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February 28, 2007 Lucia writes for Acoustic Guitar: 
Every organic, porous substance tries to equalize to the surrounding air, both in temperature and humidity. Wood also equalizes to the surrounding conditions. When wood takes on moisture it swells; and when wood gives up moisture it shrinks. This is a physical characteristic of wood.
Fifty percent relative humidity is considered optimum for effective preservation of wooden objects like guitars. For example, within the Martin factory, they strive to maintain a temperature of 72 degrees Fahrenheit and a relative humidity level of 50%.
At a level of Humidity over 50% symptoms such as are tarnished frets and strings, corrosion to nickel, chrome or gold plating material on tuning machines, swelling of the top and other wood components, high action and loose braces and bridges can occur. When the humidity is too LOW a guitar or two may crack, but even those that are not cracked have lost a considerable amount of moisture and the tops are sunken. Often a higher saddle is necessary to make the guitar playable.
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