Douglas Fir's light rosy color is set off by its remarkably straight and handsome grain pattern. The wood will "redden" over time when exposed to light. However, it responds admirably to sharp power tools and will machine to an exceptionally smooth, glossy surface. Douglas Fir paints easily and can hold all types of stains and finishes.
Many designers and consumers agree the aesthetic appeal of clear, light, straight, vertical-grain Douglas Fir is unsurpassed among the world's softwood species. The highest grade categories include the grades for clear and nearly clear lumber in either vertical or flat grain. Clear & Shop grades of Douglas Fir are recommended for interior doors, trim and cabinet work where the finest appearance is important.
Douglas Fir is also excellent where fine appearance in a knotty material is required, such as for soffits, fascia, cornices, shelving or run-to-pattern for siding and paneling. Depending on the criteria for the application, other grades in knotty products are used primarily in housing and light construction where wood is exposed for its beauty and character (e.g. exposed timbers, shelving, paneling, siding, fences, boxes).