Quick answer: Keep indoor humidity around 35–55%: run AC or a dehumidifier in muggy summers and a humidifier in dry winters. Keep pieces out of strong direct sun, use coasters, and refresh wax or oil once or twice a year.
Tables
Use coasters on a dining table.
Case pieces
Air out a sideboard now and then.
Shelves
Keep bookcases a few inches off outside walls.
Sun
Sheer curtains protect finishes from fading.
A month-by-month plan for the Piedmont
North Carolina summers are long and humid, and winter heat dries indoor air quickly. Solid wood expands and shrinks with these swings, so a little planning keeps drawers sliding and tops flat.
May to September
- Keep the air conditioning running on muggy days, even when you are away.
- Use a dehumidifier in basements, bonus rooms and closed guest rooms.
- If a drawer sticks, wait for a drier week before sanding; it often frees itself.
October to November
As windows open, humidity drops fast. Check that doors on cabinets and sideboards still close evenly, and refresh paste wax on high-use tops before the holidays.
December to February
Heat pumps and gas furnaces dry the air. Run a humidifier to stay above about 35 percent, and keep wood pieces away from floor registers.
March to April
Pollen season leaves a yellow film on everything. Dust with a soft dry cloth first, then wipe with a barely damp cloth, so the grit does not scratch the finish.
Placement tips
Keep a live-edge dining table out of direct afternoon sun and away from exterior doors. Shelving from our bookcases and shelves collection should sit an inch or two off outside walls to let air move behind it.
Frequently asked questions
Is slight swelling normal?
Yes — solid wood moves a little with the seasons.
How often should I wax?
Once or twice a year.
Can I use spray polish?
Avoid silicone sprays; a damp then dry cloth is best.
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