Art is more than an object of visual admiration; artworks are valuable assets with an inherent market value. As with any object of value, they need to be effectively preserved to maintain their market price. That’s why any secure art storage should be organized with proper regard to all potentially hazardous factors, including climate control. Here is a brief intro to how environmental fluctuations can damage various artworks and how a climate-controlled storage facility can help.
Oil Paintings
Sharp fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause cracking and flaking in oil paintings. This happens because oil-based paints are prone to expansion and contraction under different temperatures. The process happens quicker if the oil paint is applied to wooden panels or canvas supports. Humidity is also disastrous for oil paint, as it can cause the canvas’s sagging and mildew development.
Paper-Based Art
If temperature and humidity fluctuate in the storage facility, paper-based works of art may yellow, warp, or develop mold. The process happens because of the hygroscopic properties of paper, which means that it absorbs moisture from the air. As a result of the prolonged impact of excessive moisture, the fiber may weaken and acidify.
Sculpture
Though sculptures look sturdier and more durable at first glance, they are also susceptible to the impact of improper temperature and humidity parameters. Excessive humidity and temperature fluctuations can cause corrosion in metal sculptures and shrinkage or insect infestation in wood artwork. Wood can also swell or contract under the impact of the wrong environmental settings. Mixed-media art is the most vulnerable because it contains different raw materials, each of which has specific storage demands (sometimes conflicting with each other).
Photography
Improperly stored photographs may fade and curl; excessive humidity and temperature may also cause emulsion damage. The high level of chemical sensitivity of photographic materials triggers these degradation processes. Thus, too high or too low temperature and humidity settings can affect the image’s chemical composition.
How Secure Art Storage Solves the Problem
The good news is that you can avoid all of these degradation problems by establishing a high-quality, museum-grade climate control system. It should guarantee a stable environment of 65-70°F and a relative humidity level of 45-55%. These conditions are optimal for the majority of artwork types and can ensure the minimal required level of protection for all types of art. Additional measures recommended for safe storage of art include HVAC systems, air filters, and 24/7 detectors that make the climate stable.