Douglas fir is a type of evergreen tree that is found in western North America. Douglas fir trees can grow up to 200 feet tall, and they have dark green needles that are 2-5 inches long. The branches of a Douglas fir tree are often covered in cones, and the bark of a Douglas fir tree is reddish-brown in color.
Douglas Fir timber is a popular choice for construction and carpentry. The wood is strong and durable, making it ideal for use in flooring, roofing, and framing. Douglas Fir is also used to make furniture, cabinets, and other household items.
There are a few different finishes that can be applied to this lumber, but the best option depends on the intended use. For example, a clear finish may be best for projects that will be visible, while a more durable finish may be necessary for projects that will be used outdoors.

List of the best finish for douglas fir
There are many different ways to finish a piece of Douglas fir. Some finishes are better than others, depending on the intended use for the wood. Here is a list of the best finishes for Douglas fir, based on durability and appearance.
#1. Minwax 356100000 One Coat Polyurethane, Quart, Gloss

Minwax wood finish is a brand of wood finish that is used to protect and enhance the appearance of wood. Minwax offers a wide variety of finishes, including clear coats, stains, and sealers. The brand is available in both water-based and oil-based formulas. Minwax wood finish can be used on both interior and exterior surfaces.
One of the best things about Minwax 356100000 One Coat Polyurethane, Quart, Gloss, is that it dries quickly. You can apply it in just one coat and get great results. This polyurethane is also water-based, so it’s easy to clean up. It also has a low odor, which is great if you’re working in a small space.
Technical specifications:
- Brand: Minwax
- Item Weight: 2.14 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 4.13 x 4.13 x 5.13 inches
- Color: Gloss
- Item Package Quantity: 1
Highlighted Key Features:
- Clean up easily: Minwax has introduced a new finish, Polyurethane, that is designed to be easy to clean. The finish comes in both gloss and satin sheens. It can be used on indoor and outdoor projects and is available in both quart and gallon sizes.
- ultra fast-drying: Minwax Polyurethane finish is a clear, water-based protective finish that dries quickly and resists damage from moisture, stains, and fading. It can be used on all types of wood, including furniture, trim, cabinets, and floors.
- non-ambering topcoat: this finish is a non-ambering topcoat that is available in both gloss and satin sheens. It is available in both water-based and oil-based formulas, and it can be used on both interior and exterior surfaces. Polyurethane finish forms a tough, clear film that helps protect against scratches, scuffs, and spills. It also provides a durable finish that can help extend the life of your furniture or woodwork.
Pros:
- One coat protection.
- Superior gloss and durability.
- Low odor and non-toxic.
- Non-yellowing.
Cons:
- Two coats are required to produce a heavy, durable finish.
#2. TotalBoat Gleam Marine Spar Varnish, Gloss and Satin Polyurethane Finish for Wood, Boats and Outdoor Furniture (Clear Gloss Gallon)

When it comes to wood finishes, TotalBoat has a wide variety of products to choose from. They offer both wiping and penetrating finishes that are designed to protect and enhance the natural beauty of wood. Some of their popular finishes include Crystal Clear, Tung Oil, and Wet Edge. All of their finishes are easy to apply and can be used on a variety of wood types.
The TotalBoat Gleam Marine Spar Varnish is a clear gloss polyurethane finish that can be used on wood, boats, and outdoor furniture. The Gleam Marine Spar Varnish dries quickly and provides a high-gloss finish that is both durable and weather-resistant. Additionally, the Gleam Marine Spar Varnish also comes in a satin finish for a more subtle look.
Technical specifications:
- Brand: TotalBoat
- Item Weight: 7.85 Pounds
- Product Dimensions: 7.4 x 6.7 x 6.6 inches
- Color: Clear Gloss
- Item Package Quantity: 1
Highlighted Key Features:
- waterproof finish: The TotalBoat Gleam Marine Spar Varnish is a waterproof finish that can be used on many surfaces, both above and below the waterline. It is available in both a gloss and satin finish and can be applied by brush or roller. Gleam Marine Spar Varnish dries quickly and is resistant to both abrasion and UV radiation.
- transparent amber finish: iT is a transparent amber finish that protects and enhances wood surfaces in marine environments. Gleam is formulated with a high-quality resin system and UV absorbers to provide maximum protection against the sun’s damaging UV rays. The finish is easy to apply and dries quickly to a hard, clear film.
- durable spar varnish: Spar varnish is a type of marine varnish that is used to protect the wood from the elements. TotalBoat Gleam Marine is a durable spar varnish that can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. Gleam Marine is easy to apply and dries quickly, making it ideal for repairs or projects on a deadline. The varnish also produces a high-gloss finish that will keep your wood looking beautiful for years to come.
Pros:
- high-build polyurethane varnish.
- easy to use and produces a high-quality finish.
- safe for both indoor and outdoor use.
- can be used on a variety of surfaces.
Cons:
- For heavy varnish build-up, it is not ideal.
#3. CrystaLac Brite Tone Instrument Finish Gloss Quart, Waterbased Polyurethane

