Congratulations! If you're reading this page then you have either invested in, or are about to invest in some furniture that will last you a lifetime, with just a little Tender Loving Care! Taking good care of your solid hardwood furniture ensures its longevity. It's easy and largely a matter of common sense. A bit of background information.

Did you know that up to half the weight of freshly sawn wood is water?

Hard wood furniture is crafted from wood that is carefully dried, retaining just enough moisture for the furniture to properly acclimatise to the relative humidity in your home. The wood in furniture continues to exchange moisture with the air, shrinking and expanding in response to changes in relative humidity.

Like your own skin, solid hardwood furniture's natural response to extremely dry air is to lose moisture and shrink a bit. The halves of an extension table may part slightly or a few tiny openings may appear on a solid wood surface. This will correct itself as the relative humidity rises, and the hardwood absorbs enough moisture to expand slightly.

On the other hand, if you don't have an air conditioner or dehumidifier, your home's relative humidity may get too high. Parts of your hardwood furniture may absorb excess moisture from the air and expand, perhaps causing drawers to stick. Once again, this will correct itself as your home's relative humidity decreases. The quality and sturdiness of your hardwood furniture are not affected by these natural changes.

Hardwood furniture is made to be used and enjoyed and accidents can (and generally will) happen -especially when there are small children at home. Without 'teaching grandmother to suck eggs' - here are some common sense steps to take to try and keep damage from day to day life to a minimum.

• Use coasters to prevent spills, stains and damage from hot dishes and cups.
• Blot all spills immediately.
• Keep solvents, alcohol, nail polish and polish removers away from your hardwood furniture surfaces.
• When dusting, always lift lamps and other objects - don't slide them across the surface.
• Always lift lamps and other objects - don't slide them across the furniture's surface.
• Always lift hardwood furniture to move it - don't drag it.
• Open and close doors, drawers and lids gently.

How to ensure your furniture stays in tip top condition.

• For your comfort, as well as to protect your hardwood furniture, (and if you can) use a humidifier in the winter and an air conditioner in the summer to keep the relative humidity at 25 to 35 percent.
• Avoid placing hardwood furniture directly in front of radiators, heat runs or fireplaces.
• Don't expose hardwood furniture to continuous direct sunlight. Draw the curtains or pull the blinds occasionally.

Finally, enjoy!