Oregon, also commonly known as Douglas Fir is native to North America. Now grown in commercial plantations in Australia, New Zealand, Europe and South America it is a sustainable timber source.
A non treated softwood suited only to above ground applications. Oregon is rated medium strength AS/NZ 2878 class S5 in both seasoned and unseasoned forms. It has low shrinkage but its high resin content makes it susceptible to some ridging.
Oregon has a distinctive appearance, blonde to brown in colour with dark growth rings. It has a course texture and a relatively straight grain. It is a fragrant timber with an aromatic balsam scent. It is supplied in green form but dries quickly in a sheltered environment with minimal movement or fault.
As a softwood it is light weight and easy to work. It has many applications in building and joinery. Available in long lengths it is often used for verandah posts in protected areas. It is does not take timber preservative well and although resinous, is non termite resistant.
Application & Attributes
Oregon in its green state should be kept in a protected environment whilst drying. Exposure to harsh environmental conditions during the drying period may result in defects such as twisting, cracking, cupping and discoloration.
In preparation for painting or staining scrape of any crystallised resin that may have formed during the drying. Paint and maintain all surfaces including cut ends in accordance with the Recommended painting instructions. Oregon verandah posts should be mounted on stirrups during installation to prevent water pooling minimising the risk of fungal decay. Care is highly recommended to maximise the life of external Oregon products.
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