Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight and uniform; this sample shows a mix of flat-sawn (cathedral/wavy) figure on the rails and vertical/quartersawn straight grain on the stiles. High contrast between earlywood and latewood rings.
Color Description
Heartwood is a light reddish-brown to orange-tan; sapwood is yellowish-white. It exhibits a low to medium luster and typically darkens to a more pronounced reddish-orange with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay but is susceptible to insect attack. Stable and strong for a softwood.
Common Uses
Interior and exterior doors, window frames, flooring, veneers, heavy structural timbers, and plywood.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest to the Rocky Mountains)
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$4.00 - $8.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain/Clear being most expensive)
Wood Age Estimate
The wood appears to be of recent manufacture (interiors/modern door construction), likely less than 10-15 years old, with minimal oxidation or patina visible.
Sustainability Status
Not listed on CITES Appendices or the IUCN Red List; widely available and frequently FSC-certified as it is a major commercial timber species.
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though the transition between soft earlywood and hard latewood can cause uneven sanding or splintering. Glues, stains, and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; has one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios of any softwood species. Resins can occasionally weep if not properly kiln-dried.
Finish Recommendations
Clear polyurethane or lacquer is recommended to protect the surface while showcasing the grain. Use of a wood conditioner/sealer is advised before staining to prevent blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High; the characteristic prominent latewood bands, reddish-tan hue, and application in a high-quality paneled door are classic diagnostic features of Douglas Fir.