Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with distinct growth rings and a high contrast between earlywood and latewood; consistent vertical grain pattern with some cathedral-like characteristics on tangentially sawn faces.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a light reddish-brown to orange color; sapwood is a yellowish-white. The color darkens significantly with age and light exposure, taking on a deeper orange-red patina.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers moderate resistance to rot and decay, though lower resistance to insect attack compared to Western Red Cedar.
Common Uses
Structural timber/framing, heavy construction, flooring, cabinetry, interior millwork, decking, and exterior siding.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.50 - $4.00 per board foot for dimensional lumber; up to $8.00+ for clear vertical grain (CVG) grades.
Wood Age Estimate
The rough-sawn texture and oxidation suggests a sample that has been air-dried or stored for 5 to 10 years, though the log itself likely came from a 40-60 year old second-growth tree.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and harvested from managed forests; FSC certification is commonly available.
Workability
Generally easy to work with hand and machine tools, though the hard latewood bands can cause uneven sanding and knife dulling; holds glue and screws well.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; high strength-to-weight ratio; susceptible to splintering and tearout due to the disparity between earlywood and latewood hardness.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains and finishes well, though a wood conditioner/sealer is recommended to prevent blotchiness; oils and clear polyurethanes highlight the natural orange-red tones.
Identification Confidence
High; the prominent latewood growth rings, reddish-orange hue, and rough-sawn structural appearance are textbook characteristics of Coastal Douglas Fir.