Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Primarily straight grain with prominent, tight growth rings visible on the end grain. The face grain shows a medium-coarse texture with distinct transition between light-colored earlywood and darker latewood rings.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a reddish-brown to light tan; sapwood is a narrower band of yellowish-white. It tends to darken or amber significantly with age and UV exposure, especially under oil-based finishes.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some natural resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack and not suitable for direct ground contact without treatment.
Common Uses
Heavy structural timber, dimensional construction lumber, flooring, cabinetry, veneer, and boat building. Widely used for posts and poles.
Geographic Origin
Western North America, primarily the Pacific Northwest, extending from British Columbia down through California and into the Rocky Mountains.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.50 - $4.00 per board foot for select grades; lower for standard construction grade timber.
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be from a relatively young tree (approximately 25-30 years based on ring count). The surface oxidation and checking suggest it has been air-dried for 1-3 years.
Sustainability Status
Abundant; Not CITES listed or on the IUCN Red List. Widely available with FSC certification from sustainably managed forests.
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can be prone to splintering and breakout during machining. It holds nails and screws well but may require pre-drilling near ends to prevent splitting.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut. Known for an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. Can have high resin content which might gum up sandpaper or saw blades.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and clear coats well, though a sanding sealer or wood conditioner is recommended to prevent blotchiness. Spar varnish or polyurethane is preferred for durability.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct contrast between earlywood and latewood, the reddish heartwood core, the tight concentric growth rings, and the specific checking pattern are classic indicators of Douglas Fir.