MINNESOTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY
SALVAGE OF WATER DAMAGED COLLECTIONS
INORGANICS: CERAMICS, GLASS, METALS, STONE (Decorative/Historic)
| Priority: | These materials can be dealt with last since they generally will suffer little damage from short term exposure to water. |
| Handling Precautions: | Move items only after a place has been prepared to receive them. |
| Packing Method: | Varies with the fragility of the material; water/wetness has no bearing. |
| Preparation for drying: | Rinse or sponge with clear water to remove mud or dirt before drying. |
| Drying Procedure: | Sponges, clean towels, paper towels, or unused newsprint may be used to absorb excess moisture. Exchange wet for dry blotting material at least daily until items are dry. Check daily for mold growth.
Air dry, using fans to keep air moving without blowing directly on the pieces. Raise items off the floor on trestles or 2x4 lumber to allow air to circulate underneath the items. Metal objects can be dried with moderate heat (90-100 F in an oven or using a heater or hair dryer. Use portable dehumidifiers to slowly remove moisture from the area/objects. Bring relative humidity downto 50%. |
Minnesota Historical Society Disaster Preparedness Plan 6/93