Winter in New York State brings unique challenges to the preservation of paper and photographic collections. While cozy fires and snowy landscapes may be picturesque, the cold season poses significant risks to these delicate materials due to fluctuating environmental conditions, increased reliance on heating systems, and seasonal hazards like water leaks. This post delves into these risks and provides strategies to mitigate them, ensuring your collections stay safe through winter’s chill.
Environmental Fluctuations
Winter often brings sharp temperature drops and low relative humidity, both of which can stress paper and photographic materials. Paper fibers expand and contract with temperature and humidity changes. Frequent fluctuations can lead to brittleness, warping, and increased risk of tearing. Photographs are particularly sensitive to low humidity, which can cause emulsion layers to crack or peel away from their backing. Conversely, a sudden rise in humidity—often due to uneven heating—can lead to mold growth and adhesion between photographic layers.
Use HVAC systems to maintain stable temperature (65–72°F) and humidity levels (35–50% RH). Monitor the environment with automated dataloggers or track manually with thermometer/hygrometers to detect fluctuations early. If additional environmental control is warranted, install humidifiers or dehumidifiers to stabilize relative humidity.
Heating Systems and Air Quality
Heating systems, while essential in winter, can introduce risks like dry air and airborne particulates. Central heating systems can dry out the air, exacerbating the risk of brittleness in paper and cracking in photographs. Forced-air heating can circulate dust and pollutants, which may settle on collections and accelerate degradation.
Store and display collections away from direct heat sources like radiators and vents. Use HEPA filters in HVAC systems to reduce airborne particulates. Ensure collections are stored in boxes and housings, which can slow the reaction of materials inside to fluctuations in the environment and offer protection from pollutants.
Water Damage from Leaks and Condensation
Snow and ice accumulation on rooftops and gutters can lead to leaks, which pose a serious risk of water damage. Frozen pipes at risk of bursting are also a wintertime hazard. Water exposure can lead to staining, ink bleeding, and paper disintegration. For photographs, moisture can cause emulsion layers to swell and stick, leading to irreversible damage.
Regularly inspect roofs, gutters, and windows for signs of leaks or ice dams. Keep collections elevated off the floor and away from exterior walls. Consider investing in water sensors for early detection of leaks. If your institution has any unheated spaces, prevent frozen pipes by allowing faucets to drip slightly to maintain water flow and insulate exposed pipes in those unheated areas. For further information, check out CCAHA’s information about winterizing historic buildings.
Pests Seeking Shelter
Winter drives pests indoors seeking heat and food, where they may find collections storage an ideal refuge. Silverfish, rodents, and cockroaches are common culprits that can damage paper and photographic materials. Rodents may nest in paper, while insects can feed on paper and bindings.
To mitigate entry points, seal cracks and gaps in windows, doors, and foundations. Store collections in pest-resistant containers or enclosures, such as boxes or sleeves. Conduct routine inspections and maintain an integrated pest management (IPM) plan.
Human Activity and Seasonal Hazards
Seasonal decorations, increased visitors, or staff shortages can inadvertently put collections at risk. Strings of lights or live greenery can introduce fire hazards or pests. Increased activity near collections can lead to accidental handling or spills.
Set clear policies for seasonal decorations, emphasizing safety. Train staff and volunteers on proper handling and storage protocols for this season as well as throughout the year. Limit access to sensitive collections during high-traffic events.
Protecting paper and photographic collections during winter requires vigilance and proactive measures. By stabilizing environmental conditions, safeguarding against heating and water risks, and addressing seasonal hazards, institutions can weather winter’s challenges with confidence, ensuring their collections remain safe and intact until spring arrives.
Do you have a preservation topic, question, or creative solution you would like us to cover in this series? Reach us by email at info@DHPSNY.org, or connect with us on the DHPSNY Facebook page or DHPSNY Community Facebook Group.