What to Know Before You Store Your Masterpieces
Art is more than just decoration—it’s an investment, a passion, and often irreplaceable. Whether you’re an artist or collector or need a safe place for your pieces, self-storage can be a practical solution. However, storing artwork requires careful planning to preserve its beauty and value. You need to know here before placing your masterpieces in a storage unit.
Choose the Right Type of Storage Unit
Not all storage units are created equal, especially when storing art. Standard storage units may expose your pieces to temperature fluctuations and humidity, which can cause warping, mold, or fading. Instead, opt for a climate-controlled storage unit that maintains a consistent temperature and humidity level to protect your artwork from environmental damage.
Properly Pack Your Artwork
Improper packing can lead to scratches, dents, or other damage. Follow these best practices for storing different types of art:
- Paintings & Canvas Art: Wrap in acid-free paper, then cover with bubble wrap. Store upright in a sturdy crate or box.
- Framed Art: Use corner protectors and wrap the frame in a soft cloth or bubble wrap. Avoid stacking frames to prevent pressure damage.
- Sculptures & Fragile Pieces: Use padded crates to cushion each piece to avoid shifting during storage.
- Photography & Prints: Store in archival-quality boxes with acid-free paper between prints to prevent sticking and deterioration.
Control the Environment
Even in a climate-controlled unit, additional precautions can help preserve your art:
- Use silica gel packets to absorb excess moisture.
- Keep artwork off the floor by using shelving or pallets to prevent damage from potential leaks or flooding.
- Cover pieces with breathable cloths instead of plastic to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup.
Consider Security Measures
Art can be a target for theft, so security should be a priority. Choose a facility with 24/7 surveillance, DVR monitoring, secure access codes, and individual unit alarms. Some facilities even offer private storage units with enhanced security features for high-value items.
Check on Your Art Regularly
Even with the best precautions, it is important to check your artwork periodically. Look for any signs of moisture, pests, or temperature-related damage. Regularly rotating pieces out of storage can also help prevent long-term degradation.
Insure Your Artwork
No matter how careful you are, accidents can happen. Insurance coverage for your artwork can provide peace of mind in case of unexpected damage or theft. Check if your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance covers stored art, or consider a specialized art insurance policy.
Conclusion
Storing art in a self-storage unit can be a great solution but requires thoughtful planning and care. By choosing the right storage unit, packing properly, controlling the environment, ensuring security, and maintaining insurance, you can keep your masterpieces safe for years. I know at Tellus Self Storage it will be our priority! Whether you’re storing for the short or long term, taking these precautions will help preserve your collection’s beauty and value.
Contact Us
Tellus Self Storage - Hammond Highway
📍 12230 Old Hammond Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70714
📞 (386) 961-9926
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Tellus Self Storage - Venice
📍 42541 Hwy 23, Covin, LA 70433
📞 (985) 893-8988
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Tellus Self Storage - Walker Mini
📍 13297 Burgess Avenue, Walker, LA 70785
📞 (225) 667-7727
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Tellus Self Storage - Covington
📍 20317 Highway 36, Covington, LA 70433
📞 (985) 893-8988
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Tellus Self Storage - Abita
📍 70037 Highway 59, Abita Springs, LA 70420
📞 (985) 892-4979
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Tellus Self Storage – All About I
📍 5553 Groom Rd, Baker, LA 70714
📞 (386) 961-9926
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Tellus Self Storage – All About II
📍 3100 Main St. Baker, LA 70714
📞 (225) 500-1601
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Tellus Self Storage Denham Springs
📍 8039 Vincent Road Suite A, Denham Springs, LA 70726
📞 (255) 664-1668
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Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice.