WoodSwatch · The Wood Ledger
White Fir
Abies concolor
Also known as: Colorado Fir, Concolor Fir, Colorado White Fir
Technical Spec Sheet
2026-07-14
Reference grain swatch
- Janka Hardness
- 410 lbf (1,824 N)
- Avg. Dried Weight
- 420 kg/m³ (26 lb/ft³)
- Specific Gravity
- 0.36
- Type
- Softwood
- Grain
- Straight, even
- Texture
- Fine to medium
- Durability
- Low to moderate, not naturally durable outdoors
- Region
- North America
- Sustainability
- Sustainable — Not listed in CITES, sustainably managed in most areas
Overview
White Fir is a western North American softwood appreciated for its nearly white color and ease of working. Often marketed as a substitute for Ponderosa Pine, it serves well in interior applications where its attractive appearance and workability are valued over strength and durability.
White Fir has a density of approximately 420 kg/m³ when dried and a Janka hardness of 410 lbf. The wood is nearly white to pale yellow with straight, even grain and fine to medium texture. Specific gravity is 0.36, making it one of the lighter softwoods.
Workshop Notes
Blunting Effect
Low - gentle on cutting tools
Gluing
Glues well with standard wood adhesives
Finishing
Takes stains and finishes evenly due to low resin content
Steam Bending
Poor - insufficient strength for steam bending applications
Scent
Mild, slightly resinous aroma when worked
Assessment
Strengths
- Lightweight and easy to work
- Good dimensional stability
- Attractive pale color
- Low resin content
Weaknesses
- Limited durability
- Lower strength than many softwoods
- Not suitable for outdoor use
- Can be knotty
Common Uses
Construction lumber · Interior trim · Millwork · Boxes and crates · Pulpwood