Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable; good resistance to decay but susceptible to insect attack
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Grain Pattern
Straight to wavy, flat-sawn with prominent growth rings and earlywood/latewood contrast
Color & Appearance
Heartwood is yellowish-brown to reddish-brown; sapwood is lighter cream. Aged surfaces show a greyish-brown oxidation/weathering (patina).
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable; good resistance to decay but susceptible to insect attack
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 - $6.00 per board foot (standard grade) to $12.00+ (reclaimed/clear vertical grain)
- Wood Age Estimate
- Reclaimed/Salvaged: Surface oxidation suggests the wood is approximately 20-50 years old, likely from a barn or residential structure.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed in CITES or IUCN Red List; widely available and FSC certified
Common Uses
Construction framing, flooring, cabinetry, veneer, and heavy structural timbers
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
Workability
Generally works well with machine tools; can experience tearout during planing if grain is wavy; easy to glue and finish.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or polyurethane; requires a wood conditioner if staining due to uneven absorption between growth rings.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous/sweet scent when freshly cut; exceptionally high strength-to-weight ratio for a softwood.
