Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Primarily straight grain with a prominent flat-sawn cathedral pattern visible in the latewood transitions; exhibits characteristic medium-to-coarse texture.
Color Description
Heartwood ranges from light reddish-brown to a yellowish-tan. Sapwood is typically a lighter cream color. This sample shows significant orange-yellow oxidation beneath a weathered surface, likely darkening over time with light exposure.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers moderate resistance to rot and decay but is susceptible to insect attack if left untreated.
Common Uses
Heavy structural lumber, flooring, cabinetry, plywood veneers, trim/molding, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America, primarily the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot (Vertical Grain fetches higher prices than Flat Sawn shown here).
Wood Age Estimate
20-40 years; based on the oxidation color of the finish and the apparent wear and patina of the board surface.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available and frequently FSC certified due to extensive commercial harvesting and replanting.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though latewood/earlywood density differences can cause uneven sanding. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; known for high strength-to-weight ratio among softwoods; may exhibit splintering on edges.
Finish Recommendations
Oil-based stains, polyurethane, or lacquer. Requires thorough sanding to remove old oxidation/residue (as seen in the white scuffs) before refinishing.
Identification Confidence
High; the wide latewood bands, reddish-orange hue, and specific flat-sawn grain texture are diagnostic for Douglas Fir.