There’s nothing like big, bold props to capture the public’s attention and create a memorable brand experience. How long that experience lasts is up to you! Sometimes, the massive sculptures that we build at Smash Design are meant to be displayed only a short time—maybe just for a single event. Others are meant to weather all seasons and be enjoyed again and again. That kind of longevity calls for a little maintenance to ensure these works of art stay looking impressive for years. When cared for correctly, our large props can become a long-term asset for any brand. Here are a few tips on how to maintain and store your large props for longevity!
Clean Regularly
The first step in maintaining your large props is to keep them clean. Dust and dirt can eventually cause the paint to look dull and may even affect the structural integrity if left unattended. The best way to clean large props is with a gentle touch:
- Use a soft-bristle brush or a microfiber cloth to remove surface dust.
- For localized spots, a damp cloth with mild soapy water can be used, followed by a dry cloth to avoid moisture absorption.
If your sculptures require more than a gentle scrub to clean, don’t break out your wire bush just yet. Hard scrubbing can damage these props. Instead, contact us for heavier cleaning or touch-ups.
Store in a Climate-Controlled Environment
Storing large props in a climate-controlled environment is crucial for their longevity. Extreme temperatures and humidity can warp, crack, or promote the growth of mold on your props. Ensure your storage area is:
- Clean and dry with consistent temperature and humidity levels, and
- Spacious enough to avoid compressing or bending parts of the props.
Some props are best stored in custom crates to keep them out of the elements and make them easier to stack and move. If you need crates for your props, just ask!
Protect Them From Weather
Our hard-coated, painted foam props are always robust enough for outdoor use. However, regular exposure to sun, rain, or wind can degrade their materials. When not in use:
- Keep large props indoors or under a canopy to protect them from direct sunlight and precipitation, and
- Use a breathable cover to shield from dust and debris if outdoor storage is unavoidable.
When protected from prolonged weather exposure, these sculptures can last a very long time. When you take them out of the elements and into storage, be sure to clean them and/or dry them thoroughly before putting them away.
Make Prompt Repairs
Even with the utmost care, large props can suffer from wear and tear over time, particularly if they are moved and assembled multiple times. They’re meant to be touched, but damage comes with the territory, unfortunately. To keep your props looking their best:
- Inspect props regularly for chips, cracks, or peeling paint, and
- Conduct immediate repairs to prevent further damage.
Do your props require a bit more than small repairs and maintenance? Contact us today, and we can restore your pieces to their original condition.
Keep Accurate Inventory
Maintaining an inventory with detailed descriptions of each piece will help in the care and future use of your props. This should include:
- Photographs from different angles,
- Measurements and notes on special features, and
- Logs of any repairs and maintenance work done.
This written history will help your organization keep track of any fragile points on your sculptures and maintain a record of what they looked like when brand-new. If you need to contact us later with any questions about their original paint or condition, please reach out anytime!
Contact the Pros for Assistance
The key takeaway to caring for large props is diligence. Regular maintenance, proper storage, and timely repairs will add years to the life of these impressive pieces. Being proactive in the care of your large props ensures they continue to engage and inspire audiences throughout their extended lifespan.
Sometimes, of course, the maintenance required for large props may be beyond simple cleaning and minor touch-ups. If you are faced with significant damage or specialized maintenance needs, consult with the professionals at Smash Design. Our expertise can guide you through repairs and preservation methods, or we can handle it for you. Feel free to contact us now with any questions you may have about the proper care for your giant props! No one cares for them more than we do!