The Art of Preservation: How to Care for Your Chainsaw Carving and Prevent Cracks

You’ve brought a piece of nature’s art into your home or garden—a stunning chainsaw carving that adds character, tell a story, and adds a touch of charm. But as living, breathing wood, your carving requires a little TLC to ensure it remains a cherished piece for years to come.

As a chainsaw carving business, we often get questions about the longevity of our pieces. The most common concern? Cracks. So, we’re sharing our expert advice on how to care for your carving, prevent those dreaded cracks, and even fix them if they do appear.

Why Do Chainsaw Carvings Crack?

First, it's important to understand that cracking in wood is a natural and inevitable process, and a little bit of character cracking is completely normal. The primary culprit is moisture fluctuation.

Wood is a hygroscopic material, meaning it constantly absorbs and releases moisture from the air. When the moisture content of the wood changes too rapidly, the wood fibers shrink and swell at different rates, creating internal stress that leads to cracks, also known as "checking."

The biggest triggers are:

• Rapid drying: Moving a piece from a damp, outdoor environment to a dry, climate-controlled indoor space ( like next to a woodstove).

  
  

• Direct sunlight: Placing a carving where it gets hit by intense, direct sun all day.

  
  

• Extreme temperature changes: Exposing the wood to large temperature swings

Step 1: The Golden Rule of Placement

The first and most important step in preventing cracks is thoughtful placement.

• Outdoor Carvings: Place your carving in a location with some natural shade, away from constant, direct sunlight. Consider positioning it under a tree, on a porch, or in a spot that gets a mix of sun and shade throughout the day. This allows the wood to acclimate and release moisture slowly.

  
  

• Indoor Carvings: Find a spot away from direct heat sources like fireplaces, radiators, or heating vents. Avoid placing it in a south-facing window where it will be exposed to intense sun. A stable, consistent indoor temperature is your best friend.

Step 2: The Power of Sealer

We seal all of our carvings before they leave our workshop, but the life of a sealer isn't forever. Applying a fresh coat of high-quality sealer is your best defense against moisture damage and cracking. A high quality oil based polyurethane once a year is beneficial.

• For Outdoor Carvings: We recommend resealing your carving annually or every couple of years, depending on the climate. Use a good exterior-grade oil-based sealer, polyurethane, or spar varnish. These products are designed to penetrate the wood and provide a durable, UV-resistant barrier. A brush or roller works great for application.

  
  

• For Indoor Carvings: A coat of interior-grade sealer or polyurethane every 3-5 years is usually sufficient to maintain its finish and protect the wood.

  
  

Pro-Tip: Before you reseal, give your carving a gentle cleaning. Use a stiff brush to remove any dirt or cobwebs. For outdoor pieces, a light rinse with a hose is fine, just be sure to let the carving dry completely before applying the sealer.

Step 3: Dealing with Cracks—What to Do When They Appear

It’s important to remember that a few cracks are not a sign of a flawed carving; they are a sign of real wood. Embrace them as a part of your carving’s unique character! However, if a crack becomes a concern, you can take action.

1. Assess the Crack: Are we talking about a small surface hairline or a deep crevice? For most minor cracks, no action is needed. They often close up on their own as the moisture content of the wood rebalances.

   
   

2. Fill the Crack: For larger cracks, you can use a high-quality wood filler, epoxy, or even a mix of sawdust from the same type of wood mixed with a wood glue (we use Gorilla glue) Apply the filler into the crack using a putty knife. Sand it smooth.

   
   

3. Sand and Re-Seal: After the filler or epoxy has fully cured, sand the repaired area until it is smooth and flush with the rest of the carving. Then, apply a fresh coat of sealer over the entire piece to protect the newly filled area.

   
   

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your cherished chainsaw carving remains a beautiful and resilient piece of art for many years to come. Remember, a carving is not a static object but a dynamic piece of nature that evolves over time. A little bit of care goes a long way in preserving its magic.

Have questions about your specific carving? Drop us a comment below! We’d love to help.