Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii · Softwood
- Type
- Softwood
- Origin
- Western North America, primarily the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions.
- Hardness
- 660 lbf (Soft)
- Durability
- Moderately Durable
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Grain Pattern
Straight and tight vertical grain (quarter-sawn/rift-sawn appearance) with narrow, highly consistent growth rings visible on the face and edge.
Color & Appearance
Light reddish-brown to brownish-yellow heartwood with a distinct, lighter pale yellow-white sapwood. Darker latewood bands contrast sharply with the lighter earlywood. Darkens to a warm amber or deep reddish-brown patina over time with UV exposure.
Hardness (Janka)
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability & Decay Resistance
Moderately Durable
Value & Sustainability
- Estimated Market Value
- $3.00 to $6.00 per board foot depending on grade, vertical grain quality, and dimensions.
- Wood Age Estimate
- Estimated to be 30 to 50 years old based on the growth ring density and slight surface oxidation, potentially salvaged or old-growth depending on ring count per inch.
- Sustainability Status
- Not CITES listed and generally of least concern on the IUCN Red List. Widely available through commercial timber operations and certified sustainably managed forests (FSC).
Common Uses
Structural framing, heavy timber construction, plywood, flooring, doors, window sashes, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America, primarily the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the significant hardness difference between earlywood and latewood can occasionally cause uneven planing or sanding if tools are not exceptionally sharp.
Finish Recommendations
Accepts stains, varnishes, penetrating oils, and polyurethane very well. Pre-conditioning may be needed for even stain absorption due to density variations.
Notable Features
High strength-to-weight ratio, prominent contrast between earlywood and latewood, distinct resinous scent, and excellent structural integrity.
