When it comes to reclaimed lumber on the West Coast, two species dominate the conversation: Douglas Fir and Coast Redwood. Both have storied histories in California construction, both are widely available through reclamation, and both offer unique properties that make them valuable for specific applications. But how do you choose between them? This guide breaks down the key differences.
Origins and Historical Use
Douglas Fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) is technically not a true fir, but it has been the workhorse of West Coast construction for over a century. Old-growth Douglas Fir was the framing lumber of choice for warehouses, factories, schools, and homes built between roughly 1880 and 1960.
Coast Redwood (Sequoia sempervirens) is one of the tallest trees on Earth. Its naturally rot-resistant heartwood made it the premier choice for siding, decking, fence posts, water tanks, and any application exposed to weather and moisture. Old-growth Redwood lumber was commonplace in California homes through the mid-20th century.
Appearance
Reclaimed Douglas Fir typically shows a rich amber to caramel color with strong, straight grain patterns. Old-growth specimens can have growth rings as tight as 40 to 60 per inch, creating a refined linear appearance. The wood patinas to a deeper reddish-brown over time.
Reclaimed Redwood displays a remarkable color range. Heartwood from old-growth trees varies from light pink to deep cherry red to chocolate brown, depending on the tree's age, the position of the wood in the trunk, and the conditions of its later use. Grain is generally straight with relatively few knots in vertical-grain cuts.
Density and Strength
Douglas Fir is significantly denser and stronger than Redwood. Its hardness on the Janka scale is approximately 660 pounds-force, compared to about 420 for old-growth Redwood. This makes Douglas Fir the better choice for applications where strength matters most:
- Structural framing and beams
- Floor joists and rafters
- Heavy-duty flooring
- Stair treads and risers
- Workbench tops and tool surfaces
Redwood, while less dense, is exceptionally stable. It does not warp, twist, or shrink as much as many other species during seasonal humidity changes. This stability makes it ideal for:
- Exterior siding and trim
- Outdoor furniture
- Decking and pergolas
- Window and door components
- Interior paneling and casework
Rot and Insect Resistance
Here Redwood shines. The natural tannins and extractives in old-growth Redwood heartwood make it remarkably resistant to fungal decay and insect attack. Many original Redwood structures from the early 1900s remain in serviceable condition today, even after decades of weather exposure.
Douglas Fir is moderately durable but lacks the inherent rot resistance of Redwood. In exposed exterior applications, Douglas Fir typically requires a protective finish or a covered installation to achieve long-term service life.
Workability
Both species are pleasant to work with hand and power tools, but they behave differently. Douglas Fir is harder and can dull blades more quickly, but it holds detail well and takes a beautiful finish. Redwood is softer and easier to cut, plane, and sand, but it can be prone to fuzzy edges if tools are not sharp.
For nailing and screwing, Redwood accepts fasteners easily but may split if not pre-drilled near edges. Douglas Fir holds fasteners exceptionally well, contributing to its popularity for structural applications.
Sustainability Considerations
Both species are subject to harvest restrictions on living trees. Old-growth Coast Redwood is protected by extensive conservation laws, and only a small fraction of original old-growth forests remain. Old-growth Douglas Fir has likewise become rare in commercial harvest. This makes reclaimed sources especially valuable — using reclaimed wood lets you access the qualities of old-growth timber without contributing to the loss of remaining ancient forests.
Cost Comparison
In general, reclaimed Douglas Fir is somewhat less expensive per board foot than reclaimed Redwood, due to its broader availability in the reclamation supply chain. Premium clear vertical-grain Redwood, however, can command very high prices due to its rarity.
Which Should You Choose?
A few quick decision rules:
- Choose reclaimed Douglas Fir for structural applications, interior flooring, exposed beams, furniture frames, and any project where strength and density matter.
- Choose reclaimed Redwood for exterior siding, outdoor projects, applications exposed to moisture, fine cabinetry, and interior paneling where stability and color are priorities.
Of course, many of the most beautiful projects combine both species — Douglas Fir for structure and floors, Redwood for siding and trim. Visit our yard or contact our team to see current inventory of both species and discuss which option suits your project.