Blog

When disaster strikes—whether through water damage, fire, or time itself—recovering documents and archives becomes a priority. However, misconceptions about document recovery can lead to costly mistakes, leading to further deterioration. From freezing techniques to spot treatments, many so-called "fixes" do more harm than good.

[PRESS RELEASE] Boston, November 21, 2024 - Polygon, one of the largest global Property Damage Control and Temporary Climate Solutions providers, is pleased to announce they have partnered with WINT Water Intelligence, a leader in cutting-edge water management and risk mitigation solutions, to add real-time leak detection and auto shut-off water supply technology to their portfolio.

Document freeze-drying is a technique that professionals use to dry and restore books and documents that receive water damage. The process involves using a special chamber that has a high-pressure vacuum. When the chamber reaches the optimal temperature and pressure settings, the moisture in the documents sublimates. The sublimation process turns liquid water into a gaseous state. Freeze-drying eliminates moisture, prevents or halts mold growth, and avoids complications such as sticking, staining, warping, curling and over-drying. While freeze-drying is an effective solution, it is not the answer for all wet documents.

Arguably, the cornerstone of safeguarding archives and collections lies in prevention, which makes understanding potential threats crucial. This is why The Canadian Museum of Nature and the Canadian Conservation Institute have compiled a list of the top 10 agents of deterioration, identifying the primary hazards to historical objects. This compilation aims to assist in preventing and protecting valuable collections, whether housed in museums or homes.

As the chill of winter sets in, businesses and organizations face unique challenges in protecting their valuable documents and archives. Learn about winter's risks to your documents and how to apply practical tips for safeguarding them.