Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Primarily straight grain with prominent, slightly wavy growth rings. The sample shows a transition from vertical grain to flat-sawn towards the edges, exhibiting distinct latewood bands.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light reddish-tan to yellowish-brown. The sapwood is a paler cream color. It has a moderate luster and typically darkens to a more pronounced orange or reddish-brown with exposure to light and age.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack. It is highly valued for its structural strength-to-weight ratio.
Common Uses
Heavy structural lumber, flooring, cabinetry, veneer, joinery, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Coastal and Mountainous regions from British Columbia to California)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $12.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain/Clear grades are significantly more expensive).
Wood Age Estimate
Relatively young fresh-cut lumber, likely under 1 year since milling, evidenced by the light oxidation and lack of surface wear or deep staining.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES or IUCN Red List; widely available and frequently FSC certified as it is a major commercial timber crop.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can exhibit splintering and breakout during machining. It glues and finishes well but may require a sealer to prevent uneven staining.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when worked. Known for its exceptional stiffness and strength among softwoods. Can have high resin content which might gum up sandpaper.
Finish Recommendations
Clear polyurethane or lacquer to preserve color; a sanding sealer or pre-stain conditioner is highly recommended if applying dark stains to prevent blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct contrast between the light earlywood and darker, well-defined latewood bands, combined with the yellowish-pink hue, is characteristic of Douglas Fir.