Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Strongly defined straight grain with a prominent transition between earlywood and latewood; vertical grain (quarter-sawn) orientation visible on the face
Color Description
Light brown to reddish-brown heartwood with a yellowish-white sapwood; distinct dark rings of latewood provide a high-contrast pinstripe appearance; tends to redden with age and light exposure
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot and decay but is susceptible to insect attack
Common Uses
Heavy structural lumber, flooring, windows, doors, interior trim, and plywood manufacturing
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain/Clear being highest value)
Wood Age Estimate
30-50 years; signs of oxidation, greyish surface patina, and accumulated workshop dust suggest aged stock rather than fresh lumber
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available with FSC certification; not listed on CITES appendices
Workability
Works well with machine tools but can be prone to splintering and tearout; sands smoothly but requires sharp blades to avoid crushing the soft earlywood fibers
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous/sweet scent when freshly cut; excellent strength-to-weight ratio; high resin content can occasionally cause 'bleeding' through finishes
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer are best for protection; a sanding sealer or pre-stain conditioner is recommended to prevent blotchiness when staining
Identification Confidence
High; the tight, straight vertical grain lines combined with the visible latewood/earlywood contrast and reddish hue are diagnostic of old-growth or high-grade Douglas Fir