Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America and the Pacific Northwest.
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with coarse, fuzzy texture resulting from rough sawing.
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown to yellowish-orange with distinct earlywood and latewood banding.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- Moderate, typically $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent, showing typical rough-sawn mill marks and minimal surface oxidation.
- Sustainability Status
- Generally sustainable, widely planted and harvested commercially, not CITES listed.
Common Uses
Construction framing, plywood, flooring, heavy timber construction, and exterior decking.
Geographic Origin
Western North America and the Pacific Northwest.
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though the sharp contrast in density between earlywood and latewood can occasionally cause tearing or uneven surfaces if tools are not sharp.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains and clear finishes well, though exterior applications require UV-resistant sealers to prevent graying.
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, distinctive spicy-resinous scent when freshly cut, and pronounced grain contrast.
