Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a prominent cathedral figure on the flat-sawn face; very distinct latewood bands creating high contrast stripes.
Color Description
Light brown to reddish-brown heartwood with a pale yellow-white sapwood; distinct color contrast between earlywood and latewood; darkens to a more orange-red hue with age.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay and rot but is susceptible to insect attack.
Common Uses
Heavy structural lumber, flooring, trim, cabinetry, veneer, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $7.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain typically costs more).
Wood Age Estimate
Newer sample, likely 1-5 years post-processing based on lack of significant UV oxidation and fresh surface texture.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though latewood can be hard and cause tearout during planing; glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when worked; excellent strength-to-weight ratio; high resin content can occasionally gum up sandpaper.
Finish Recommendations
Clear polyurethane or lacquer to highlight contrast; penetrating oils are also effective, though a sanding sealer is recommended to prevent blotching.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the specific cathedral grain pattern, the sharp transition between light earlywood and dark latewood, and the overall color is highly characteristic of Douglas Fir.