CrystaLac wood finish brand is one of the most popular brands of wood finish in the world. The company has been in business since 1935, and they offer a wide variety of finishes for both indoor and outdoor use. CrystaLac is known for its high-quality products and its commitment to customer satisfaction.
CrystaLac Brite Tone Instrument Finish Gloss Quart, Waterbased Polyurethane is a high-quality, durable finish for musical instruments. It dries quickly and produces a clear, hard finish that helps protect your instrument from scratches and other damage. CrystaLac is also non-toxic, making it a safe choice for musicians of all ages.
Technical specifications:
- Brand: CrystaLac
- Item Weight: 3 pounds
- Product Dimensions: 7.4 x 6.7 x 6.6 inches
- Color: Clear Gloss
- Item Package Quantity: 1
Highlighted Key Features:
- Waterbased: CrystaLac is a water-based wood finish that is known for its excellent protection against wear and tear. It also has a beautiful glossy sheen that can enhance the appearance of your wood furniture or floors. CrystaLac is available in both a clear and tinted version, so you can choose the perfect color to match your décor.
- Super Hard: CrystaLac is a high-quality, super hardwood finish that can be used on any interior or exterior wood surface. It is easy to apply and provides long-lasting protection against moisture, fading, and staining. CrystaLac also enhances the natural beauty of wood, giving it a rich, lustrous finish.
- Clear Gloss Finish: it is a clear gloss wood finish that can be used on all types of wood surfaces. It is easy to apply and dries quickly. CrystaLac provides a durable, high-gloss finish that makes wood surfaces shine. It is also resistant to water and alcohol spills.
Pros:
- Crystal-clear finish.
- Non-toxic and safe for children’s toys.
- Dries quickly and is resistant to water and scratches.
Cons:
- takes time to get perfection.
#4. 1 gal Rust-Oleum Brands 230231 Clear Varathane, Diamond Water-Based Interior Floor Polyurethane, Satin

Rust-Oleum wood finish is a brand of wood finish that is used to protect and enhance the appearance of wood. Rust-Oleum wood finish is available in a variety of colors, and it can be applied with a brush or a rag. Rust-Oleum wood finish is easy to apply, and it dries quickly.
1 gal Rust-Oleum Brands 230231 Clear Varathane, Diamond Water-Based Interior Floor Polyurethane, Satin is an excellent floor polyurethane that can be used on both wooden floors and concrete floors. The polyurethane dries quickly and leaves a beautiful satin finish that is both durable and scratch-resistant.
Technical specifications:
- Brand: Rust-Oleum
- Material: Liquid
- Surface Recommendation: Floor
- Item Weight: 9.24 Pounds
- Liquid Volume: 128 Fluid Ounces
Highlighted Key Features:
- superior durability: Rust-Oleum Clear Varathane is one of the most durable clear finishes on the market. It is a water-based product that dries to a crystal clear finish. It is non-toxic and can be used on both interior and exterior surfaces. Clear Varathane is also easy to use and produces a high-gloss finish.
- abrasion resistance: It is an excellent finish for furniture, cabinets, and trim. The finish is abrasion resistant and will protect your wood from spills and everyday wear and tear. The finish is also available in a satin or gloss sheen, so you can choose the look that best suits your project.
- crystal clear finish: Rust-Oleum Varathane is a crystal clear finish that is perfect for woodworking projects. It provides a durable, protective finish that helps to keep your wood looking beautiful. This finish is easy to apply and can be used on a variety of surfaces.
Pros:
- Low odor and fast drying.
- Easy to use – just apply and let dry.
- Durable, water-based polyurethane formula.
- Prevents water damage and enhances the appearance of your floor.
Cons:
- extra care is required instantly after coating it.
#5. General Finishes Water Based High-Performance Polyurethane Top Coat Semi-Gloss Quart

