WhatsApp usWe are happy to assist you in saving artworks from mould. The swifter the treatment, the better the outcome will be. Please fill out the form below and we will be in touch to discuss how we can help and the possible outcomes for your painting.
Mould Damaged Painting Restoration
Mould spores can adversely affect oil paintings in numerous ways as they spread and worsen over time. Mould is an increasingly common problem for paintings of all ages. It can be caused by poor insulation, high humidity and damp conditions following water damage.
How does mould effect my painting?
Severe mould growth may disturb your painting to the point of heavy cracking, flaking and complete loss. Sometimes it can be hidden between the canvas and the wall, worsening out of sight.
As well as spreading across the surface, mould spores can embed into the frame, stretcher bars, canvas, or wooden panel.
It is always important to have a mould affected painting assessed and restored by conservators as soon as possible to ensure it does not continue to deteriorate.
All aspects require a period of specialist quarantine and professional cleaning to prevent the growth returning.
Cleaning a mould damaged painting
Mould growth on a painting, no matter how small the area is, should only be cleaned by a professional conservator. Paintings should not be cleaned with household chemicals as this may cause severe damage.
If you have accidentally damaged your painting, we may be able to assist with this aspect after we treat any active mould spores.
Avoiding mould growth
To reduce the growth or occurrence of mould, we recommend that paintings are kept at around 40% humidity and 20 degrees celsius. Keep them away from humid areas of the house such as bathrooms and kitchens, or anywhere that may have reoccurring mould problems.
Assess the atmosphere of any storage locations and check your painting regularly for any signs of mould or deterioration, including the back of the canvas.
