The flexibility, warmth and durability of wood have always been part of its appeal. Limitless customizable attributes and so many different grains and textures make it possible to appreciate your piece for years to come. With little effort, wood furniture can last a lifetime, maybe even several lifetimes. Furniture crafted from wood is carefully dried, retaining just enough moisture for the furniture to properly acclimate to the relative humidity. The wood in furniture continues to exchange moisture with the air, shrinking and expanding in response to changes in relative humidity. Its natural response to extremely dry air is to lose moisture and shrink a bit, but this will correct itself as the relative humidity rises, and the wood absorbs enough moisture to expand slightly.
On the other hand, if you don't have an air conditioner or dehumidifier, the relative humidity may get too high. Parts of your wood furniture may absorb excess moisture from the air and expand. This too, will correct itself as your home's relative humidity decreases. The furniture's quality and sturdiness are not affected by these natural changes.
