Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Very prominent, wavy, and irregular growth rings with a distinct transition from earlywood to latewood. The sample displays a flat-sawn end grain perspective with non-linear, rippled ring growth.
Color Description
Light brown to yellowish heartwood with a slight reddish tint. Sapwood is a lighter white to pale yellow. Darker latewood bands create high contrast. It tends to darken or redden over time with UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable - Resistant to decay but susceptible to insect attack. Moderately resistant to rot when used in exterior applications compared to other softwoods.
Common Uses
Structural construction, heavy timber framing, flooring, plywood, veneer, and boat building. High strength-to-weight ratio makes it a preferred dimensional lumber.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest) and coastal regions from British Columbia to California.
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$1.50 - $4.00 per board foot depending on grade and region; vertical grain (VG) boards command higher prices.
Wood Age Estimate
Modern/Fresh - Based on the light color, lack of significant oxidation/patina, and the rough tool marks visible on the cut edges.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN). Widely available through FSC certified sources and sustainable forestry practices in North America.
Workability
Generally easy to work with both hand and machine tools, though the hardness difference between earlywood and latewood can cause 'washboarding' during sanding and tearout when planing.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous, sweet odor when freshly cut. Excellent stiffness-to-weight ratio. Known for high tannin content which can cause staining if in contact with ferrous metals.
Finish Recommendations
Responds well to most finishes; however, the use of a wood conditioner is recommended before staining to prevent blotching due to varying density in growth rings. Polyurethane or lacquer are common.
Identification Confidence
High - The species is clearly identifiable by the wide, distinct latewood bands, the specific wavy ring morphology typical of young growth Douglas Fir, and the characteristic pinkish-yellow hue.