Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Predominantly straight grain with prominent, tight growth rings. Presence of swirling grain around a character knot and slight cathedral pattern where the board transitions toward flat-sawn texture.
Color Description
Light brown to reddish-brown heartwood with a yellowish-white sapwood. Shows a distinct contrast between light earlywood and dark latewood rings. Tends to darken/redden significantly with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; heartwood shows moderate resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Heavy structural lumber, flooring, sash and door manufacturing, cabinetry, veneer, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest through the Rocky Mountains).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot (select grade or vertical grain is higher).
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent/modern stock (likely under 10 years old) based on the lack of deep oxidation, lack of tool wear, and clean mechanical surfacing.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES or IUCN Red List; widely available and generally considered sustainable with FSC certification common.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though it can be prone to splintering and tearout if tools are not sharp. Holds glues and finishes well but may require a sealer for even staining.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut. High strength-to-weight ratio. Known for prominent resin canals and sharp transition between earlywood and latewood.
Finish Recommendations
Clear polyurethane or lacquer to highlight grain; if staining, a pre-stain wood conditioner is highly recommended to prevent blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High; identification based on the color contrast of growth rings, characteristic resin knot, grain density of Western Douglas Fir, and typical lumber dimensions shown.