Maintenance Wood - a living material

Wood is a living material – even after felling – and is affected by air humidity and temperature. Wood used for furniture production is dried to achieve a balance with average indoor conditions, i.e. a living room temperature of approx. 20 degrees and air humidity of approx. 50%.
In Denmark air humidity fluctuates from the driest winter period to the dampest late summer period between approx. 40 and 65%, giving a variation in wood humidity from 8 to 13%, i.e. a difference of approx. 5%. Wood has the property of absorbing or releasing moisture depending on the circumstances. The wood therefore expands in damp periods and contracts in dry periods.

When the tree is reacting in this way, you will be able to see the gaps between the different solid wood components. Solid table tops can easily develop a slight undulation or visible warping cracks, which are small cracks between the veins of the wood. These have no effect on durability. The cracks will later close again as normal. If not, small cracks can be sealed with a suitable wood putty.

Every piece of furniture will be unique, because its grain pattern, texture and colour have been created – designed – by nature. And it precisely this which makes wood so fascinating and suitable for furniture manufacture. Thus, small differences in colour and texture cannot be regarded as faults but rather reflect the fact that each part of the furniture may be from a different cut from the tree trunk or from different trees. Trees have knots. This is not a fault in the wood but the natural boundary of a branch’s connection to the trunk.

Some woods undergo considerable colour changes after unpacking. This is due to processes initiated by sunlight. The more sun the furniture receives, the quicker it will change colour. If you wish to delay this process you should therefore avoid exposing your furniture to direct sunlight after taking it into use. Allow all surfaces stand uncovered for the first few months; in this way you avoid shadow-marks from dishes, vases etc.

Where can the furniture be used
If a table is exposed to uneven lighting conditions, it can be desirable to rotate it 180 degrees every so often so both ends receive equal quantities of light. If you want solid extension leaves to a table to change colour at the same rate as the table top, you must allow the table to stand with the extension leaves fitted. Sun and heat dry out the wood and can lead to cracking.

Solid wood furniture should not be stored in rooms where the air humidity and temperature are very variable, as wood adapts to its surroundings. So avoid unheated basements, lofts, outhouses and similar locations. Never use indoor furniture outdoors. Major variations from normal indoor conditions could lead to damage. We therefore recommend you obtain a hygrometer to check for air humidity.

Good advice – Solid wood
All cleaning and treatment should be done with the grain.
Avoid placing hot objects directly on the furniture.

The furniture must be protected with dish mats from heat, wet or coloured objects (which could rub off). Avoid cork dish mats. Damp can penetrate into the table.

When using sharp utensils at the table, always use a cutting board.

Damp is the worst enemy of wooden furniture, so mop up all spilt liquids immediately.

The table top should not be covered with airtight material such as plastic or oilcloth for lengthy periods (max. 12 hours)

Avoid placing furniture too close to radiators, wood stoves etc. Avoid too much direct sunlight.

In case of doubt ask your furniture dealer.

All the best with your new item.