CARVING CARE

What to Expect - The Nature of Wood

It's the nature of log wood to fluctuate with temperature and humidity, so cracks and checks will happen in log sculptures - they are a normal occurrence and can be embraced as part of the character of natural wood.
Kiln-dried lumber and glue-laminated timber block sculptures tend to be more stable and resistant to cracks and checks, but they can still occur.
Natural weathering of outdoor sculptures is expected over time.
Carvings for outdoor use are generally finished with spar urethane or timber oil featuring UV-resistant, mildew-resistant, and water-resistant properties.
Carvings for indoor use may use an alternative varnish.
Routine maintenance promotes optimal longevity of an outdoor wood sculpture.

For outdoor carvings, I recommend that owners routinely re-seal with spar urethane or timber oil 1-2 times per year, and targeted application as new cracks occur.
For indoor carvings, re-sealing isn't as necessary as it's not exposed to the elements.
If preferred, normal-occurring cracks may be touched up with same-colored paint or stain, and re-sealed. It is possible to fill cracks, but it will always look like a filled crack and is not my first choice unless absolutely necessary.
Insects are prone to love wood, especially outdoors. Carvings are pre-treated with natural insecticide at point of carving to eliminate any preexisting creepy-crawlies. If new insect activity appears (ie. visual bugs, piles of wood dust forming), I recommend treatment with insecticide spot spray or tent fumigation.
Clients are responsible for maintaining their own wood carvings.
Clients can contact me with questions or inquire about a service quote.

Place outdoor wood sculptures on a level, well-drained surface such as paving stones, crushed rock, or bricks. If placing on concrete or similar surface, use spacers to prevent moisture being trapped underneath.
Avoid placing on grass or dirt.
Installing under shelter (ie. covered deck, porch, pavilion, gazebo) helps protect the sculpture's longevity by reducing exposure to weather and sun.
Secure the sculpture to prevent theft and/or tipping. Each installation is unique, but here are a few ideas:
- If placed on a wood deck, a sculpture can be secured from underneath using screws/lag bolts
- Metal brackets with a 90-degree angle can be installed at the base - secure into the side of the wood with screws/lag bolts, and to the surface below with ground posts/concrete anchors/lag bolts/screws.
- An eye-bolt or U-bolt installed onto the base of the carving can be secured to an anchor point with chain/cable.
Signage/fencing may prevent damage from unwanted touching/climbing
Indoor installation: avoid close proximity to heat sources, vents, fans, and excessively drying conditions. Place spacers or furniture sliders beneath to allow air flow.
Consider insuring the artwork.
Ask me for advice or inquire about custom installation service.