How to open damaged rolltop desk?

Question

During a move, an inexpensive rolltop desk got wet. The rolltop part has now swollen in one section and will not allow top to open. It has dried out for a couple of days and swell has gone down, but not to previous size. Still unable to open it. Other than using a saw to remove the rolltop (that will be the last resort) do you have any suggestions?

Answer 1

A hairdryer might hurry it up, or you could try putting the desk in an air conditioned room. Dept stores sell dessicants  such as "Humi-dry". If you can get some of that in under the top, it could help. Otherwise, patience is in order.

Answer 2

To lubricate it you could use a candle or bar soap but not sure you can get any in there if it won't open at all.  If you can open it at all try to work some candle wax in there and work it up and down until it opens further.  If it is still too swollen you might have to wait longer for it to dry out.