Most likely Douglas-fir; alternatives include southern yellow pine or another painted softwood. — Pseudotsuga menziesii

Most likely Douglas-fir; alternatives include southern yellow pine or another painted softwood.

Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood (conifer).

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Softwood (conifer).
Origin
Native to western North America, especially the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia; widely planted and milled elsewhere.
Hardness
Douglas-fir: approximately 620 lbf, Soft.
Durability
Slightly durable; limited natural resistance to decay, insects, and prolonged exterior weathering unless protected.

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Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, fine-to-medium texture; apparent flat-sawn broad bands are obscured by paint and wear.

Color & Appearance

Likely orange-tan to reddish-brown heartwood with paler sapwood; aged surface is gray-brown beneath white residue and finish.

Hardness (Janka)

Douglas-fir: approximately 620 lbf, Soft.

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly durable; limited natural resistance to decay, insects, and prolonged exterior weathering unless protected.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Common reclaimed Douglas-fir: roughly $4–$10 per board foot, varying substantially with dimensions and salvage quality.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The sill dates to about 1900, but the wood’s biological age cannot be determined from this image.

Common Uses

Historic window sills, framing, trim, doors, flooring, furniture, and general construction lumber.

Geographic Origin

Native to western North America, especially the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia; widely planted and milled elsewhere.

Workability

Machines and sands readily, though resin, knots, and uneven grain can cause tear-out or dulling; gluing and fastening are generally easy.

Finish Recommendations

Remove residue carefully, test for old coatings, sand progressively, and use a compatible primer before paint; clear finishes may emphasize uneven color.

Notable Features

Lightweight, resinous softwood with pronounced earlywood/latewood contrast; old paint, abrasion, and weathering dominate the visible character.

Notes

Window sill from 1900

Learn more about Most likely Douglas-fir; alternatives include southern yellow pine or another painted softwood. in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 9, 2026

Encyclopedia

Learn about Most Likely Douglas-fir; Alternatives Include Southern Yellow Pine Or Another Painted Softwood. in the encyclopedia

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