Douglas Fir
Douglas Fir is one of the major species that has built America. If you have ever seen a 2x4 or any other dimensional framing material chances are you were looking at some species of fir tree. Fir trees are plentiful in the Pacific Northwest and provide one of the best sources of construction framing material available.
Douglas Fir is truly an awesome wood. If you know much about it you cannot help but admire it. This sturdy wood has long been the dominant resource for stud framing, truss construction, posts, and a host of other construction products. It owes this popularity to its amazing strength that increases with age.
Fir trees are extremely durable both in the forests and in framing. Their weight to strength ratio is unparalleled by any other species. These trees were designed to withstand the tremendous forces of alpine wind and snow, accounting for their strength.
Fir trees make up the majority of Christmas Trees in the Pacific Northwest due their symmetrical shape and limb growth, although the Douglas Fir is rarely ever used in it's natural state. Instead they are planted on tree farms where they are meticulously groomed and fertilized for years to produce the number one selling Christmas tree on the market.
The species flourishes in various forms at the upper latitudes of the United States and Canada. While it is primarily harvested for lumber and building products it does have the capability to become some very beautiful furniture and doors.
When finished with the proper stain it can produce a depth of grain that is mesmerizing.
Links on this precious resource of Douglas Fir: