We all know the areas of our property where it's suitable to hang a picture frame, whether it be the living room, our bedroom, the kitchen, or the dining room. But what about rooms or areas of our property where it's not suitable to hang picture frames? Are there any, or are we able to simply hang picture frames wherever we want to in a manner which won't negatively impact them?
The rooms where it's best to avoid hanging picture frames
In uninsulated spaces such as sunrooms, garages and attics, it is likely not advisable to hang any picture frame that you would like to continue to be in pristine condition. This is because these types of spaces often see massive swings in temperature and humidity throughout the year. These changes can then potentially lead to frame joints being cracked, and wooden backings becoming warped, as well as causing photos to stick to the glass.
There is the added threat of intense UV exposure for frames that are hung in sunrooms, which can lead to the colours in the art becoming faded. For those who are determined to still hang picture frames in these types of rooms, it will require the use of materials that are non-porous and thermally stable. It is advisable to avoid using wooden frames and instead house whatever is inside them in a metal frame; this is because, unlike wood, metal frames don't expand, contract, or rot when the humidity rises.
It is also worth avoiding hanging picture frames directly above a cooktop or range, as it is very risky to do so. Things like steam, grease, airborne cooking oils and direct heat have the potential to coat the frame. This, of course, is something you definitely do not want to happen and is therefore best avoided. The longer the frame is hung above the cooktop or range, the larger the amount of grease is likely to build up on the exterior. The long-term impact of the ongoing heat and humidity will be damage to the artwork inside the frame, or whatever else has been placed in the frame.
Another room where it is advisable not to hang a picture frame is a high-moisture bathroom. In general, any bathroom that has a bath or a shower — which, let's face it, virtually all of them have — is likely to be an area of your home where hanging a frame is best avoided. This is because steam and high humidity will, without a doubt, creep behind the glass. This, in turn, can lead to the warping of wooden frames, rippled paper, and mould or mildew growth on the art. However, for those who have a bathroom that contains only a half-bath or powder room with just a toilet and sink, you are likely to have nothing to worry about, as it probably won't create the amount of steam that could cause damage.
You can, of course, hang picture frames wherever you want in your own home, including in the above rooms. Certain rooms can, however, cause them or whatever is housed inside them to become damaged, as explained above.