Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Very tight, straight, vertical grain (quartersawn/rift-sawn orientation) with prominent and dense latewood bands (growth rings).
Color Description
Reddish-brown heartwood with a distinct warm orange hue. Sapwood is typically lighter cream to yellowish. The color will darken to a deeper reddish-brown over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
620 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack if left untreated in ground contact.
Common Uses
Structural framing, heavy timbers, flooring, window and door remains, boat building, and high-end joinery in vertical grain form.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $12.00 per board foot (Vertical Grain/Clear grade premium)
Wood Age Estimate
Modern sample (likely under 10 years), appearing to be a contemporary architectural or structural grade board with relatively fresh saw marks and minimal patina.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification; considered a sustainable resource.
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though the hard latewood bands can cause uneven sanding and can be prone to splintering or shelling if tools are not sharp.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; high strength-to-weight ratio; susceptible to 'shelling' where earlywood and latewood layers separate.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and clear coats well. Oil-based polyurethanes or penetrating oils are recommended to highlight the depth of the vertical grain. Pre-stain conditioner is advised if using dark stains to prevent blotching.
Identification Confidence
High. The characteristic reddish-orange hue combined with the very tight, distinct latewood growth rings typical of old-growth or high-grade vertical grain Douglas Fir is highly diagnostic.