General Finishes, a wood finishing company, offers a wide variety of finishes for woodworking projects. The brand has been around since 1952 and offers products for both professionals and DIYers. Some of the products offered include gel stains, water-based paints, oil-based paints, and polyurethane. General Finishes also offers a wide variety of colors to choose from, so you can find the perfect finish for your project.
General Finishes Water Based High-Performance Polyurethane Top Coat Semi-Gloss Quart is a high-quality top coat that provides a beautiful finish and protects your project from everyday wear and tears. This topcoat dries quickly and is easy to apply, making it a great choice for DIYers. It also comes in a variety of colors, allowing you to choose the perfect one for your project.
Technical specifications:
- Brand: General Finishes
- Material: Water Based
- Surface Recommendation: Floor
- Item Weight: 2.25 lbs/gallon
- Liquid Volume: 1
Highlighted Key Features:
- UV stabilizer: General Finishes is excited to introduce their newest product, a water-based high-performance polyurethane top coat with a semi-gloss finish. This top coat was designed with UV stabilizers to protect it from breaking down in sunlight, making it ideal for use on indoor and outdoor surfaces. It dries quickly to a hard, durable finish and is available in both quart and gallon sizes.
- durable: When it comes to floor finishes, there are many options on the market. Some people might choose an oil-based finish because they believe it is more durable. However, a water-based finish can also be very durable. General Finishes’ High Performance Polyurethane Top Coat Semi-Gloss Quart is a great example of a water-based finish that is tough enough to be used on floors. It dries quickly and has a beautiful semi-gloss sheen.
- Cleans up with soap and water: This General Finishes Water Based High Performance Polyurethane Top Coat Semi-Gloss Quart is Cleans up with soap and water. It dries quickly and leaves a beautiful finish. This product is great for furniture, cabinets, or any other project you are working on.
Pros:
- Dries to a hard, durable finish in as little as 2 hours.
- Prevents water damage and fingerprints.
- Comes in a variety of sheens, including semi-gloss.
- Provides superior scratch and stain resistance.
Cons:
- Interior use only.
How to choose the best finish for douglas fir
When it comes to selecting a finish for your Douglas Fir floors, you have a few different options. You can go with a natural oil finish, which will enhance the wood’s natural color and grain; a polyurethane finish, which will protect the wood and give it a high-gloss sheen; or a water-based sealant, which is environmentally friendly and easy to apply. Oil finishes contain a solvent that can damage the wood and stain it. For this reason, oil-based finishes are not recommended for use on Douglas Fir.
For a beautiful, natural look, choose a water-based sealant. This finish is ideal for Douglas Fir because it doesn’t contain solvents that can damage the wood and stain it. Water-based sealants are also environmentally friendly and easy to apply.
How to prepare for application:
1. Sand the wood with 150 grit sandpaper to prepare it for staining. If you don’t have enough space in your garage or shed, you can sand the wood at home.
2. Wipe the wood with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove dust and debris.
3. Wash your hands before you begin staining to prevent any wood-destroying bacteria from entering the wood grain during the application of the stain.
4. Shake the stain well before you begin applying to make sure that it is evenly distributed throughout the wood.
5. Apply a small amount of stain, using a clean rag or paper towel, and wipe it on the wood in a straight line across the grain.
6. Allow the stain to dry for at least 24 hours before you begin sanding.
7. Continue with the rest of the wood surfaces in the same way, adding a second coat of stain if necessary.
Conclusion
there are many different finishes that can be used on Douglas fir, but the best option is a clear coat of polyurethane. This will protect the wood from moisture and keep it looking beautiful for many years. Outside the home, in the summertime, a clear coat of polyurethane is an excellent choice for protecting Douglas fir from UV light.
It also protects the wood from being damaged by weather and insects. Clear coats are highly recommended for Douglas fir, because of their durability and protection. When choosing a clear coat for your home or business, make sure that it is made with the highest quality ingredients, so that your wood lasts as long as possible.