frame going in an unusual spot

[dougie]

i'm getting a fairly valuable print to frame,it is going in a pretty exposed spot,not quite outside but near as,and close to the sea (part of a WW11 memorial ),its going to have to be watertight,im no sure on what to use for the back,i think the aqua barrier backing boards will be too light and mdf just aint up to it either,was thinking about either glass or perspex over a backing board and siliconed in,anyone done similar?

[Custard]

So this will sit outside and be exposed to the elements? If so I can't see how you'd avoid it misting up from condensation. Look at what happens to double glazed units if there's even a pin hole puncture.

[huntvambo]

For a large quite valuable print that was going above the kitchen sink, yes really! I used Correx Fluted Polyrprop (page 45 Lions) and aluminum frame sealing tape (Lions page 74).

I used the ali tape to seal the frame package, backing, print, mount, glass and then used the same tape in the frame rebate and to seal the Correx into the frame. Once all assembled I waxed the front and back and into the mitres.

Are you using UV glass?

[framemaker]

Is it worth thinking about getting a copy printed up? with the quality of modern printers nobody would know the difference, and the valuable original print could be displayed indoors or put away for safe keeping.

Either way, I would use acrylic on the front, Correx on the back, aluminium barrier tape, oak frame varnished all over, corners joined with something rust proof or plastic keys, and probably silicone the glazing/mount/backing sandwich in the frame just for good measure.

[prospero]

Actually, making it watertight is probably the worst thing in this situation. If it gets the slightest bit of warm sun on it, it's going to be swimming. Acrylic on the front wouldn't make any difference.

If the owners imagine that it can somehow be made weatherproof and still stay valuable, I'm afraid they are sorely mistaken.

Framing a replaceable copies is a much better idea. Assuming it's legal to do so.