It is essential to be extra careful when dealing with the storage of valuable pieces like paintings and fine art. Most of the art is usually pricey and irreplaceable; hence you should handle it with lots of care to avoid damage and breakages. How you store it also determines its durability. If you are looking for a way to store your valuables, keep reading this article to grasp the same
An environment with a high-security check and accustomed to keeping such treasures should be considered. Self-storage is one of the ways to think, and it’s been a fast-growing industry over the past few years. It is highly recommended for storage purposes since it keeps your stuff safe against any possible odds like relocation or displacement from a natural disaster. Some mistakes you should look out for when choosing your storage area are discussed below.
Choosing The Proper Storage Unit
Not every storage unit is suitable for storing delicate items like art. Look for a team with climate control. Extreme temperatures affect materials differently. They could cause expansion or contraction. Humidity is also a significant threat to your valuables, so it should be avoided as much as possible.
When the climate is well controlled, your valuable art pieces are guaranteed safety from the intense weather conditions. These storage units are more expensive, but they are worth it and appropriate for your art storage. Constant temperatures running constantly keep humidity levels optimal and regulate the higher temperatures, maintaining the room’s conditions favorable.
Cleaning and Packing Your Art
Depending on the type of art you possess, there is a cleaning procedure to avoid damage or discoloration upon storage—dust-free store art. Use the right conditioner and spray to ensure they are well ready for storage. Your cleaning materials should be suitable and safe for your art. Avoid harsh chemicals. After they are all clean, pack them well and keep an inventory to ensure that they don’t get lost in the process of storage.
Never fill in a rush and avoid doing it as a last-minute thing. Your art pieces should be wrapped well depending on the artwork while packing. It should be so that they can breathe and are safe from damage. A heavy kind of clothing is the most appropriate for storing. Photographs can be put in containers to block away from light. Extra layers of protection like boxes of best fit can be used.
Storage of Your Art
Once cleaned, wrapped, and packed, keep them in a way that will prevent something from happening to them. Avoid placing them on the floor. Instead, store them upright with smaller ones in front and larger ones at the back of the smaller ones. They should be well spaced to avoid falling on top of others and breaking or damaging.
Get Insurance for Your Art
It is essential to ensure that you have self storage facility insurance for your art pieces. It is usually from any other forms of insurance you may have. It is meant to take care of the valuable pieces of art you own. In case of anything, you don’t suffer significant losses and you get compensation for the same.
Inspecting Your Art for Damage
As you store your fine art, it’s essential to cross-check if any damage has been caused during the packing process. It is done to avoid future surprises of finding broken stuff while you thought you left it all safe. Take evidence of the safety of your property after inspection. Such as photos and in case of existing breakages, write a report for the same. This leaves you with the assurance of the condition of your valuable pieces.
Transport Your Art Carefully
If you have to move your stuff from one location to another, do this cautiously. Anything ranging from damage to loss can happen if you are not careful. Choose a reliable transport service to transport them for you. You can use pillows and blankets to cushion your art and keep them upright and safe on the road.
Do Not Neglect Safety Precautions
The art you intend to store is very costly, hard to replace and sentimental, so you should treat the safety and security of your art as a matter of urgency. The Storage unit you choose should be reliable and well equipped with up to date security measures. The access to your unit should be entire to you only.
Look for a Specialist in the Storage of Fine Art
Research widely to get the best service providers in this field. You can also ask around to get recommendations on them. Have a background check on the storage unit and its operations. The safety of their clients’ artwork should be a priority for them.
A good and safe storage unit is essential for storing your fine art, so it is good to ensure you get the best for what you value.
ALISON lurie