Paintings can be damaged by water in various ways. The most obvious stains will be a stained, cloudy surface as moisture becomes trapped.
Secondary issues may occur, such as weakening of the paint layer, mould growth, cracks, rotting stretcher bars or panels. When an artwork is salvaged from a disaster, it may have also been torn, dented or have areas of flaking paint.
Our conservation team is able to restore the following issues:
It is important to note that floodwaters can contain dangerous chemicals and bacteria, this needs to be removed swiftly to avoid further damage.
Paintings can also be damaged by humidity, as moisture in the air can encourage mould within canvas fibres, stretcher bars or panel. A cloudy ‘blanched’ surface can also form.
We can restore these issues and offer guidance on how to best care for your artwork when living in a humid enviornment. For information on collections care, please click here.
Water damage often occurs when flames are extinguished during a fire. This can lead to various secondary issues with both smoke and water affecting the stability and visual impact of an artwork. Click here to find out more about our fire damaged painting restoration service.
We can help you navigate complex insurance claims following a flood or household disaster. Our experts are happy to provide detailed information to all parties involved, allowing us to reach the best possible result for each artwork during this difficult time. Click here to read more about our insurance work.
We welcome questions about painting restoration following a flood, leak or accident. Our experts can work alongside insurance companies and offer expert advice on what is achievable.
