Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America (Pacific Northwest to Rocky Mountains)
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable (resistant to rot when dry, but susceptible to insect attack and weathering if untreated)
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Grain Pattern
Straight, vertical grain (quarter-sawn/rift-sawn appearance with tight, uniform growth rings)
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown heartwood with a paler yellowish-white sapwood, distinct contrast between earlywood and latewood bands, medium natural luster
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable (resistant to rot when dry, but susceptible to insect attack and weathering if untreated)
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate, typically $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade and vertical grain quality
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent harvest (kiln-dried or air-dried lumber, approx. 1-5 years old)
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed, IUCN Least Concern, widely available and sustainably managed through tree farms and certifications (FSC)
Common Uses
Structural framing, plywood, veneer, flooring, heavy timber construction, boat building, and doors
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest to Rocky Mountains)
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the strong contrast in density between earlywood and latewood can sometimes cause splintering or uneven planing if blades are not sharp
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, varnishes, and polyurethanes very well; conditioning may be needed for even stain absorption due to density variations between growth rings
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, distinct sweet resinous scent when freshly cut, excellent dimensional stability when properly dried
