Properties

Douglas fir is North America’s most plentiful softwood species, accounting for one fifth of the continent’s total softwood reserves.

Not only is it plentiful, it’s dimensionally stable. While all lumber benefits from some degree of “seasoning,” i.e. letting it adjust to the humidity conditions of its surrounding atmosphere before it’s installed, Douglas fir seasons well in position and can be cut, nailed and fastened in “green” then allowed to air dry during construction. When dry, it retains its shape and size with minimal seasoning checks and raised grain.

Uses

Designers appreciate the rich visual quality of Douglas fir texture and grain as well as its response to fine craftsmanship and finishing. A favorite wood for custom cabinets, furniture and millwork, it works easily and resists wear. And its characteristics make it ideal for joinery: doors, window and door casings, mantels, stairs and baseboards.

Douglas fir’s strength, beauty and old-fashioned toughness are all prime reasons for choosing this long-lasting wood for flooring. Douglas fir provides a tough surface that will hold a finish, maintain its appearance under extreme wear and remain level without cracking, scuffing or splintering.

Additionally, Douglas fir has an excellent performance record when used in exposed applications for exterior trim without ground contact.

Appearance

Douglas fir’s light rosy color is set off by its straight and handsome grain pattern and will “redden” over time when exposed to light. It is also tight knotted and close-grained, adding the bonus of beauty to its structural capabilities.

Sustainability

Douglas fir timberlands are the most productive softwood timberlands in the U.S in terms of volume per acre. There are approximately 34.6 million acres of Douglas fir managed primarily in natural stands, on long rotations. Douglas fir, along with the species combination of Douglas fir, and Western Larch account for more than 55 percent of all Western softwood produced annually.

Resources

Western Wood Products Association: Douglas Fir & Western Larch