Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a medium to coarse texture. Visible flatsawn cathedral patterns and presence of tight, dark knots. Prominent transition between earlywood and latewood rings.
Color Description
Light brown to orange-red heartwood with pale yellowish sapwood. Exposure to UV light causes the wood to darken and redden over time. High contrast between growth rings.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack if left untreated in ground contact.
Common Uses
Structural framing, heavy construction/timbers, plywood, veneer, flooring, and window/door frames.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot (standard dimensional lumber is lower, clear vertical grain is higher)
Wood Age Estimate
Freshly milled/Recent; minimal oxidation or patina, light color suggests young stock likely from a retail lumber yard.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and frequently FSC-certified.
Workability
Works well with most tools, though it can be prone to splintering or tearing. Glues, stains, and finishes well, but high resin content can occasionally pose challenges for finishes.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut. Known for high strength-to-weight ratio among softwoods. May contain small resin pockets.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, varnish, or penetrating oils. A wood conditioner is recommended before staining to ensure even color absorption due to ring density variation.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct reddish-orange heartwood, bold growth ring contrast typical of conifers in the Pinaceae family, and standard dimensional milling marks are characteristic of Douglas Fir.