Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Pacific Northwest, North America
Domestic Softwood
$
Douglas Fir is one of the strongest and most versatile softwoods available. Widely used for framing, beams, and structural applications, it offers excellent strength-to-weight ratio and availability.
Janka Hardness
660
Density
34 lbs/ft³
Moisture
12-15%
Fire Rating
Class C
Durability
Class C - 8-12 years (treated)
Price Range
$
Appearance
Light reddish-brown to yellowish tan
Key Characteristics
- •High strength-to-weight ratio
- •Straight, tight grain
- •Good dimensional stability
- •Excellent structural properties
- •Widely available
- •Easy to work with
Common Applications
- •Framing lumber
- •Structural beams
- •Posts and columns
- •Plywood
- •Engineered lumber
- •General construction
Maintenance Requirements
Requires treatment for outdoor use. Pressure treating or coating recommended for exterior applications. Minimal maintenance for interior use.
Advantages
- Excellent strength
- Affordable pricing
- Widely available
- Consistent quality
- Good dimensional stability
- Sustainable domestic sourcing
Considerations
- Requires treatment for outdoor use
- Lower natural decay resistance
- Can crack or check outdoors
- Not ideal for ground contact
- May need regular sealing