General Description
Douglas Fir is a very popular softwood species due to its strength and versatility. We stock both timber from North America and Europe.
Whilst the two sources are of the same botanical species, they vary somewhat due to the climates in which they are grown. Stock from North America is slower growing (although the best 'old-growth' trees in America which used to be imported have Government environmental restrictions). It is mainly imported in grade #2 / 3 clears 85 / 15 which results in a small knot-content and we also have 2" x 4" & 2" x 5" in vertical-grain if required for doors etc.
Thicknesses kiln dried are 1", 1½", 2", 2½", 3" & 4". Also 6" thick just heat-treated for import regulations. Widths in packs are random 4" - 12". Lengths; mainly 7' - 16' but can be longer.
French and UK grown Douglas Fir is also offered in 'construction' grades and mainly used for exterior joinery (if preservative treated) or roof trusses etc.
Working Properties
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Machines fairly well |
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Good turning properties |
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Satisfactory for nailing, screwing and gluing |
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Stains and varnishes easily but takes paint poorly |
Physical Properties
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Quite variable in terms of color, weight and strength |
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Moderate to high strength |
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Moderate shock resistance |
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Somewhat brittle and susceptible to splitting |
Durability
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Highly resistant to mechanical abrasion |
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Highly resistant to chemical reaction |
Main Uses
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Plywood |
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Panelling |
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Trim |
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Cooperage |
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Tanks |
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Ship knees |
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Silos |
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Studs |
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Laminated beams and arches |
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Boxes, crates and pallets |
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Flooring |
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| Process |
Quality Scale
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| Machining |
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| Nailing |
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| Screwing |
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| Gluing |
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| Finishing |
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Douglas Fir also comes in a European species, all it's characteristics are closely similar to those of it's American cousin.
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