Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America, Pacific Northwest
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight grain with visible growth rings showing a mix of flat-sawn cathedral patterns and tight vertical grain.
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown to yellowish-brown with distinct contrast between earlywood and latewood rings, darkening slightly upon light exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- 3.00 to 6.00 USD per board foot
- Wood Age Estimate
- Relatively recent stock, likely less than 5 years old based on clean, unweathered surfaces.
- Sustainability Status
- Not listed on CITES or IUCN red list; widely available from sustainably managed forests and plantations.
Common Uses
Construction framing, plywood, flooring, heavy timber construction, doors, and window frames.
Geographic Origin
Western North America, Pacific Northwest
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 if tools are not sharp.
Finish Recommendations
Takes stains, varnishes, and paints well, though pre-conditioning may be needed for uniform stain absorption on the contrasting grain.
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, distinct resin canals, and a characteristic pleasant, slightly sweet resinous scent.
