific Northwest and British Columbia.
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable, offering decent resistance to decay and weathering, though susceptible to insect attack if left untreated.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with distinct growth rings visible on the face and edge grain, typical of flat-sawn or plain-sawn dimensional lumber.
Color & Appearance
Reddish-brown to light brown heartwood with a lighter yellowish-sapwood. The wood shows moderate luster and tends to darken to a deeper brownish-red color with prolonged exposure to light and oxidation.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable, offering decent resistance to decay and weathering, though susceptible to insect attack if left untreated.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $2.00 to $4.00 per board foot for standard dimensional lumber grades.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 20 to 50 years old based on surface wear, dust accumulation, oxidation, and dry storage patina.
- Sustainability Status
- Generally abundant and sustainable; widely managed on tree farms and commercial timberlands with FSC certification widely available.
Common Uses
Construction, framing, plywood, flooring, heavy timber construction, and exterior decking.
Geographic Origin
Western North America, primarily Pacific Northwest and British Columbia.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the pronounced hardness difference between earlywood and latewood can sometimes cause splintering or uneven planing.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, paints, and clear sealers well. Exterior applications require UV-resistant finishes to prevent graying.
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, distinct contrasting growth rings, and a slight resinous scent when freshly cut.
