Conservation Guidance Targets Humidity, Light and Handling as Main Threats to Stored Art

Artworks frequently sustain damage during crating, moving, or when housed in inappropriate environments. The primary threats include humidity fluctuations that lead to cracked paint and warped panels; exposure to light, which can diminish the quality of paper and textile pieces; pests and dust, especially in basements and garages; and physical handling, where most damages occur. To mitigate these risks, it is advised to keep humidity levels between 45-55%, store items in darkness, utilize custom crates, maintain climate control throughout the year, and follow a documented retrieval process. In hurricane-prone areas, proper construction is essential; William C. Huff, established in 1908, creates fine art storage solutions that can endure Category 5 winds, offering detailed inventories and condition reports for every item.