About Vertical Grain Fir

Sources

• Most vertical grain fir wood products come from the Douglas fir tree, which is not a true fir. Some vertical grain fir may be labeled “white fir,” which is cut from white fir -- a true fir tree -- or any of the six other native fir species: noble, corkbark, subalpine, Pacific silver, grand fir and California red fir. Vertical grain fir is harvested by sawing across the tree’s growth rings so that the wide surface of the lumber is at right angles to the rings.

Grades

• For highly visible projects like cabinets and flooring, look for VG fir in the “Finish” or “Select” category. These two grades include clear or nearly clear lumber. Higher grades of vertical grain fir are less widely available and more costly than lower grades. For less obvious uses such as shelving or sheathing, look for fir labeled “Commons” or “Alternate Boards.” This grade designation is usually stamped on the back or the ends of the wood. Lower grades of VG fir wood products may also be used in siding and paneling.

Floors and Stairs

• Vertical grain fir offers high wear resistance and less warping and shrinking than other lumber for floors, especially porch floors. Outdoor stairs built with vertical grain fir cut from the trees’ heartwood splinters less and resists warping and decay. VG fir doesn’t expand and contract as much as flat grain wood in moist conditions, so porch floors are less likely to buckle or warp. Douglas fir vertical grain wood specifically cut for flooring is usually labeled “C & BTR” flooring and is available in both high and low grades, which allows homeowners to select flooring according to intended use and budgetary considerations.

Doors and Windows

• Straight grained wood is often used for windows because it reacts less to moisture and temperature extremes. High-grade vertical grain fir is often free of knots that can blemish the smooth surface of the wood. Exterior doors and wood trim made with VG fir take paint and varnish well. Where cost is not a problem, solid interior doors made with high-grade vertical grain firs last longer than hollow core doors made of thin veneers.

Paneling and Furniture

• A softwood vertical grain firs take well to complex wood projects, such as custom furniture and cabinetry, as well as fine millwork, according to the Western Wood Products Association. The dense grain is useful for kitchen cabinets and furniture, where its uninterrupted vertical lines and subtle, reddish undertones are more visible. VG veneer or solid wood paneling resists swelling, cupping and bowing. Lower grades are knottier, adding texture to paneling in dens and informal areas of the home.