Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, tight vertical grain (quarter-sawn/rift-sawn) with very distinct, even growth rings and a high percentage of latewood.
Color Description
Heartwood is light reddish-brown to orangeish-yellow; sapwood is yellowish-white. It darkens and reddens significantly over time with exposure to UV light.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft to Medium-Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; variable resistance to rot and fungal decay, susceptible to insect attack (beetles/termites).
Common Uses
Heavy structural timber, flooring, trim, cabinetry, boat building, aircraft components, and window/door frames.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot for Vertical Grain (VG) clear grade
Wood Age Estimate
Modern stock based on fresh plane marks and lack of deep oxidation; the tree from which it was cut appears to be 60-80 years old based on ring count.
Sustainability Status
Commonly available, not CITES listed. Widely managed through FSC certification and sustainable reforestation practices.
Workability
Works well with tools but can be prone to splintering and tearout in the earlywood/latewood transition. Glue and finishes well, but resins can bleed through some finishes.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; high strength-to-weight ratio; high tannin and resin content which can interfere with some paints.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or clear polyurethane are recommended. A wood conditioner/sealer is advised before staining to prevent blotching.
Identification Confidence
High; the tight, vertical growth rings, color shift between early/latewood, and overall orange-red hue are diagnostic for high-grade Douglas Fir.