Guitars will start to dry out at under 40% rh and can start to crack, neck angles will pull up, bridges can lift off tops, and tops can start to sink. The damage from this can be upwards of $500 if necks need to be reset, and higher if more damage occurs. With less expensive laminated wood guitars you don't need to worry as much, but the dry air can still affect the neck and action...the same goes with solid body electrics where you'll notice low action, buzzing, and sharp fret ends sticking out.
Some people feel a false sense of security because they've gone years with no trouble, but it can suddenly occur with little warning. It can also happen slowly over the years until one day it just
gets to a point where you notice things aren't right.
There are soundhole humidifiers like "Damp-It" and D'Addario's "Planet Waves Humidifier"which are inexpensive, and can save your guitar's life in the dry season when used correctly. The photo in this article is a Planet Waves Humidifier and "in the case" humidity meter (hygrometer). I suggest keeping them moist and in the soundhole, in the case whenever the guitar is not being played during this season. You may need to re-moisten these devices every 3-7 days depending on your home's climate. You should used distilled water to avoid mineral deposits from clogging the elements.
Some companies are denying warranty claims these days as this falls under "neglect", so please be prudent! Feel free to e-mail me for advice on this! I have seen many dried out Taylors, Martins, Guilds, and Gibsons this year so far. Don't let yours be another in the long line in my repair shop!
Feel free to visit my website's repair page at http://www.customguitars.com/guitarrepair.htm
All the best, Scott
S.B. MacDonald Custom Instruments
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