Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America, particularly the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions.
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable, with moderate resistance to decay and insects, though heartwood performs better than sapwood.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy with prominent, highly defined growth rings visible in vertical/rift grain orientation and a small knot feature.
Color & Appearance
Light yellowish-brown or reddish-brown heartwood with a lighter yellowish sapwood, exhibiting moderate natural luster and darkening to a deeper amber or reddish-brown patina over time with light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable, with moderate resistance to decay and insects, though heartwood performs better than sapwood.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and vertical grain quality.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be relatively recent (modern milled lumber, roughly 5-20 years old), showing minimal surface oxidation or wear.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN. Readily available through sustainably managed forests and plantation growth.
Common Uses
Construction framing, plywood, flooring, heavy timber construction, doors, window sashes, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America, particularly the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions.
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though the stark contrast in density between earlywood and latewood can sometimes cause splintering or uneven planing if tools are not sharp.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, varnishes, oils, and paints very well, though a pre-stain conditioner may be helpful to ensure even absorption across the varied earlywood and latewood densities.
Notable Features
Known for an exceptionally high strength-to-weight ratio, distinct resin canals, faint resinous scent, and prominent contrast between earlywood and latewood rings.
