Storage TipsPreparing Artwork and Statues for Storage
Preparing Artwork and Statues for Storage
Regardless of if you are an aspiring artist or art collector, being able to safely store your art is a real challenge. If you have a home studio, but are running out of room, or if you just want to store away some items, getting to know how to properly pack and store art and sculptures is a must.
Keep reading to learn some actionable tips on how to prepare and store your art and sculptures.
Prep Your Paintings for Storage
When it comes to preparing your paintings for long-term storage, it’s essential to recognize their delicate nature. Paintings are susceptible to environmental changes, such as fluctuations in temperature, humidity, and exposure to light, all of which can damage the artwork over time. Before packing your paintings, always inspect each piece for signs of deterioration, such as cracks in the paint, fading, or flaking. Addressing these issues before storage ensures the artwork remains in optimal condition.
Start by carefully cleaning the surface of each painting using a soft microfiber cloth. This will remove dust and debris without causing damage to the paint or varnish. For paintings with metal frames, use a small amount of oil to clean the metal and prevent rust from developing while in storage. Similarly, wooden frames can be polished with a wood-friendly polish to provide an additional layer of protection. Always use products that are recommended for the specific materials of your artwork to avoid causing harm.
After cleaning, it’s time to wrap your paintings in a protective yet breathable material. Avoid using plastic wrap or bubble wrap directly on the painting's surface, as these materials can trap moisture, leading to condensation and potential mold growth. Instead, opt for materials like cotton sheets, felt, or brown paper, which allow air circulation while protecting the artwork from dust and insects. You should also add cardboard corner protectors to framed pieces to prevent damage during handling.
For optimal protection, store framed paintings vertically rather than stacking them horizontally. Laying them flat can result in pressure buildup, potentially causing the frame or canvas to warp or collapse under the weight of other objects. To prevent water damage, always store your paintings off the ground, preferably on shelves or wooden pallets. If shelves aren’t available, consider placing wooden slabs under the paintings to keep them elevated and safe from any potential moisture or flooding.
Protecting Sculptures for Long-Term Storage
Sculptures, whether made of stone, metal, ceramic, or glass, require special attention when preparing them for storage. Sculptures are typically bulkier and heavier than paintings, which makes them more difficult to move and store safely. Moreover, different types of sculptures have varying levels of sensitivity to environmental conditions, making it important to tailor your storage approach based on the material.
Stone sculptures are particularly vulnerable to decay due to pollutants, moisture, and temperature fluctuations. Environmental factors like weathering and salt exposure, especially in coastal areas, can lead to surface erosion or structural cracks. If you’re storing stone sculptures, it’s recommended to choose a storage unit that’s further inland, away from corrosive coastal air. Additionally, keep them in a climate-controlled environment to prevent damage caused by humidity and temperature swings.
Glass and ceramic sculptures, while not as sensitive to environmental changes, can still suffer from physical damage during transport or handling. Glass sculptures, in particular, are prone to breaking if improperly packed. Ceramic sculptures with unstable glazes can develop cracks due to shifts in humidity. To protect these fragile items, clean them gently with a soft brush before wrapping each piece in bubble wrap. Pay close attention to any rough or jagged surfaces, and ensure that the bubble wrap is securely fastened around the sculpture to cushion it during transportation.
Once wrapped, place the sculptures in padded containers or boxes with ample padding material, such as foam or packing peanuts. This will protect the sculptures from impact or vibration during transport and storage. Make sure the containers are clearly labeled as fragile, and avoid stacking heavy items on top of them to prevent unnecessary pressure or damage.
Packing and Storing Art and Sculptures
Proper packing is essential to ensuring the safety of your artwork and sculptures during storage or transportation. When packing paintings, sculptures, or other art pieces, it’s critical to use high-quality packing materials specifically designed for artwork. Start by selecting boxes that are the right size for each piece—using oversized boxes may cause the items to shift during transport, while undersized boxes could lead to pressure on delicate parts.
For paintings, wooden crates or specially designed art boxes offer the best protection during long-term storage. These containers provide a solid outer layer, protecting your artwork from external impacts while ensuring that nothing presses directly against the painted surface. When placing artwork into these boxes, fill any gaps with acid-free packing paper to prevent the items from shifting. Acid-free materials are crucial for art storage as they prevent discoloration and degradation of the artwork over time.
For sculptures, consider using custom-fit crates or padded boxes to ensure they remain secure. It’s vital to immobilize sculptures inside the containers to prevent movement that could lead to chipping, scratching, or breakage. Use foam padding, bubble wrap, or similar cushioning materials around the sculpture, filling in any empty spaces with additional packing materials. For larger sculptures, such as stone or metal pieces, secure them in place using wooden braces or specialized packaging techniques to prevent movement during transport.
Proper labeling is also important. Clearly label each box or container with “fragile” and indicate the type of art inside to ensure careful handling during transport or while in storage. This added step can make a significant difference in how movers or storage personnel treat your items, reducing the likelihood of accidental damage.
Long-Term Maintenance of Stored Art and Sculptures
Once your artwork and sculptures are safely stored, it’s important to continue monitoring their condition over time. Periodic inspections will help you catch any potential issues early, such as mold, pests, or environmental damage. Climate-controlled storage units are recommended for long-term storage of art and sculptures, as they help regulate temperature and humidity levels, which are critical for preserving the integrity of these pieces.
For artwork, pay close attention to signs of moisture buildup, which can lead to mold growth or warping. Ensure that the paintings remain properly wrapped and that the environment remains free of dust and pests. If you notice any damage during your inspection, address it promptly to prevent further deterioration.
Similarly, sculptures may need occasional dusting or re-wrapping if the protective materials have shifted. If you’ve stored particularly delicate or valuable sculptures, consider adding moisture absorbers or silica gel packs inside the storage containers to protect them from humidity. For outdoor sculptures, even when in storage, regular check-ups are essential to ensure that they aren’t affected by pollutants or moisture.
Taking these steps will help ensure that your artwork and sculptures remain in pristine condition, ready to be displayed again whenever you choose to remove them from storage. Proper preparation, storage, and maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your art and protect its value.
We’re Your Storage Solution!
At Storage Rentals of America, we understand the unique needs of artists, collectors, and enthusiasts when it comes to safely storing artwork and sculptures. Our climate-controlled units offer the ideal environment for preserving your valuable pieces, protecting them from temperature fluctuations, humidity, and other environmental hazards. Our experienced team can help you determine the right storage unit size and provide expert advice on how to prepare your items for long-term storage.
With our convenient self-storage solutions and secure facilities, you can rest easy knowing your artwork and sculptures are in good hands. Contact our storage experts at 1-800-457-5678 for assistance, or visit our office to learn more about our specialized storage options for art and other valuable items. Let us help you keep your artwork safe, protected, and ready for display when you need it!
