We often get online requests for information, and what is important to one person, might be important to others too, so we decided to share this reply.

 Our family home will be put up for rent until an estate dispute is settled. Numerous paintings and ornaments as well as some pieces of furniture need to be stored in the interim. Although your website states all your safety measures, we are anxious about making the right decision. Please advise us regarding dangers like theft, fire, mildew and bugs.

                                                                                                                         The Southport family

Dear Family Members,

Your worries are understandable, but we can assure you that your treasures are in safe hands. The floodlit premises are secured with a CCTV monitor system. As to mildew, the units are probably drier than your lounge.

Some preparation is necessary. Your paintings must never be stored lying flat on top of one another. Make sure that the back of the frame is completely covered with brown paper. Cushion the corners with extra layers of paper or cardboard and bubble-wrap it. Store upright on a pallet – never directly on a floor. Unframed canvasses should be rolled up loosely with the paint on the outside, preferably around a tube, covered with cotton fabric or layers of brown paper. Again, store upright.  Do not carry the paintings by the top section of the frame. Use the string or grab it on the sides with both hands. Always store art away from direct light.

Paintings on canvas – oil and acrylic –  are seldom behind glass. Some kind of board between them is advisable. Watercolours and ink or pencil drawings on paper are easily damaged by damp, direct light and insects and therefore need some extra care. Although the units are vermin free, you can, for your own peace of mind, add a few mothballs to the wrapping. It will take care of eggs or larvae that may already be behind the backing. If unframed, do not store in plastic bags unless covered with acid-free paper.

  • Number your paintings and ornaments with a short description of each and keep the list, if only to assist your memory.
  • Pack ornaments in sturdy boxes. Use enough packing material, paper or plastic foam chips.
  • Cover sharp edges and add extra protection for fragile parts. Label the boxes – again, for your own convenience.
  • Furniture should be protected against accidental knocks and scratches. Pay attention to delicate carvings, corners and edges.
  • Wood that is not varnished can be treated with a commercial oil, suitable to the type of wood. Do not use any product that will turn sticky, e.g. linseed oil.

We hope this information will come in handy, and we look forward to look after your storage needs.

The team at Fort Lytton Self Storage.

Fort Lytton Self Storage is located at 1853 Lytton Road, Lytton, in Brisbane, Queensland. You can contact us at (07) 3893 4532, or visit us online at www.fortlyttonselfstorage.com.au