Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
The grain is typically straight or slightly wavy with a very prominent, medium-to-coarse texture. Growth rings are conspicuous and show a sharp transition from light-colored earlywood to darker, reddish-brown latewood.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a yellowish-tan to light reddish-brown, while the sapwood is a paler cream color. It has a dull to moderate luster and tends to darken and redden significantly with age and exposure to UV light.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers moderate resistance to rot and decay, though it is susceptible to attack by insects such as termites.
Common Uses
Heavy structural construction (beams, glulam), flooring, plywood, veneer, millwork, and exterior siding. Often used in timber framing.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest) from British Columbia to California.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot depending on grade (Clear Vertical Grain is significantly higher).
Wood Age Estimate
The sample appears to be green or recently harvested (fresh cut), likely from a tree approximately 15-25 years old based on the visible growth ring count and width on the cross-section.
Sustainability Status
Not listed in CITES Appendices or on the IUCN Red List; widely available and frequently FSC certified as it is a major timber crop.
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though it can exhibit brittle characteristics when machining across the grain (tearout). Glues, stains, and finishes well, though it can be prone to resin bleed and uneven staining without a sealer.
Notable Features
Features a very distinct, sweet resinous scent when freshly cut. It has some of the highest strength-to-weight ratios of any softwood. Can cause skin irritation or respiratory issues in sensitive individuals due to dust.
Finish Recommendations
Resin-sealing primers or shellac are recommended if painting or high-gloss finishing to prevent pitch bleed. Penetrating oils, polyurethane, or lacquer all work well once the wood is properly sanded.
Identification Confidence
Medium-High; the distinctive contrast between earlywood/latewood rings, the reddish-tan hue, the fibrous bark remnants, and the typical structural end-grain appearance are classic indicators of Douglas Fir.