Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a medium to coarse texture. Flat-sawn surface shows clear transitions between earlywood and latewood, creating a characteristic feathered or cathedral pattern in wider boards.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a light reddish-brown to orange-brown. Sapwood is yellowish-white. The color tends to darken and redden significantly with age and UV exposure, especially in 'Old Growth' samples.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; demonstrates reasonable resistance to rot and decay but is susceptible to insect attack without treatment.
Common Uses
Heavy construction (beams, glulam, framing), flooring, cabinetry, plywood, trim, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $7.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain/Clear vs. Construction grade).
Wood Age Estimate
Indeterminate based on photo, but the rough-sawn surface and accumulation of dust suggest secondary processing or salvaged lumber stored for several years.
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed; classified as Least Concern by IUCN. Widely available with FSC certification; major timber crop in the PNW.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though it can be prone to splintering and tear-out. Glues and finishes well, but can be difficult to stain evenly without a pre-stain conditioner.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous/sweet scent when cut. Very high strength-to-weight ratio. High resin content can sometimes foul sandpaper or saw blades.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or clear polyurethanes work best. For a uniform stained look, a sanding sealer or gel stain is recommended to prevent blotching between growth rings.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; identifying based on the prominent latewood/earlywood contrast, typical reddish-tan color visible under the dust, and characteristic fibrous texture of construction-grade softwood.