Humidity and Your Guitar: The One Thing That Matters Most
Most structural repairs we see started as humidity damage. Here is how to stop it before it starts.
Why humidity matters
Wood moves. A solid-top guitar kept below 35% relative humidity will eventually crack — not might, will. Most of the structural repairs that come through our bench started exactly this way.
The safe range
Keep instruments between 45% and 55% RH. In a New York winter with radiator heat, room humidity can drop below 20%, so a case humidifier is not optional.
What we recommend
- Keep the guitar in its case in winter
- Use a two-way humidity pack in the case
- Check a digital hygrometer monthly
- Book a seasonal checkup if you notice fret ends sticking out — that is the first warning sign.
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