| If you are a serious collector
of high value, rare or precious objects, it is likely that you will
need to store some or all of your collection at some point. If and
when this time arrives, it is important to know how to evaluate and
choose the proper storage facility. The two most important aspects
of storage are protection and preservation.
Protection
- A fine art storage facility must be a fire resistive or
non-combustible structure, composed of concrete and reinforced steel
beams, so that if there were a fire, it would be contained.
- The facility should be freestanding and distant from other
buildings.
- The entry and exit point should be the same and there should
be only one entry/exit. Ideally, there should be no windows in the
storage areas; if there are, they should be blocked from light.
- Motion detectors, shock sensors, and fire and smoke detectors
should be installed in all areas of the facility and they should
be connected to central security stations that connect respectively
with the Police and Fire Departments. They should be monitored 24/7.
- Fire protection should include either a wet pipe or dry
pipe sprinkler system throughout the facility, especially in storage
areas.
- Inspections of security and fire protection systems should
be conducted regularly and maintained using service contracts with
professional vendors.
- Personnel who are responsible for handling the art should
be trained and bonded.
- The loading dock should be secure at all times and monitored
by company staff.
- A computerized inventory system should be available.
- All access to the facility should be monitored, restricted
and documented. Access should be limited to working hours.
- Private vaults should be provided for those collectors
requiring a higher level of security and privacy.
Preservation
- Temperature and humidity control is critical for art preservation.
The temperature should be maintained between 68 and 72 degrees and
the humidity level should be between 50 and 55 percent.
- Smoking must be prohibited.
- An active pest control program should be in place.
Finally, your personal inspection of the facility is highly recommended,
as your observations during that visit are an invaluable tool in
making your final decision.
FORTRESS® has been providing Museum Quality Storage® for
23 years and is the leader in the industry. FORTRESS® also offers
a variety of services, including packing, transportation, shipping,
crating and installation. Please visit us at www.thefortress.com
for more information.
Boston
617-288-3636
New York
718-937-5500
Miami
305-374-6161
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Kimberly
Jones is the Vice President & General Manager of FORTRESS®
Miami and has managed the Miami operation for 22 years.
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