Paintings allow you to transform and personalize your home or office. However, there may be times when you don’t have space to display all the artwork you love. If you have pieces you want to hold onto without displaying for an extended time, whether it’s due to a move, renovation, or other life circumstances, here are some essential storage tips to keep in mind.

3 Tips for Preparing Paintings for Long-Term Storage

1. Get a Climate Controlled Unit

Excessive moisture or temperature shifts can cause the canvas to expand and contract, which can eventually cause the paint to crack or chip. Rather than keeping your painting in a garage or basic unit where the temperature changes dramatically with the seasons, opt for a facility that offers climate control, so those factors don’t impact the quality of your piece over time.

2. Clean & Wrap

Dust and grime can fade or discolor your paintings over time, so carefully clean the surfaces before storing them. Use a soft duster and avoid applying pressure to the paintings. If you’re not confident in your ability to carefully clean artwork, pay a professional conservation or restoration company to handle this for you. Once they’re clean, wrap unframed artwork in acid-free paper or framed pieces in wrapping blankets or cushioning material, so they’re safe during transport.

3. Stack Items Carefully

Once inside your unit, avoid placing paintings directly on concrete floors or walls, as there’s a risk of moisture seeping in and ruining them. Instead, place paintings on pallets or padding and, if possible, allow them to rest on their sides instead of flat on the floor. If you need to store more than one painting or keep any other items next to your artwork, place padding in between.

If you’re looking for a storage unit where you can safely keep artwork, contact Heartland Self Storage in Elizabethtown, KY. The facility offers a wide array of sizes to suit every individual customer’s needs. Whether you need to store extra household goods or business inventory and equipment, you can find affordable options and friendly staff members to help you make the best possible choice. Visit the company’s website to see a full selection of storage options. To reserve your unit, call (270) 737-2334.