Douglas Fir Lumber & Plywood: What You Need to Know

At AIFP, we’ve got our finger on the pulse of the lumber industry. In today’s blog, our wood experts cover everything you need to know about Douglas fir lumber.

What is Douglas Fir Lumber?

Doug fir lumber is lumber derived from the Douglas fir tree, also known as Douglas Spruce or Oregon Pine, which is an evergreen conifer species native to western North America. As one of the highest-rated North American softwoods in strength-to-weight ratio and stiffness, Douglas fir lumber is often used as a building material in the construction and manufacturing industries. It has a warm tone, distinctive grain patterns and swirls, and tight knots, which culminate in a traditional looking wood that reddens slightly over time into a beautiful, rosy hue.

Where Does Douglas Fir Grow?

Douglas fir trees are native to western North America. Coastal Douglas fir trees typically grow as far north as central British Columbia and as far south as central California. Another type of Doug fir, the Rocky Mountain Douglas fir, can be found within the Rockies, as far north as British Columbia and Alberta and as far south as New Mexico. A third type is known as Mexican Douglas fir, which ranges as far south as Oaxaca. That said, coastal Douglas fir is preferred by most wood processors, as its stronger, stiffer, clearer, and easier to process.

What is Douglas Fir Used For?

You may recognize Douglas firs as one of several species used as Christmas trees, but Doug fir trees are also one of the most valuable and versatile timber resources in the country.

Because of its strength-to-weight ratio, Doug fir lumber is often used in component manufacturing, including structural components like laminated beams, trusses, doors, windows, and other light framing. In fact, it’s regarded by engineers and builders as a preferred choice for framing lumber in the North American housing market.

Doug fir lumber also features a distinctive grain pattern and eye-catching coloring, and is easy to fabricate, which makes it great option for flooring, decking, and furniture.

Douglas Fir Properties: Explained

Douglas fir accounts for about 1/5 of the continent’s total softwood reserves and is one of the most abundant species in North America. Here are some of the visual and working properties of Doug fir lumber.

Doug Fir Physical Properties

Douglas fir lumber is known for its strength and workability. It has good planing quality, good boring quality, good sanding properties, and does a good job holding nails and screws with both hand tools and power tools. It’s easy to dry, easy to stain, and is relatively durable. All these wood properties make it a great option for construction and manufacturing, as well as being an important species for plywood.

Doug Fir Visual Properties

Douglas fir lumber is generally straight grained with large knots and some spiral grains, which give it a traditional appearance. While all Douglas fir wood tends to redden slightly over time, the sapwood is typically yellowish white in color, while the heartwood is darker with an orange red to reddish-brown hue.

Is Douglas Fir Stronger than Pine?

Douglas fir is stronger than many types of pine, including white pine.

Is Douglas Fir Stronger Than Southern Yellow Pine?

While Douglas fir is stronger than most types of pine, it is considered slightly less strong than Southern yellow pine. That said, the difference in strength is negligible, especially when you consider that SYP wood is more prone to warping, expanding, and shrinking.

How Long Will Douglas Fir Last Outside?

Doug fir lumber is a moderately durable, with a natural decay resistance. That said, it should not be used in applications with prolonged ground contact without treatment. With proper treatment, Doug fir lumber can last for upwards of 35 years outside.

Where to Buy Douglas Fir Lumber?

At AIFP, we sell a full menu of Douglas fir products, including high-grade for component manufacturing, on-grade for things like framing, and low-grade for the industrial and agricultural sectors. We also sell Doug fir plywood, which is rated for both interior and exterior use. While Douglas fir wood can be more difficult to source, AIFP has a team of nine traders with decades of experience getting our customers the Doug fir lumber they need at a competitive price, exactly when they need it.

Contact AIFP Today for a Quote

Need a carload or truckload of Douglas fir lumber or other building materials? AIFP has got you covered. Our experienced traders leverage their market insights and strong supplier relationships to get you great deals on the highest-quality building materials. We even take care of the lumber delivery logistics! Contact us at 800-366-1611 today for a quote and to find out how our traders can help your business!