Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America, stretching from British Columbia down through California, and the Pacific Northwest.
- Hardness
- 710 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable. Offers fair resistance to decay and weathering, though heartwood performs better than sapwood; susceptible to certain wood-boring insects if unprotected.
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Grain Pattern
Straight to slightly wavy grain with a relatively fine and uniform texture, primarily flat-sawn appearance.
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown to orange-brown heartwood with a lighter yellowish sapwood. Exhibits a medium natural luster and darkens to a deeper reddish-brown or grayish patina upon prolonged exposure to UV light and weathering.
Hardness (Janka)
710 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable. Offers fair resistance to decay and weathering, though heartwood performs better than sapwood; susceptible to certain wood-boring insects if unprotected.
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot depending on grade and dimensions.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be moderately weathered, roughly 5 to 15 years old based on surface oxidation, slight checking, and wear patterns.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices and generally considered of least concern by the IUCN. Readily available as commercially managed plantation and forest timber.
Common Uses
Construction framing, plywood, exterior decking, timber structures, doors, flooring, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America, stretching from British Columbia down through California, and the Pacific Northwest.
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though high-speed cutters are recommended to avoid tear-out on contrasting earlywood and latewood. Accepts glues, nails, and screws well.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, oils, and varnishes well. For exterior applications, penetrating oils or UV-resistant exterior finishes are recommended to prevent graying and moisture absorption.
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, distinct contrast between earlywood and latewood growth rings, contains natural resins, and has a mild, pleasant resiny scent when freshly cut.
