While many framing companies are well versed in the storage of both wood and metal picture frame molding, this is not always the case for a week-end hobbyist.  To be sure, for hobbyists with the right equipment and adequate skill-set, making frames at home can be fun and can yield a great sense of satisfaction.

A do-it-yourself framer will often purchase large quantities of frame molding in order to receive bulk purchase discounts. This material in turn may be stored for long periods of time before becoming a frame. While long-term storage is a perfectly acceptable practice (after all, suppliers store molding for months or even years), doing it properly is an important factor in ensuring that the raw materials will remain in perfect condition. In the case of wood, this means no buckling, bending or development of mold. In the case of metal frames it means no rust. This article offers simple and proactive storage tips and considerations that will ensure the integrity of the molding for months of storage.

Before any product arrives in a frame shop, whether a private home or a large framing company, the frame maker can do little to control the environment in which the product is stored. Items such as the storage methods used by the manufacturer and distributor, as well as the harsh shipping environment through which the product will be put through (imagine shipping via truck during a Minnesota winter to Phoenix1) will all take their toll on the molding. However, once in the shop, the DIY framer begins to control the storage environment.  These are focused on next.

An excellent first line of defense for both wood and metal molding is that both should only be purchased from a reputable supplier who is known for producing quality product.  There are many on-line companies that offer quality product at wholesale prices and after the appropriate research is done, these can be trusted just as much as a bricks and motor company. In both cases, if prices that look too good to be true, they probably are.  If unsure about an online company, consider calling and expressing your concerns. A reputable retailer should be more than happy to answer your questions.

Wood Frame Storage
Untreated or unvarnished wood is particularly susceptible to humidity and temperature changes, especially sudden ones. Therefore, the storage of untreated molding requires particular attention.  Once in the shop or your home, the wood molding should be stored like any other type of wood whether it be a specialty hardwood or simple firewood. Storage and handling requirements will depend on a number of factors. Below are some guidelines:

Wood should be kept in a well ventilated area that is kept at constant humidity. Significant humidity changes will cause untreated wood to quickly absorb and/or release water. This will inevitably result in swelling and bending of the wood. If wood molding bends into a banana-like shape, restoring it will be a futile effort. It is best consigned to the fireplace.

Wood is best stored horizontally with supports at least every 24 inches or so.  Shelves are not necessarily a superior storage option because they will reduce air-flow.  Even support is necessary to ensure that the wood does not bend on its own weight. If wood must be stored vertically, make sure to support it evenly and to keep it a few inches off the ground so that air can circulate underneath it.

Avoid excessive heat and radical heat changes, especially sudden ones.  One of the most common changes in heat are during the spring and autumn when temperatures can oscillate by 40 degrees or more. Any wood stored in an outside shack or unheated basement will suffer from these climatic changes.  Also avoid storing wood molding in front of a window that receives direct sunlight or near a heater or fireplace.

If purchased from a reputable supplier, frame molding will have been fumigated during the manufacturing process.  However, this will not absolve the home framer from parasites if the molding is stored improperly.  Improper storage include in an outside shack, an unfinished basement (esp. one with dirt floors), a garage or a barn. Poor storage methods will guarantee eventual problems and once present, insects will infect the entire stock very quickly. If insect infestation is spotted, the best plan of action is to immediately remove the molding in question, as well as all the pieces in its close proximity. These pieces should be discarded. Next, the entire stock should be inspected on a stick by stick basis. This is painstaking, but necessary work whether one or one thousand pieces of molding are in stock. Missing just one insect will only cause a repeat infection.

Metal Frame Storage
Metal is storage is much more straightforward because it is not susceptible to bending or warping the way wood is. However, scratches and excessive humidity can cause quality problems in this material as well. Specifically, scratches will not only be unsightly, but will also invite rust . If possible, it is best to store a metal frame in its original plating warping as received the supplier/wholesaler. Metal frames can be stored vertically, however care must be taken to ensure that they do not fall over as this will inevitably result in nicks and dents. Avoid storing in humid locations such as shacks or basement in humid climates.

In addition to the actual molding, framing accessories such as hanging hardware, wire and clip springs must also be stored with the same care awarded to the molding.

Of course once the wood is stained, then it will build a shell against moisture and warping. But don’t go and put your frames in storage in a humid and changing environment and expect them to look good. If this must happen, store them in enclosed boxes with humidity packs.

By following these basic, but necessary storage methods, any framer can store quality raw materials for a very long time.

Notes:
1. The weather on December 28, 2009 as reported by weather.com was:
      a. Minneapolis, MN | -13°F, 64% humidity at 1400h PST
      b. Denver, CO | 29°F, 51% humidity at 1400h PST
      c. Phoenix, AZ | 60°F, 17% humidity at 1400h PST

 

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