Likely Douglas fir; alternatives include southern yellow pine or larch — Pseudotsuga menziesii

Likely Douglas fir; alternatives include southern yellow pine or larch

Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood (conifer)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Type
Softwood (conifer)
Origin
Western North America, especially the Pacific Northwest and interior mountain regions.
Hardness
620 lbf Janka; Soft
Durability
Slightly Durable; heartwood has limited decay resistance and is not highly resistant to prolonged weathering or insects.

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Grain Pattern

Predominantly straight, vertical grain with pronounced earlywood/latewood bands; likely rift- or quarter-sawn. No obvious decorative figure.

Color & Appearance

Heartwood is light orange-tan to reddish brown, with pale sapwood; strong contrast between growth bands and moderate natural luster. It generally darkens and reddens with age.

Hardness (Janka)

620 lbf Janka; Soft

Durability & Decay Resistance

Slightly Durable; heartwood has limited decay resistance and is not highly resistant to prolonged weathering or insects.

Value & Age

Estimated Market ValueNot an official valuation

Approximately $3–$8 per board foot for clear, dry stock; construction-grade material may be less.

AI estimate for general guidance only — not a professional appraisal. Actual value depends on grade, dimensions, condition, and local market demand.

Wood Age Estimate
The board appears relatively fresh or only lightly aged; visible oxidation and wear are insufficient to establish calendar age.

Common Uses

Framing, beams, decking, doors, trim, flooring, furniture, plywood, and general construction lumber.

Geographic Origin

Western North America, especially the Pacific Northwest and interior mountain regions.

Workability

Machines and hand-tools well, though resin, density variation, and pronounced latewood can cause uneven planing or fuzzy sanding. Glues and fastens readily; predrilling is useful near edges.

Finish Recommendations

Sand uniformly and seal resinous areas before applying oil, lacquer, shellac, or polyurethane; clear finishes emphasize the growth bands.

Notable Features

Strong growth-ring contrast, moderate weight, good strength-to-weight ratio, and a characteristic resinous odor when freshly cut.

Learn more about Likely Douglas fir; alternatives include southern yellow pine or larch in the Wood Encyclopedia
Identified September 1, 2026