The short answer
First Steps After Water Damage
The first thing to do is remove the painting from the wet area if it is safe to do so. Wear gloves to avoid transferring oils from your hands. Lay the painting flat on a clean, dry surface, with the painted side facing up. Avoid touching the painted surface directly, as wet paint can smear or lift.
If the painting is stuck to glass or frame, do not force it apart. Place the whole piece in a cool, dry room with good air circulation. Use a fan on low to keep air moving, but do not point it directly at the painting. The goal is to slow the drying process to prevent cracking or warping.
- Wear clean cotton gloves
- Lay flat, painted side up
- Keep away from direct heat or sunlight
- Use a fan on low for air movement
- Do not peel wet paint or paper
- Photograph the damage for your records
Drying Techniques for Different Materials
For a canvas painting, place it face up on a flat surface with clean, dry towels underneath to absorb moisture. Change the towels as they become damp. For a painting on paper, place it between two sheets of blotting paper or clean, unprinted paper towels, and press gently with a heavy book to keep it flat.
Do not use a hairdryer, iron, or oven to speed up drying. Heat can cause paint to blister and canvas to shrink. Instead, let the painting dry naturally in a well-ventilated room. If mold appears on the surface, keep the painting dry and consult a professional conservator, as mold can cause permanent staining.
When to Call a Professional
If the painting is an heirloom, has sentimental value, or is professionally framed, it is wise to seek help from a professional art conservator. They have the tools and knowledge to carefully remove moisture, clean the surface, and repair any damage. For severely waterlogged pieces, acting quickly is important to prevent further deterioration.
For water damage that has also affected the wall or ceiling where the painting hung, you may need water damage restoration services. The pros can address the source of the leak and dry the surrounding area. If the painting is part of a larger water event, such as a pipe break, you may need emergency water extraction first.
- Consult an art conservator for valuable pieces
- For wall or ceiling damage, consider water damage repair
- Act quickly to prevent mold growth
- Document all damage with photos
- Keep the painting in a dry, stable environment
Preventing Future Water Damage
To protect your paintings, keep them away from areas prone to leaks, such as under bathrooms or near windows. Use a dehumidifier in damp rooms, especially during wet seasons. If you live in Redmond, with its mild marine climate, you know that moisture can be a year-round concern. Store valuable art in climate-controlled spaces if possible.
Check your home for signs of water damage regularly, such as stains on ceilings or peeling paint on walls. Fix any leaks promptly. If you have a pipe break, knowing how to shut off your water main can save your belongings. Keep your shutoff valve location written down and accessible.
Insurance and Documentation
If your painting is damaged by water, document the damage thoroughly with photographs and notes. This helps with any insurance claim you may file. Check your homeowner's or renter's policy to see if art is covered. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Keep receipts, appraisals, and photos of your artwork in a safe place, such as a digital cloud storage. If you need to file a claim, having this information ready can make the process smoother. For extensive water damage in your home, you may need to hire a water damage inspection service to assess the full extent.
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Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
Can I dry a painting with a hair dryer?
No, avoid using a hair dryer or any direct heat source. Heat can cause paint to crack, blister, and the canvas to shrink. Instead, let the painting dry naturally in a cool, well-ventilated room. Use a fan on low to keep air moving, but never point it directly at the artwork.
What if the painting has mold after water damage?
Mold can cause permanent staining and health concerns. Keep the painting dry and do not attempt to clean it yourself. Consult a professional art conservator who can safely treat mold. If the mold is widespread, you may also need to address the source of moisture in your home.
Should I try to clean the painting myself?
For minor water damage, you can gently blot excess water with a clean, dry cloth. However, do not rub or scrub the surface, as this can damage the paint. For any cleaning beyond that, or if the painting is valuable, it is right to leave it to a professional conservator.