Heavy timber construction for residential and commercial structures brings many advantages over cement and steel builds, including its strength, natural beauty, and sustainability. But not all timbers are created equal: To find the ideal mix of load-bearing strength, attractive grain and color, stability, and availability, we need only look to the Douglas fir.

Native to the Pacific Northwest, Douglas fir can grow up to 300 feet tall with a 6-foot diameter, with one tree often yielding thousands of board feet. Here are six reasons why this conifer is the first choice of architects, engineers, and craftsmen in timber construction:

1. Strength & Durability: Douglas fir is a high-density wood with an exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, making it ideal for structural applications such as beams, joists, and columns. Because of its high density, it is resistant to damage and scratches, plus will resist rot and decay for decades. It is also averse to damage by insects, making it a perfect choice for outdoor, weather-exposed applications.
2. Dimensional Stability: Renowned for its ability to withstand large ranges in temperature and humidity, Douglas fir’s resistance to warping and shrinking/expansion is crucial for maintaining the integrity and structural performance of heavy timber construction over time.
3. Workability: Douglas fir is relatively easy to work with, allowing for precise cutting, shaping, drilling, and joining during construction. This workability enhances the efficiency of building processes, especially in crafting large, intricate timber components.
4. Aesthetic Appeal: With its reddish-brown heartwood and a lighter-colored sapwood, Douglas fir is naturally striking, both for interiors and exteriors. The wood has attractive, uniform graining for visual interest — many designers choose to apply only a clear natural oil finish to showcase its inherent beauty, particularly in contemporary design applications. If desired, Douglas fir also holds paint and stain well.
5. Availability & Sustainability: Douglas fir is widely available in North America. It is sustainably harvested from carefully managed forests, making it a preferred choice for environmentally conscious construction projects.
6. Fire Resistance: While not entirely fireproof, Douglas fir has a natural resistance to fire due to its density and minimal resin content. This can provide additional safety benefits in construction applications where fire resistance is a concern.

The Naturally Superior Choice

Over the years, many types of wood have been used for timber frame construction, most notably the American chestnut until the early 1900s, when an invasive blight reduced their numbers nearly to extinction. And while oak and white pine are now often cited as desirable wood types for timber frame use, Douglas fir is the superior choice thanks to its strength, stability, and availability.

To learn more about the advantages that Douglas fir provides, and to inquire about its use on your next project, contact the experts at Mid-Atlantic Timberframes.