Water Damage & Flooded Basement Restoration Services

Clean, Dry, Repair and Disinfect Framed Items

By the RestorationSOS Educational Staff

Framed paper items may include different types of paper such as photos, paintings, and documents. The main challenge in salvaging these items is to safely separate the paper item from its framing.

Like with all paper items, and depending on the importance of the item, it is recommended to have a professional conservator dry and salvage your paper items, utilizing his knowledge and experience for the success of this process.

If you choose to salvage your paper items yourself, start with learning the basic methods of paper salvage and be sure to start with drying out to improve indoor conditions and reduce humidity levels.

Step 1 - Separate the Item from the Frame

Drying the paper item outside of its frame is much easier and will allow equal drying of the item. Place the frame glass-side down and remove the backing materials. Now, carefully remove object and separate it from the glass.

If the object appears to be stuck to the glass, do not attempt to remove it from the frame. Instead, dry the frame with object inside, glass side down on a flat surface.

Step 2 - Dry Out

Use a fan to air-dry the items. Another useful technique is to place each item on a clean absorbent paper, face up. Do not use printed paper as ink may transfer to your wet photos. Replace the paper every hour until the photos are completely dry.

Recommended Reading:
Clean, Dry, Repair, and Disinfect Paper
Clean, Dry, Repair, and Disinfect Photos