Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a medium to coarse texture; exhibits a flat-sawn cathedral figure on the face with distinct transition between earlywood and latewood rings.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a light reddish-brown to orange-brown; sapwood is a paler yellowish-white. The wood darkens significantly and becomes more orange/red with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers moderate resistance to rot and decay but is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Construction framing, heavy timbers, flooring, cabinetry, plywood, and exterior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
Approx. $3.00 - $6.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain commands a higher price).
Wood Age Estimate
Newer stock, likely less than 2-5 years as a processed board, showing minimal oxidation or deep patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in the CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and FSC certified sources are common.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can be prone to splintering and tearout. Glues and finishes well, but requires a sealer/conditioner due to uneven resin absorption.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; high strength-to-weight ratio making it a preferred structural softwood.
Finish Recommendations
Clear polyurethane or lacquer; oil-based stains require a pre-stain conditioner to prevent blotching due to density differences between rings.
Identification Confidence
High; the reddish-orange hue combined with the very sharp contrast between the light earlywood and dark, dense latewood rings is characteristic of Douglas Fir.