Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood (gymnosperm/conifer)
Grain Pattern
Straight, coarse grain with prominent, darker latewood bands; flat-sawn appearance showing distinct growth rings; consistent texture with little figure variation in this rough-cut state.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically light brown with a hint of red or yellow; sapwood is a paler cream color. The sample shows significant graying/silvering due to oxidation and UV exposure, common in aged rough-sawn lumber.
Hardness Rating
710 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to decay and rot, but susceptible to insect attack if untreated and in contact with ground.
Common Uses
Structural framing, heavy timbers, flooring, plywood, windows, doors, and exterior millwork.
Geographic Origin
Native to Western North America (Pacific Northwest, Rocky Mountains).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$2.00 - $4.00 per board foot for reclaimed or rough-sawn timber.
Wood Age Estimate
20-50 years; based on the deep oxidation (graying), surface texture degradation, and mechanical saw marks which suggest older industrial or agricultural salvage.
Sustainability Status
Abundant; Not listed on CITES or IUCN Red List; widely available as FSC-certified and from well-managed plantations.
Workability
Dries quickly with little warp; easy to work with machines but can be prone to splintering and tearout because of the density difference between earlywood and latewood. Grabs nails and screws well.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; has one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios of any softwood; earlywood and latewood transitions are very abrupt.
Finish Recommendations
Penetrating oils or film-forming finishes like polyurethane. Due to the high resin content and uneven density, a wood conditioner/sealer is recommended before staining to avoid blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High; the distinct growth ring pattern, abrupt transition to latewood, and the specific graying patina/rough-sawn texture are classic indicators of Douglas Fir timber.