Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight, tight vertical grain; characteristic of quarter-sawn or rift-sawn lumber. Fine, even texture with prominent growth rings.
Color Description
Light reddish-brown to orange heartwood with thin, yellowish-white sapwood. Minimal luster; color tends to redden or darken significantly with exposure to UV light over time.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; generally resistant to rot and decay but susceptible to insect attack. Fair stability in outdoor environments.
Common Uses
Heavy construction, veneer, plywood, flooring, window frames, door manufacture, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest to British Columbia).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$10.00 - $18.00 per board foot for high-grade Vertical Grain (CVG) stock.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern commercial lumber (estimated 1-5 years post-processing based on lack of heavy oxidation or patina) from a mature old-growth or slow-growth tree given the tight ring spacing.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available with FSC certification.
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can be prone to splintering or 'shelling' of the latewood rings. Glues and finishes well but may require a sanding sealer to prevent uneven staining.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when worked; high strength-to-weight ratio; susceptible to pitch pockets.
Finish Recommendations
Clear polyurethane or lacquer to highlight vertical grain. If staining, use a pre-stain conditioner to avoid blotchiness between earlywood and latewood.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct reddish-tan hue combined with the very tight, parallel vertical grain and typical softwood latewood/earlywood contrast identifies this as high-grade Douglas Fir.