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Douglas Fir

Pseudotsuga menziesii

Also known as: Douglas-fir, Oregon Pine, Columbian Pine

Technical Spec Sheet

2026-07-14

Douglas Fir wood grain

Reference grain swatch

Janka Hardness
660 lbf (2,936 N)
Avg. Dried Weight
510 kg/m³ (32 lb/ft³)
Specific Gravity
0.48
Type
Softwood
Grain
Generally straight, sometimes wavy
Texture
Medium to coarse
Durability
Moderate durability, heartwood resistant to decay
Region
North America
Sustainability
Sustainable — Sustainable, major commercial species with well-managed forests

Overview

Douglas Fir is one of North America's most important commercial softwoods, prized for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and versatility. It dominates the structural lumber market in the Pacific Northwest and is used for construction, plywood, and millwork. Despite its name, it is not a true fir but a distinct genus.

The heartwood ranges from orange to reddish-brown with pale yellow sapwood. It has a medium to coarse texture with generally straight grain. Dried weight averages 510 kg/m³ with a Janka hardness of 660 lbf. The wood is known for its strength, stiffness, and dimensional stability.

Workshop Notes

Blunting Effect

Moderate - resin can dull tools

Gluing

Good with proper surface preparation; resin may affect adhesion

Finishing

Takes paint and stain well; may need sealer for resinous areas

Steam Bending

Fair steam bending when green

Scent

Mild resinous scent when worked

Assessment

Strengths

  • Excellent strength-to-weight ratio
  • Quality structural timber
  • Good availability
  • Takes paint well

Weaknesses

  • Resin can complicate finishing
  • Can split when nailing near edges
  • Variable grain

Common Uses

Construction lumber · Plywood · Millwork · Flooring · Boats · Veneer