How does environment affect my wood furniture?
Each piece of solid oak and maple furniture is a one-of-a kind and responds to changes in temperature and humidity. Wood is dried to retain just enough moisture for the furniture to acclimate to the relative humidity in your home. The wood in furniture shrinks and expands in response to changes in relative humidity. Halves of an extension table may part slightly or a few small cracks may appear. This will correct itself as the moisture rises and the furniture expands. Use a humidifier in winter and an air conditioner in summer if possible. Avoid placing furniture directly in front of radiators, heat runs or fireplaces. Don't expose hardwood furniture to continuous direct sunlight. Draw the curtains occasionally. Store leaves as close as possible to the table so they are exposed to the same environment.