Gibson USA, Owner'S Manual, Page: 22 / 64

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Heat and cold: Gibson’s nitrocellulose finish can expand or contract to adjust to extreme tem-
peratures and humidities—but not to sudden changes in temperature or humidity. Just as a
hot drink will crack a chilled glass, the finish of a Les Paul will crack if a guitar that has been
sitting in the trunk of a car in wintertime is suddenly exposed to the warm air of a heated room.
In these conditions, let the guitar warm up gradually inside the case before opening the case.
Rain:
Water wipes off the instrument’s finish easily, but if allowed to remain, it can cause ugly
water spots in the lacquer.
Sun: Avoid direct rays of the sun on your Gibson. Direct sunlight can blister or discolor the finish.
More Things to Avoid.
When using a shoulder strap for a standing playing position, check that all
contact points and strap fasteners are secure.
Guitar stands with rubber supports that contain dye or plasticizers can “eat away” at the lac-
quer finish or leave a stain on your guitar that goes through the lacquer finish and into the
wood. These stains are permanent and this sort of damage is
not covered under your warran-
ty. We recommend covering the rubber parts of the stand with a soft cotton cloth (such as a
guitar polishing cloth) and using a guitar stand only for temporary “storage” of your instrument.