When you're investing in custom framing for a precious piece of art, a family heirloom, or a sentimental photograph, asking the right questions about materials can mean the difference between a frame that lasts decades and one that fades or deteriorates within years. The materials your framer chooses directly affect the longevity, appearance, and total cost of your project. Here's what you need to know before you hand over your artwork.
Understanding Frame Materials
Frame stock comes in several varieties, each with distinct durability and aesthetic qualities. Wood frames are the industry standard, ranging from softwoods like pine (budget-friendly, $20–$50 per linear foot) to hardwoods like oak, maple, and walnut (higher-end, $40–$150+ per linear foot). Metal frames—aluminum and steel—offer a sleek, contemporary look and typically cost $25–$80 per linear foot. Some framers also work with composite or MDF (medium-density fiberboard) cores wrapped in veneer, which fall in the $15–$40 range but are less durable over decades.
Ask your framer to show you actual samples and compare the grain, finish quality, and weight. Premium wood frames should feel substantial; cheap frames often feel hollow or flex when you pick them up.
Matting: UV Protection and Archival Standards
The mat board sitting between your artwork and glass is critical. Standard mat board ($3–$8 per sheet) contains lignin and acid that can yellow, fade, or even stain your piece over time. Archival or museum-quality mat board ($15–$30 per sheet) is acid-free and lignin-free, dramatically extending your artwork's lifespan.
For valuable pieces—original paintings, vintage photographs, signed prints, or anything with sentimental worth—always request archival-grade mat board. Framers should disclose whether they're using standard or archival materials upfront; if they don't mention it, ask directly. The difference in cost is often $20–$50 per frame but protects a potentially irreplaceable piece.
Glass and Glazing Options
Glass choices dramatically affect how your artwork is protected and displayed:
- Standard glass: Clear, affordable ($2–$5), but offers no UV protection and can cause glare.
- Anti-UV glass: Blocks 99% of UV rays ($8–$15), significantly slowing fading. Ideal for photographs and textiles.
- Conservation glass: Anti-UV plus anti-reflective coating ($15–$30), eliminating glare while protecting against light damage. Best for fine art.
- Acrylic: Lightweight, shatter-resistant, cheaper ($3–$8), but scratches easily and yellows over time. Use only for casual, low-value pieces.
High-value artwork or pieces exposed to direct sunlight should get conservation glass or at minimum anti-UV glass. Ask your framer what's included in their quoted price—many framers bundle standard glass into base costs but upcharge significantly for upgrades.
Backing and Spacers
Don't overlook what goes behind your artwork. Acid-free backing board prevents deterioration from the back side and costs just $2–$5 more than standard cardboard backing. For valuable pieces, ask about ragboard backing, which is 100% cotton fiber and archival-safe.
Spacers—small foam or paper pieces that hold artwork away from the glass—matter too, especially for textiles, pastels, or three-dimensional pieces. They prevent contact damage and moisture buildup. Quality framers include these without extra charge; cheaper operations sometimes skip them.
Asking the Right Questions Before You Decide
When you meet with a framer, bring a written list:
- What grade of mat board do you use as standard, and what's the upcharge for archival?
- Is UV or conservation glass included, or what glass options do you offer?
- What backing material do you recommend for [your specific artwork]?
- Can you provide samples or a cost breakdown showing material differences?
- Do you offer a warranty on materials, and what does it cover?
- How long does the frame last before visible fading or yellowing?
A reputable custom framer will answer these questions clearly and show you options at different price points. If a framer rushes through material choices or dismisses your questions, that's a red flag.
Services like Mercoly let you compare trusted custom picture framing providers in one place, making it easier to request quotes from multiple framers and see how their material choices and pricing stack up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is archival matting really necessary, or is it marketing hype? No—archival materials genuinely preserve artwork better over decades, especially for photographs, prints, and watercolors. Standard mat board can cause visible yellowing and staining within 5–10 years if your piece is valuable or sentimental.
Q: What's the difference between anti-UV glass and conservation glass? Anti-UV glass blocks ultraviolet light, which prevents fading; conservation glass does that plus eliminates reflective glare. Conservation glass is pricier but eliminates the need to view your frame head-on.
Q: Should I choose acrylic for lightweight artwork to save money? Only if the piece is casual or temporary—acrylic scratches easily, yellows over time, and looks noticeably less professional than glass or conservation glass on display.
Start comparing framing services today to find a provider who matches your materials budget and quality expectations.