Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America and the Pacific Northwest region.
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with prominent, distinct growth rings showing a classic flat-sawn/quarter-sawn transition pattern and a tight knot feature.
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown to yellowish-brown heartwood with a lighter yellowish-white sapwood, moderate natural luster, and tends to darken to a deeper amber or reddish brown with age and exposure to UV light.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and dimensions.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately seasoned, potentially several decades old based on the tight growth rings indicating a slow-growth mature tree.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN, with widespread sustainable forestry and plantation management.
Common Uses
Construction framing, structural beams, plywood, veneer, flooring, doors, and heavy timber construction.
Geographic Origin
Western North America and the Pacific Northwest region.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a moderate tendency to splinter along growth rings; glues, nails, and finishes well with proper care.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, varnishes, and modern polyurethane finishes exceptionally well; sanding evenly is recommended to prevent blotchiness.
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, distinct resin canals, and a characteristic pleasant resiny scent when freshly cut.
