What comes to your mind when you think about secure fine art storage? Some people prioritize 24/7 surveillance and security systems that protect their valuable pieces of art from thieves and vandals. Others think about the importance of climate control that will ensure artworks’ safety from hazardous environmental factors.

Inventory management, robust pest control, fire and flood protection – every art owner has a distinct set of priorities in terms of art safety. Yet, there is a mandatory minimum that every storage should meet to be considered safe. Here are the parameters you should always check.

Must-Have Features of Secure Fine Art Storage

Climate Control

No matter how self-obvious this point may seem, climate control is at the heart of art storage security. Artwork is extremely sensitive to temperature and humidity fluctuations, so all types of art require a stable environment with well-controlled parameters to avoid the risks of degradation.

Fire and Flood Protection

Art storage facilities should be equipped with advanced, specialized fire suppression systems that don’t use water. These may be gas-based or water-mist systems that minimize the risk of artwork damage with water and give a high degree of fire protection. In terms of flood protection, art storage spaces are typically elevated above the surface and located in areas with a low risk of flooding.

Security

Security is a vital part of securing expensive artwork. Every reputable storage facility should be equipped with 24/7 surveillance systems. It also makes sense to implement biometric access controls, which will ensure that only authorized and trained staff can enter restricted areas containing high-value items.

Specialized Storage Facilities

Custom solutions inside the storage facility are also a benefit. Artwork comes in all types, forms, and sizes. Thus, not every art object can meet the dimensions of standardized vaults or storage units. There should always be an option for space customization, such as adjustable shelves and racks, capable of hosting an art object of any shape and weight. 

Never Neglect the Security Dimension When Choosing a Storage Facility

Though secure fine art storage can mean different things for different people, there is still a consensus about must-have features your storage facility should possess. If you don’t want to do guesswork and take the risks of entrusting your collection to dubious storage providers, our museum-grade storage is at your disposal. Our storage in Upper Manhattan is optimally located for easy access. Besides, it was designed under the guidance of museum experts, so it incorporates all vital security dimensions you need. Contact us today for details.