Douglas fir

Origin	West coast of North America, increasingly also Europe
Raw density	approx. 470-550 kg/m³
Durability class	3
Radial differential shrinkage	approx. 0.18-0.24 %
Differential tangential shrinkage	approx. 0.30-0.45 %
Wood color	yellowish to reddish, heartwood often reddish brown
Wood structure	distinctive annual rings, rich in resin
Use	Constructions, facades, terraces, furniture, interior fittings

Origin and character of the wood

Douglas fir originally comes from the west coast of North America, where it is one of the most important commercial tree species. It has also been cultivated in Europe since the 19th century and is becoming increasingly important economically due to its rapid growth and good wood properties. The wood combines strength, medium density and a natural, warm appearance. Especially the reddish heartwood is particularly popular and is considered decorative and versatile – both indoors and outdoors.

Natural strength and growth habit

The Douglas fir reaches heights of over 60 meters in its native country and is one of the largest conifers in the world. Its wood is known for its high load-bearing capacity and dimensional stability, which makes it a sought-after construction and building timber. Its relatively high resin content gives it a pleasant fragrance and natural resistance to moisture. This makes it suitable for outdoor use – provided the wood is installed and maintained professionally.

Structure, color and durability

Douglas fir wood has clear growth rings and a characteristic striping, which gives it a lively and warm appearance. The sapwood is light in color, while the heartwood darkens to a reddish brown with age. The natural durability is in the medium range; an appropriate surface treatment is advisable for outdoor use. Thanks to its stability, workability and attractive color, Douglas fir is suitable for decking boardsand decorative interior applications, provided that the lower durability class is accepted for outdoor use.

Sources:
Holz vom Fach,
Wikipedia

Teak decking boards 125mm

bis 240 cm Länge | FSC 100%

from 6,90 €

Teak decking boards, FSC 100%
Price from: € 130 per m2, resistance class: 1

Advantages: ✓ Best durability and dimensional stability ✓ Lowest risk of cracking and splintering

Disadvantages: ✗ Relatively expensive ✗ Not very long planks

Tip: Lay decking boards together.

Garapa decking boards finger-jointed 145mm

from 9,80 €

Garapa decking boards, FSC 100%
Price from: € 65 per m2, resistance class: 1-2

Advantages: ✓ smooth surface ✓ homogeneous, light color

Disadvantages: ✗ Ferrous materials lead to discoloration ✗ Tendency to warp if not screwed down

Tip: patio cleaning removes discoloration and
professional interim storage prevents warping.

Cumaru decking boards 145mm

from 11,85 €

Cumaru decking boards, FSC 100%
Price from: € 70 per m2, resistance class: 1

Advantages: ✓ best durability ✓ particularly robust and scratch-resistant

Disadvantages: ✗ Partly rough surface ✗ High force development

Tip: Sand the boards after the first weathering.