What Is Checking And Cracking In Wood, And Why Does It Happen?
Have you ever noticed lines of sudden separation along a piece of wood that had been cut recently? This phenomenon, known as “checking” and “cracking” in wood, is a surprisingly common occurrence on furniture and other products made of wood. Checking and cracking in wood furniture is a common experience for both the furniture buyer and furniture manufacturer. This phenomenon reflects an underlying problem in the furniture’s construction; it is not caused by anything that the furniture buyer did wrong. Checking and cracking occurs when an area of the wood furniture experiences a rapid decrease of moisture, often due to seasonal changes or from a sudden decrease in indoor humidity. Hotter, drier environments can contribute too. As the moisture decreases, tension builds within certain areas as the wood fibers pull away from each other, creating splits or cracks in the furniture surface. Unfortunately, once created, these cracks are largely irreversible without significant intervention from a furniture repair professional — such as filling with epoxy resin — although preventative measures can be taken to reduce their likelihood of occurrence.
With Canada’s abundant forests, it is no wonder that wood has played an integral role in the history of our country. As Canadians looking for ways to better care for our homes and businesses, understanding what checking and cracking are and why it occurs can help us take appropriate preventative measures that result in lasting quality home and office furniture. In this blog post, we discuss checking and cracking and how these phenomena occur so you can make informed decisions on your next project.
How Can You Prevent Checking And Cracking In Your Table Top Or Other Home And Office Furniture?
Checking and cracking on your tabletops, countertops and other furniture pieces can become unsightly over time. Taking preventative measures to protect the surface of these items can help preserve their condition for years to come. One of the best ways to protect a table or a countertop is by applying a protective sealant. Natural products such as beeswax, coconut oil and mineral oil will help create an invisible seal against dirt, dust and fingerprints while hydrating the wood so that it doesn’t crack. Additionally, you should avoid placing hot objects directly onto surfaces and keep plates, dishcloths and coasters handy when using items around the home. Finally, it is important to regularly wipe-down surfaces with soft cloths in order to remove any oils or sticky substances which may cause checking or cracking over time. By following these simple steps you can effectively protect your furniture from damage.
What are some steps to take if your tabletop has already started to check or crack?
Suppose the tabletop of a wooden item has already started to check or crack, unfortunately, likely. In that case, the detail will only get worse with time. Generally, sanding and refinishing can help restore wood surfaces from minor damage. Be sure to remove any remaining pieces of wood before refinishing, as these can further contribute to degradation over time. If sanding and refinishing do not restore the surface, consider applying a wood stabilizer as an additional protective measure. Also, use felt padding under all objects placed on wooden surfaces to reduce checking and cracking. Finally, follow up with routine cleanings with a soft cloth every six months — this helps keep dirt and other environmental elements from deteriorating the finish further.
Are There Any Solutions To Fix Checking Or Cracking In Wood If It Has Already Happened?
Fortunately, some solutions address checking and cracking in wood once it has already occurred. You can begin by cleaning the surfaces with a brush to remove all dirt and dust, then reattaching pieces or filling cracks to stabilize them. Damaged edges can be sanded down, but only use light passes to ensure that you don’t take off any more material than necessary. Additionally, wood exposed to extreme conditions can be treated with oil-based products like linseed oil and boiled linseed oil. Above all, when addressing checked and cracked wood, allow ample time for the repair work to dry completely before applying additional coats or paint if desired.
Can You Refinish A Table Top That Has Started To Check Or Crack, And How Would You Do So?
Refinishing a tabletop that has started to check or crack is possible and can drastically improve its appearance. The first step in tackling such a project is thoroughly cleaning the table with mineral spirits to remove all dirt, grime, and wax build-up. Next, sand the surface until any residual finish has been removed. If large cracks or chips need repair, use wood putty or doweling to fill them in; if small fissures are present, you may be able to sand them away. Once patched, allow the sealer or glue used for repair time to dry before continuing. Finally, apply a clear coat or your preferred stain and follow instructions for completing thorough coverage. Refinishing a tabletop in this manner can extend its life and aesthetic appeal.
How Do You Protect Your Table From Further Damage If Checking And Cracking Have Already Occurred?
Using a slip-resistant protective coating is one way to protect your tabletop from further damage when checking and cracking has already occurred. This product helps bind together the damaged sections of wood and offers a clear, unobtrusive finish. Additionally, a recordable or sandable sealer protects the table during use. It is easily applied with foam brushes for an even coat. This sealer can also help prevent further checking and cracking, making it an excellent choice for restoring your wood table. Finally, consider adding furniture felt pads or feet, as this will help avoid scratches from being made on your floor. With these methods in place, your table can be a beautiful and durable centerpiece of your living space.
The Benefits Of Using A Hardwood Like Black Walnut
The timeless look and remarkable strength of hardwood furniture can provide homeowners with beautiful furniture that stands the test of time. One wood that is well known for its durability, color variation, and grain pattern is black walnut. This hardwood has many benefits in furniture construction, including its shock resistance, stability over time, and termite resistance. In addition to furniture, black walnut can be used in tabletops, countertops and flooring due to its anti-slip properties for a safe and stylish look. With its ability to withstand nearly any condition and age gracefully, investing in furniture made from black walnut is an excellent choice for any homeowner.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to wood that has already started checking or cracking due to age or other factors, there are steps you can take, such as cleaning the surface with mineral spirits before sanding down damaged edges or adding protective coatings to restore its original beauty. Hardwoods like walnut are an excellent choice for furniture and home improvement projects. They provide a timeless look to any space. However, their strength and durability make them highly resistant to wear and tear, temperature fluctuations, mold growth, and more.With these tips in mind, your hardwood surfaces will remain beautiful and functional for years to come!