Wood Care for Monsoon

Come rains and one needs to take extra special care of wooden furniture and products. Even though the monsoon is a season that we all look forward to, it does not bode well for wood and wood composites. Controlling moisture of utmost importance when it comes to wood as high moisture levels result in swelling of wood while low moisture levels result in split or cracked wood.

With respect to wood composites such as particle board or MDF products, their cross-sections or edges tend to attract moisture very easily. The side elevations/edges or exposed cross grains need to be covered. If the finish constitutes organic polish, one can seal the edges with oil. Alternatively for products without an organic finish, using lacquer and sealants to coat the product against moisture is an effective measure. In addition to lacquer, one should also use other protective coatings so that the moisture does not stand stationary on the product. MDF and other wood composites should be kept as far away from moisture as possible. At times, during monsoon, drawers and doors tend to get stuck – this is due to moisture, keeping drawers and kitchen cabinets well lubricated reduces the friction caused by the swelling of the wood. Ideally, the above measures should be taken before the onset of monsoon and serve as precautions. Ensuring that wood and wood composites are not exposed to the weather, and kept indoors, is the most basic precaution that one can take in this season.

Wooden products should not be in a wet or humid area. There is a misleading notion that sunlight is good for wooden furniture. In actuality, the combination of moisture and direct sunlight to one’s wooden products is not so good. Direct sunlight can turn light wood darker and tends to bleach dark wood. On the other hand, moisture plus a breeze takes the humidity out of the room/space and keeps one’s furniture maintained. Air movement dries the wood which is why a cross ventilated room with open windows is a good idea when it comes to ensuring proper care of wooden furniture. One should keep wardrobes and cupboards atleast six inches away from the walls since they tend to get damp. Placing camphor, naphthalene balls or neem leaves in the wardrobe keeps insects away.

High humidity can cause the growth of mould on wood; one can use a humidifier in the house so as to maintain the level of humidity. Depending on the species of the wood, certain products such as photo frames made out of sheesham or other small wood products tend to get deformations due to the increase in moisture content. If one can notice cracks or if the product feels a little heavier than usual or if the finish looks and feels a bit dull; it is advised to wrap these products and keep them in storage for about 2 odd months. When it comes to dusting of furniture, instead of using a damp cloth, one should use a soft cloth and feather.

There are three primary considerations when it comes to wood care for monsoon: Sealing, Ventilation and Covering. Another important aspect that should be mentioned is that it makes sense not to carry out any kind of renovations during this season.