How Do Pros Restore Fire-Damaged Photos and Albums?

When you first discover fire-damaged photos, resist the urge to touch them. Soot is abrasive and can scratch the emulsion, while moisture from firefighting can make prints stick together. Place items in a sealed container or plastic bag, but never let them sit in heat or direct sunlight.

The pros start by assessing the damage level, checking for soot, smoke residue, and water exposure. They also inspect for any lingering odors or chemical residues that could affect the paper. This step helps decide whether the photos can be restored on-site or need more controlled handling.

• Do not wipe or brush soot off photos yourself.
• Keep photos in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
• Separate photos with wax paper if they are not stuck.
• Avoid using any liquids or cleaning solutions on your own.
• Photograph or scan undamaged copies for backup.

Firefighting water can cause photos to swell, curl, or stick together. If photos are wet, the pros may freeze them to stop further damage, especially if they cannot be dried immediately. Freezing prevents mold and keeps the emulsion from dissolving.

For damp photos, they use controlled air drying with low humidity and gentle air movement. They might place photos between blotting papers and change them regularly. This process requires patience, as rushing can cause the paper to warp or the image to blur.

• Freeze wet photos in a sealed bag if you cannot dry them soon.
• Never use a hairdryer or oven to dry photos.
• Handle wet photos by the edges to avoid fingerprints.
• Keep photos flat, not rolled, while drying.
• Do not try to peel apart stuck photos while wet.

If your photos are valuable or severely damaged, professional restoration is worth considering. The pros have specialized equipment and techniques that are not available at home. They can also handle large quantities, such as entire albums or boxes of prints.

For minor soot, you might try gentle dry cleaning with a soft brush, but always test on a less important photo first. If you live in Bellingham, the mild marine climate can affect drying times, so keep items in a dry indoor space. See a doctor if you feel unwell from smoke exposure.