ralexander -> RE: Guitar care in cold weather? (UK especially) (Sep. 27 2010 17:01:07)
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Ideal humidity for most guitars is around 40-50%, but in my experience it's the sudden and dramatic changes in temp/humidity that can cause damage. If a guitar is able to climatize slowly then you will have less chance of issues. Here in Canada, I used to take this one guitar (a Santa Cruz OM steel string) to a friends place. I had a standard hardshell case, so the guitar would get noticeably colder when transporting it outside - even during a 15min car ride. I usually would not wait very long before opening the case in his house exposing the guitar to warmer temps. After a while, the bindings began to separate in 2 spots which was a drag. This kind of treatment in more extreme cases can have other nasty affects such as finish crazing or checking (cracks in the finish) or braces becoming loose. My suggestion - instead of spending a ton on a fancy case, find yourself an insulated case cover - this will slow the change inside the case. Check here: http://coloradocase.com/ I've had Colorado and Small Dog covers - both are great. I try not to be too protective or anal with my guitars these days, but these covers are good insurance IMO - especially if you travel.
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