Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America and the Pacific Northwest.
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable, with fair resistance to rot and weathering.
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with flat-sawn cathedral patterns visible in the growth rings.
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown heartwood with a paler yellowish sapwood, showing moderate natural luster.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable, with fair resistance to rot and weathering.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately aged, around 10-30 years, based on surface oxidation and minor weathering.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, generally considered sustainable with widespread plantation-grown availability and FSC certification options.
Common Uses
Construction framing, plywood, exterior decking, and heavy timber framing.
Geographic Origin
Western North America and the Pacific Northwest.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it has a tendency to splinter and can present challenges during planing due to the density contrast between earlywood and latewood.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, varnishes, and penetrating oils well, though exterior applications require UV-resistant finishes.
Notable Features
Known for an exceptionally high strength-to-weight ratio, distinct contrasting growth rings, and a subtle resinous scent.
