Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight with prominent, wavy cathedral figure on flat-sawn surfaces; coarse texture with distinct growth ring contrast between earlywood and latewood.
Color Description
Light reddish-tan to yellowish heartwood with lighter earlywood bands; sapwood is nearly white. Over time, it darkens to a warm, orangish-brown patina when exposed to light.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot and decay but is susceptible to insect attack if untreated and used outdoors.
Common Uses
Structural framing, heavy timber construction, flooring, cabinetry, veneer, and trim work.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $7.00 per board foot depending on grade and whether it is reclaimed old-growth.
Wood Age Estimate
Old-growth or reclaimed; the tight growth rings and weathered surface patina suggest the sample is likely 50-80+ years old, potentially salvaged from a previous structure.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and harvested, frequently FSC certified; sustainable due to massive reforestation programs.
Workability
Generally works well with hand and machine tools, though latewood can be hard and causes brittle tearout. Glues and finishes well, but can be prone to splitting when nailed.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; high strength-to-weight ratio for a softwood; prominent 'abrupt transition' in growth rings.
Finish Recommendations
Drying oils, polyurethane, or shellac; use of a wood conditioner/pre-stain is highly recommended to prevent blotchiness due to varying density in growth rings.
Identification Confidence
High; the sharp contrast between the light earlywood and dark latewood, along with the specific cathedral grain shape and nail holes, is diagnostic of Douglas Fir.