Douglas Fir (with spalting/water staining)
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains)
- Hardness
- 710 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Slightly to Moderately Durable; moderate resistance to rot, though visible water tide lines and fungal spalting indicate past moisture exposure.
Got a wood sample like this?
Identify any wood from a photo, free.
Grain Pattern
Straight, fine-to-medium grain with distinct latewood growth rings; subtle cathedral arches near the knot cluster at the base, displaying prominent dark fungal spalting/water-tide line figure across the face.
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown to pinkish-tan heartwood with yellowish sapwood along the outer edge. Shows dark grey-black spalting lines, water staining, and a weathered patina from age.
Hardness (Janka)
710 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Slightly to Moderately Durable; moderate resistance to rot, though visible water tide lines and fungal spalting indicate past moisture exposure.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 - $6.00 per board foot (standard lumber); higher for decorative spalted/reclaimed pieces ($8.00+ / bd ft).
- Wood Age Estimate
- 30-60 years old based on grain density, deep oxidation, surface wear, and historic spalting/staining patterns.
- Sustainability Status
- Least Concern (IUCN); widely available from sustainably managed forests with FSC certification.
Common Uses
Structural framing, heavy timber construction, flooring, plywood, subflooring, reclaim woodworking, and rustic furniture.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains)
Workability
Works easily with hand and power tools. Straight grain machines well, though latewood/earlywood density differences can cause uneven sanding or tearout near knots.
Finish Recommendations
Sand thoroughly to remove surface dirt while preserving spalting. Apply clear polyurethane, film-forming lacquer, or hardwax oil to highlight the contrast between the reddish heartwood and dark spalting lines. Seal knots with shellac before clear coating.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous, sweet pine-like scent when freshly worked; strong strength-to-weight ratio; dramatic dark spalting lines caused by fungal activity.
