Why Antique Wood Shrinks, Swells and Splits

Wood exchanges moisture with surrounding air. Across the grain it expands as humidity rises and contracts as it falls, while movement along the grain is much smaller.

What to look for

Look for seasonal gaps, split panels, lifting veneer and tight drawers. Traditional construction often allows panels and drawer bottoms to move within grooves.

Common mistakes

Blocking movement with screws, rigid filler or excessive glue can transfer stress and create new splits. Sudden drying beside a heater is especially damaging.

Care and repair

Aim for gradual, moderate environmental change. Do not force swollen parts; allow conditions to stabilise before deciding that structural work is needed.

References and further reading

• [V&A furniture collection](https://www.vam.ac.uk/collections/furniture)
• [Canadian Conservation Institute: agents of deterioration](https://www.canada.ca/en/conservation-institute/services/agents-deterioration.html)

This article is educational. Test treatments cautiously and consult a conservator before altering a valuable or historically important object.

Watch the workshop approach

See conservation-minded repairs, examinations and techniques on the [Antique Repair Shop YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/@AntiqueRepairShop).