Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a medium to coarse texture; exhibiting a prominent growth ring pattern with distinct transition from light earlywood to darker latewood.
Color Description
Light brown to reddish-brown heartwood with a narrow band of pale yellow sapwood. The wood tends to darken and redden with age upon exposure to UV light. Medium luster.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack. Fairly stable for outdoor use if treated or well-maintained.
Common Uses
Heavy construction, flooring, cabinetry, interior trim, plywood, boat building, and structural timbers.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and vertical grain selection.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern cut; appears to be contemporary construction-grade lumber with minimal oxidation or historical patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and frequently harvested from FSC-certified managed forests.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can exhibit tearout during planing if grain is irregular. Glue and finish well, but may require a sealer to prevent blotchiness.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when fresh; high strength-to-weight ratio for a softwood; high resin content can occasionally gum up blades.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts most finishes well; clear polyurethane, lacquer, or penetrating oils are recommended. Using a wood conditioner or sanding sealer before staining is advised to ensure even color.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic sharp contrast between earlywood and latewood bands combined with the warm reddish-tan hue is diagnostic of North American Douglas Fir.