Why does my wooden library post have cracks in it?

Our library posts are made from real lumber, usually cedar and pine. Cedar, in particular, is prone to “checking,” or developing cracks. This is a very common occurrence. It happens because lumber naturally has a lot of water in it. As the wood takes in or loses moisture from its environment, it will shrink or swell, sometimes causing the wood to split. This is a natural process and it won’t compromise the structural integrity of the post. You can apply a new coat of paint or stain to minimize the appearance of the cracks, if you’d like. Learn more about why real wood “checks.”