Why does my oak shelf or mantel have splits?Updated 2 months ago

Splits, cracks, and movement are all completely normal and expected characteristics of our solid oak shelves and mantels. These are not defects, but part of the natural beauty and individuality of working with real, untreated timber. Every beam is unique and the splits that appear only add to the rustic charm that defines Funky Chunky Furniture.

Our oak is air-dried over a long period to remove most of the natural moisture from the timber. However, unlike kiln-dried wood, air-dried oak retains a small amount of residual moisture when it arrives in your home. This means it will continue to settle and dry further depending on the heat and humidity levels in your space. As this happens, the wood may shift slightly and develop splits or cracks — particularly along the grain — which are a natural response to this gentle seasoning process.

These splits can vary in size and shape from one beam to another and often form in response to the individual grain structure and density of the timber. You may notice more movement in oak placed above a fireplace or in a room with fluctuating temperatures, and this is completely normal. It’s part of what makes each shelf and mantel unique, and it’s something we celebrate as part of the product’s rustic appeal.

We recommend embracing these features as part of the story of your furniture. If you're ever unsure whether what you're seeing is a natural feature or a concern, our team is always happy to take a look at photos and offer reassurance.