Flooded Acrylic Art Care
Drying Out Flooded Acrylic Paintings
If your acrylic paintings have been affected by flooding, here are some steps you can take to dry them out and minimize damage:
Remove excess water: Gently blot the surface of the painting with a clean, soft cloth or paper towel to remove any standing water. Be careful not to rub or press too hard to avoid damaging the paint surface.
Separate paintings: If multiple paintings are stuck together, carefully separate them while they are still damp to prevent further sticking or tearing.
Allow to air dry: Place the painting in a well-ventilated area, preferably with a fan gently blowing air across it. Avoid direct sunlight or high heat, as this can cause the paint to crack or warp.
Lay paintings flat: To prevent warping, lay the painting flat on a clean, dry surface. If the canvas is sagging, gently pull it taut before placing it on a flat surface.
Use absorbent materials: Place absorbent materials like paper towels or towels underneath and around the edges of the canvas to soak up moisture from the backing.
Monitor regularly: Check the paintings periodically to ensure they are drying evenly. Adjust the airflow or reposition the paintings if necessary.
Restretch if necessary: If the canvas warps or sags, you may need to restretch it once it's fully dry.
Retouch damaged areas: Once the painting is dry, assess any damage to the paint layer. You might need to touch up certain areas with fresh acrylic paint if there is peeling or cracking.
Disclaimer: We are not professional restoration experts, but experienced painters. For severe damage, such as mold or significant warping, we recommend consulting a professional art restorer.