Wood is a "living material" and did you know that under the influence of fluctuating humidity the wood can shrink or expand? When the humidity is too low the wood can shrink which -in extreme cases- can lead to damage of your guitar. Especially with acoustic guitars with solid wood parts (solid top or fully solid wood) we see these problems every year.
To prevent this, it is important to provide extra humidification when humidity levels are low. The D'Addario Humidifier is a simple way to do this; the plastic compartment contains a sponge. You moisten the sponge (preferably with decalcified water), put it back in the compartment and insert it into the soundhole of the guitar, clamped between the strings. This way the guitar can "drink" when and as much as it needs.
WHAT ABOUT HUMIDITY?
An ideal environment for a guitar has an air humidity of around 50%. When this percentage drops below 40% it is really necessary to intervene with humidification. Humidity in a room can be measured with a so called hygrometer, but you can also notice it on a guitar when it's too dry or when the humidity fluctuates a lot; do you notice that you suddenly have to "press the strings harder" or that the strings just touch the frets? Then the neck has worked a bit. "Sharp" fret ends is also such a signal. If you notice one of these or similar signals, take action in time, because you want to prevent more serious damage, such as a cracked top! In doubt? Feel free to give us a call, so we can advise you properly.
In our climate here in the Netherlands we rarely see too much humidity, but we do see many fluctuations of humidity; in the summer for example it can be very humid (muggy), but also bone dry. And in winter, when it is cold and damp outside, it is often very dry inside because of the heating. So think about a tactical place to put the guitar; right next to the heater or stove is a no-go, but also where there is underfloor heating is often not a good place for a guitar. Rooms with regularly open windows or rooms with washing machines are usually much more humid.
DAMAGE TO MY GUITAR DUE TO SHRINKAGE. AND NOW?
By definition shrinkage damage is out of warranty; the manufacturer or the shop where you bought the guitar cannot control where you put it and what the humidity is like on that spot. This is your own responsibility, but then you should at least be aware of what humidity can do to a guitar!
If you have any problems with a guitar that you bought from us, please do not hesitate to come back, as we try to find a good and reasonable solution in consultation with our suppliers. But...prevention is better than cure!
More Information
| Brand | D'Addario |
|---|---|
| Ean Code | 0019954928759 |
| Article number | 63704 |
| Size (packaging) | 15 x 10 x 4 cm |