Repair on Conde Hermanos Negra back

[Robert]

Hello... New person here. We have a Conde Hermanos Negra Felipe V made with Brazilian rosewood back and sides.Despite being humidified; It's developed a 2 hairline cracks on the back, one running the full length of the back, the other about 5 inches. I know that Brazilian Rosewood can be unstable at times.
I'd like to get these cracks properly repaired, but I'm reluctant to take it to just any luthier. I'm hoping that the cracks can be repaired with rosewood dust and glue without having to go the route of putting cleats or supports in.
We live in Phoenix so any help would be appreciated. I don't mind driving to the LA if necessary,
Thanks,
Robert
Scottsdale, AZ

[Miguel]

Hi Robert,

sorry to hear about those cracks. What percentage of relative humidity do you normally store your guitar in? Do you keep it at home, or does it leave the house often?

We cannot post luthier's info on the forum (out of respect to them), but give us a call. We may be able to refer you to someone who can help you.

Best regards,
Miguel
GSI

[Robert]

Hi Miguel..... It's stays at home and is in a 45% relative humidity environment. I'll give you a call tomorrow ans see if you know someone to repair the cracks.
Thanks,
Robert

[Miguel]

Hi there Scott,

hmm... well, it's hard to say why those cracks developed, specially if you keep the guitar at the proper humidity level. Just one quick note: do remember that heaters and air conditioners do dry out the air, so you have to watch out for that as well. It sounds like you already have a hygrometer, but if you don't, it might be a good idea to get one.

Cleats are usually needed only when the crack is severe, and there is risk of it spreading. That is something that the luthier will determine for you. With a little luck it won't be anything serious. Give us a call and we'll go from there.

All the best,
Miguel
GSI

[Dimitri]

It could also be possible that the cracks developed as a result of poorly dried wood. Rio rosewood takes a notoriously long time to lose its water content, regardless of whether it's kiln or air dried.

Even if the back was technically braced at the proper RH, the back would undoubtedly continue to shrink, regardless of being kept at the proper RH, if the wood had too much water content at the time of assembly.

I'm not saying that this is what happened, but it's something that shouldn't automatically be dismissed either.

Good luck.
Dimitri