Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii
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.
Botanical Profile
Pseudotsuga menziesii is a large evergreen conifer native to western North America, reaching 60-70 meters or more in coastal regions. It features soft, flat needles and distinctive pendulous cones with three-pointed bracts. The species includes coastal and interior varieties with different growth characteristics.
Physical Properties
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 Advice
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
Historical Context
Douglas Fir has been the backbone of Pacific Northwest forestry since the 19th century. It was used for ship masts, heavy timbers, and construction. Today it remains the primary species for dimension lumber in North America, with extensive sustainable harvesting from managed forests.
Technical Specs
Sustainable, major commercial species with well-managed forests