Douglas fir is recognized for its superior strength-to-weight ratio and has the highest ratings of any western softwood for extreme fiber stress in bending. It has the ability to season well in place because of its natural dimensional stability. Douglas fir works well with hand or power tools and can be painted or stained as needed. It has excellent ability to hold nails, screws, and appropriate glues as well. FOHC timbers are less likely to check and warp as they dry, since the grain doesn't have a heart center to shrink around.