Like all living things, timber, can be affected, by the weather and climate. Derwent Bay Bears are not recommended to live indoors or under any type of shelter, but will be quite happy in a shady spot in your garden. Unlike humans the Bears are not sun worshipers, and love to get wet in the rain.

A common cause of concern is when the timber splits. This is a natural process and is due to the wood drying out. This happens when the weather becomes warmer and drier and the timber looses too much moisture in a short space of time. Splits can occur around the face and body. Body splits are often the most obvious because the wood exposed is the raw colour as opposed to the outer stained colour, touching up your Bear at this stage will enhance the natural beauty of the timber.

Never be tempted to try and fill the cracks with a wood filler product as this will act as a wedge and drive the split deeper as the timber tries to shrink naturally. Even if splits appear to be joining up, rest assured your bear, will remain intact.

Wood stain is available from most DIY stores, made by Leyland, Ronseal and Cuppronol. A stain for Exterior Use and is Microporous and Water Repellent is recommended. This will allow for natural shrinkage and swelling.

Total body re-treatment is suggested every 1-2 years, with the appropriate shade of wood stain. A clear wood preservative is advised for the face, and exposed paws. These measures will ensure your bear remains a happy and faithful garden friend for many years.

WARNING! Derwent Bay Bears Are Heavy

As we have no control over the handling and siting of our bears after purchase, Derwent Bay Sawmill accepts no liability in this regard.