Timber is a living material, we take great care in reducing the moisture content to around 8% for most modern internal uses. Moisture content or lack of it can affect all timbers. Too much can cause wood to expand too little to contract.Generally direct sources of heat ie radiators ranges fires and sunlight should be avoided, and the surfaces should be liberaly treated with beeswax to maintain the finish and lustre. All pieces are coated with a chinese wood oil leaving the surface alcohol and waterproof whilst also being resistant to heat. scratches and minor damage can also be repaired relatively easily without having to strip the whole piece and repolish.