Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America and the Pacific Northwest.
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable, with moderate resistance to decay and insects.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with pronounced growth rings and characteristic flat-sawn cathedral patterns, featuring visible knots.
Color & Appearance
Light brown or reddish-brown heartwood with a distinct paler yellowish-white sapwood, exhibiting moderate natural luster and darkening to a deeper amber/brown tone with age and light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable, with moderate resistance to decay and insects.
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 20 to 50 years old based on surface wear patterns, oxidation, and general finish degradation.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, generally of least concern on the IUCN red list, widely available from sustainably managed forests and plantations with FSC certification.
Common Uses
Construction and framing, plywood, flooring, heavy timber construction, doors, and veneer.
Geographic Origin
Western North America and the Pacific Northwest.
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though the sharp contrast in density between earlywood and latewood can occasionally cause splintering or uneven planing if tools are not sharp.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, varnishes, and polyurethane well; pre-conditioning may be used for even stain absorption on the lighter sapwood.
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, distinct contrasting grain lines, characteristic resin pockets, and a pleasant, mild resinuous scent.
