Comparisons of Redwood Vs. Douglas Fir Lumber

Redwood and Douglas fir are both popular choices of lumber. Significant redwood and Douglas fir growth can be found in the northwestern part of America. Both woods have advantages and disadvantages.

Facts

Thirty percent of conifer trees in the Forever Redwood forestlands are Douglas fir; they are one of the most prevalent species in the northwest forests of America. Redwoods have been a prized lumber in the Northwest for over 400 years. The wood of Douglas firs is usually light brown in color while redwoods can be brown to reddish brown.

Uses

Both redwood and Douglas fir are used in the construction of many furniture items. Douglas fir lumber is ideal for framing lumber and flooring, as is redwood lumber.

Features

Douglas fir is a straight-grained lumber that has a great resistance to decay. Redwood lumber is very stable and rather resistant to checking and splitting. It is also very insect repellant.

Benefits

Douglas fir is known for its great strength-to-weight ratio. Both types of wood do well outdoors in the rain and sun. Both types of lumber are also very light but durable.

Considerations

Douglas fir may be structurally stronger than redwood lumber, but it tends not to last as long. Douglas fir is a more economical choice, generally costing more than 50 percent less than old-growth redwood.

References

• About Redwood and Douglas-fir
• Douglas Fir
• Redwood