After Care
Whether it be the conservation of your art within and exhibition or at home, we have outlined some good practices and tips for you to consider and perhaps implement.
Picture frames and gilded objects are constructed from a variety of materials, often more complex than they may first appear. The wooden element of picture frame is often a soft wood, for example pine, lime, or poplar but hard woods are also used for example oak and Ash. Some modern frames have a variety of coatings and surfaces to replicate wood but are in fact plastic.
Sunlight Exposure
Direct and indirect sunlight can cause extensive damage to your painting, warping and delamination of the surface of the picture frame. As a guide 50 Lux (light reading) is the maximum that a painting picture or print should be exposed to, significant damage will occur above this level. High quality UV glass will minimize damage but valuable pictures should be displayed in a dark room.
Wear and Tear
Normal wear and tear from a domestic life can cause scratches, dents and abrasions, or staining from contact with water and other domestic solvents. To lightly polish the frame, use a clean, dry cloth and lightly rub the surface of the frame to restore the shine.
Cleaning
Keep cleaning to a minimum and only give your picture frame a light dusting with a soft bristle brush or soft, dry, clean lint free cloth. It is important to avoid use of water and solvents, which could stain or remove the painted finish.
Storage and Display
Avoid heat sources such as radiators and fires and do not hang your pictures on walls at risk of damp and leaks. Ensure your pictures are securely attached to the wall or relevant area.
Heat
Do not hang your pictures over a direct heat source or indirect sunlight. A varied room temperature will cause damage from expansion and contaction of the object or frame.
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The ideal environment has an ambient temperature with relative humidity of 55-65 degrees with a constant temperature of 18-20 degrees. Variations in the air temperature will significantly alter the relative humidity.
Monitoring
Check your pictures and frames at regular intervals, at least every 5 years! Take a photograph and write down the position of any areas of damage (such as new flight holes), on an annual basis. If you notice serious damage, bring your picture in to Insitju Fine Art and Conservation for an inspection report and repairs as necessary.
Moving
Keep moving and handling to a minimum. Best practice is to wear latex snug-fitting gloves to avoid oil and moisture from your hands damaging the finish on a frame. Ensure there are enough of you to move a heavy picture to avoid putting a strain on the joints. Make sure you have a clear route and a space prepared to take the frame before you start. Move your items one at a time.
Humidity
Do not hang in a damp environment.
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The ideal environment has an ambient temperature with relative humidity of 55-65 degrees with a constant temperature of 18-20 degrees. Variations in the air temperature will significantly alter the relative humidity.
Pests and Moulds
Anobium punctatum, the common furniture beetle causes the most frequently seen damage, boring 1-3mm diameter flight holes into the surface of the wood. Damage can be slight to extreme, weakening the object’s structure. Active woodworm should be treated immediately; tell tale signs are light wood dust underneath the object. Avoid storing your picture frame in damp or wet conditions, which can cause staining and structural damage.
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Keep an eye out for any signs of the above and take action at the earliest moment you notice a problem. A conservator can help repair and restore damaged finishes and improve the appearance and structural integrity. Pest damage will increase when the relative humidity is too high.
Fittings
Examine your fittings carefully and ensure they are securely attached to your picture frame, not bent, rusted or loose. Note that metal objects will corrode if the relative humidity is too high.