Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Generally straight with a medium to coarse texture. The sample shows a flat-sawn appearance with prominent, alternating bands of light-colored earlywood and darker, reddish-brown latewood, creating a characteristic feathered or cathedral pattern on the face.
Color Description
Heartwood is typically a light reddish-brown, while the sapwood is yellowish-white. The color tends to darken or redden significantly over time with exposure to UV light. It has a moderate natural luster.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers some resistance to rot and decay but is susceptible to insect attack. It is highly valued for structural stability.
Common Uses
Heavy structural construction (beams, glulam), flooring, veneer, cabinetry, window and door frames, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Native to Western North America, specifically the Pacific Northwest and the Rocky Mountains.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $7.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain/Clear grades are more expensive).
Wood Age Estimate
Modern sample; likely kiln-dried and recently milled based on the sharp edges, lack of oxidation, and clean surface texture.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern on IUCN Red List; widely available and frequently FSC-certified; a primary plantation species in North America and Europe.
Workability
Generally works well with both hand and machine tools, though the difference in hardness between earlywood and latewood can cause uneven sanding. It glues, stains, and finishes well, though a sealer is recommended for even staining.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous, sweet odor when worked. It has high strength-to-weight ratio and is prone to splintering along grain lines.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane or lacquer for durability in high-wear areas; wiping oils or shellac for decorative pieces. A wood conditioner/pre-stain is recommended to prevent blotching.
Identification Confidence
High. The prominent contrast between earlywood and latewood bands, the reddish-tan heartwood color, and the specific growth ring spacing are definitive indicators of Douglas Fir.