Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America, specifically the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable, with fair resistance to decay and weathering
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with pronounced growth rings, flat-sawn to rift-sawn appearance showing distinct earlywood and latewood contrast
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown heartwood with yellowish-white sapwood, darkening to a deeper amber or golden brown with age and light exposure
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable, with fair resistance to decay and weathering
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot for standard grades, potentially higher for old-growth or reclaimed stock
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 50 to 100+ years old based on the deep oxidation, patina, and historical tool marks
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES appendices, IUCN Least Concern, widely available through sustainable forestry initiatives and plantation growth
Common Uses
Construction framing, structural plywood, flooring, heavy timber construction, doors, window sashes, and boat building
Geographic Origin
Western North America, specifically the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though the significant hardness difference between earlywood and latewood can occasionally cause splintering or uneven planing
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, varnishes, polyurethane, and penetrating oils well; light sanding may be needed to smooth the transition between hard latewood rings
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, distinctive high-contrast grain lines, contains natural resins, and has a pleasant resinous scent when freshly cut
Notes
Main 3
