Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight to slightly wavy grain with a prominent, flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible in the center; medium to coarse texture with a distinct difference between earlywood and latewood.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light reddish-brown to orange-brown; sapwood is a yellowish-white. The color tends to darken and become more orange/red with age and UV exposure, with moderate natural luster.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot and decay, though it is susceptible to insect attack without treatment.
Common Uses
Structural construction, heavy timber framing, flooring, cabinetry, veneer, and trim work.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest through the Rocky Mountains).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain commands higher prices).
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively recent; likely modern dimensional lumber (0-5 years) based on the lack of deep oxidation, clean surface, and lack of historic tool marks.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available as FSC certified and considered a sustainable, abundant resource in North America.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can be prone to splintering and tearout during planing. It glues, stains, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when worked; high strength-to-weight ratio; characteristic 'abrupt' transition between light springwood and dark summerwood rings.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer are common for protection; penetrating oils work well but may accentuate the contrast between grain layers. A sealer is recommended before staining to prevent blotching.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the reddish-orange tint, the specific 'cathedral' figure of the flat-sawn latewood, and the coarse softwood texture is diagnostic of Douglas Fir.