Emergency response for damaged photos

5/19/2020 (Permalink)

Everybody thinks of ways to salvage photos damage by water or moisture. There are a couple of tips we can try before we lose hope:

1. Do not rush the process of salvaging the photos. Evaluate the extent of damage, this will help identify the method of salvaging to use.
2. When a porous item comes in contact with moisture, molds activity can start in as little as 48 hours. Hence, remove all photos from frames, wrap in wax paper and freeze to prevent mold growth. The wax paper will help prevent the photos from sticking together.
3. Air dry all photos that have been frozen. Use a clean dry flat surface or table for this document recovery process. You can also line the table with some paper towels to help draw moisture from paper the bottom of the photos. Remember, do not stack the photo over each other so they stick and damage further.

The aforementioned methods are usually best suited for when you find the damage almost immediately it occurs. If discovered at a later time, these methods may not be as effective. If discovered late, please contact a professional to assess the damage and restore. It is best to find a professional to  help restore your precious item and take this stress off you.