Shop Fir

Edensaw Woods is the leading supplier of high-quality domestic woods in Washington state. Our knowledgeable staff is here to help you choose the best fir domestic wood for your project needs. Domestic fir wood is primarily derived from Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) - the most important commercial species - and true firs such as grand fir (Abies grandis), noble fir (Abies procera), and white fir (Abies concolor). These trees are native to North America, including the Pacific Northwest and portions of the Rocky Mountains.

Fir is distinguished by its light reddish-brown to pale yellowish-brown color, as well as its straight grain and fine, even texture. This wood species is highly valued for its strength-to-weight ratio and durability, making it a popular choice for a wide range of applications.

Because of its exceptional strength and dimensional stability, Douglas fir is commonly used in structural projects. While it is moderately resistant to decay, it is often treated when used for decking, siding, and outdoor furniture to ensure maximum lifespan when exposed to the elements.

Structural Performance and Strength Metrics - Douglas fir is one of the strongest softwoods available in North America:

• Modulus of Rupture (MOR): This measures the bending strength (the load a wood member can withstand before fracturing). Douglas fir has a high MOR, making it superior for use in long-span beams, trusses, and headers where structural integrity is critical.
  
  
• Hardness: Fir has a Janka hardness rating of approximately 660 lbf. While a softwood, this density makes it highly resilient and capable of withstanding heavy loads in structural framing.
  
  
• Dimensional Stability: Kiln-dried Douglas fir exhibits excellent dimensional stability and resists warping or twisting, making it reliable for architectural components like window and door frames.
  
  

Fir is a relatively simple wood to work with because it machines, glues, and finishes well. Woodworkers value its adaptability and ability to produce intricate designs and finishes. It's also dimensionally stable, which means it resists warping or twisting, making it reliable for architectural components.

Clear Vertical Grain (CVG): The cutting method is essential for high-end Fir applications:

• Appearance: Clear Vertical Grain (CVG) Fir is produced by quarter-sawing the log, resulting in grain lines that run straight and parallel along the board's length. This creates an elegant, clean aesthetic that is highly desired for exposed millwork.
  
  
• Stability: CVG is the most dimensionally stable cut of Douglas fir. Its vertical grain structure minimizes expansion and contraction across the board's width, preventing the cupping and warping that can occur in less expensive flat-sawn lumber. This stability makes it non-negotiable for door and window casings and high-grade paneling.
  
  
• Clear Grade: The term "clear" means the lumber is free of knots and major imperfections, ensuring a smooth, uniform surface for clear finishes.
  
  

Fir's natural compounds require specific attention during finishing:

• Resin and Pitch: Douglas fir naturally contains pitch (resin), which can sometimes bleed through paint or light finishes, particularly in warm conditions. To prevent this, pitch streaks should be sealed with a shellac-based primer before painting.
  
  
• Staining: Fir's prominent grain can accept stain well, but uneven density between the earlywood and latewood can lead to a slightly striped appearance. A pre-stain conditioner is recommended for achieving a more uniform color.
  
  
• Exterior Finishes: While Fir is moderately durable, for outdoor use, it requires a protective finish. Use high-quality marine-grade sealants or penetrating exterior stains to maximize resistance to moisture and UV damage.
  
  

Fir is used in a variety of applications, including structural framing, flooring, cabinets, and millwork. It's a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor projects, demonstrating its versatility.

For all your high-demand building needs in the Pacific Northwest, look no further than Edensaw Woods (Edensaw.com), your expert local domestic & exotic supplier and local rough sawn & surfaced lumber supplier. From our accessible Port Townsend-Tacoma, Washington, USA, locations, we provide crucial lumber and wood products for cabinetmaking, marine construction, and general building projects to customers in Seattle-Port Townsend-Tacoma and the surrounding area. We specialize in supplying premium local rough sawn and surfaced lumber, alongside wood veneer, hardwood flooring, and specialty decking, ensuring you have the right material for every phase of your project. Our core domestic wood and lumber selection includes essential varieties like alder, ash, basswood, beech, and birch. Our premium stock features fine decorative hardwoods such as cherry, hickory, and walnut, and reliable construction softwoods like fir and aromatic tennessee cedar. We offer various maple options, including maple (eastern) and maple (western), and a comprehensive selection of oak options: red oak, red oak riftsawn-quartersawn, classic white oak, and premium white oak riftsawn-quartersawn, among many more. Learn about our wide array of products and services by reaching out via contact us.