Like some multi-talented actor or athlete, someone who can do just about anything and do it well, Douglas fir is considered one of the finest, most adaptive building materials on the market today. With two known species, coastal and interior, Douglas fir is a type of coniferous softwood that has found a place in all aspects of residential and commercial construction.
Durable, rot resistant, flexible and having an excellent strength to weight ratio, Douglas fir is widely used in framing and as a structural timber – but is just as commonly used in the manufacture of decorative doors and window frames thanks to its tight, straight grain and its aesthetically pleasing golden-orange color.
The natural range of the Douglas fir extends all along the west coast of North America from British Columbia to California. Adapted to the west coast climate, which consists of mild and wet winters followed by sunny dry summers, the Douglas fir has evolved into a species of tree that is tall (up to 100 meters), straight and thick, making it an ideal source for milled lumber.
The second tallest conifer species in the world (after the California Redwood), Douglas fir trees are considered one of the world’s best timber producing species. A type of wood with excellent nail and plate-holding ability, Douglas fir is known for its flexibility and resistance to stress. Tests have indicated that homes with structural timbers composed of Douglas fir are more resilient to shifts caused by winds, storms and even earthquakes.
Whether used as a primary structural element or as a decorative feature Douglas fir lumber is an excellent choice in any construction project. It combines beauty with its tightly knotted and close-grained appearance with a flexible strength that makes it ideal for projects of any size.
