Stephen Harris Frames Terms & Conditions

 1. General Information

   - These Terms and Conditions ("Terms") govern the services provided by Stephen Harris Frames] ("Company," "we," "our," or "us"), related to the framing, preservation, and display of artwork, photographs, and other materials ("Items").

   - By using our services, you ("Customer," "you," "your") agree to these Terms.

 

 2. Services Provided

   - We offer custom framing services, including but not limited to the framing of art, photographs, documents, and other Items.

   - Our services also include consultation on frame selection, matting, glass, and other materials, as well as installation services if requested.

 

 3. Customer Responsibilities

   - You must provide accurate and complete information regarding your Items, including any specific requirements or conditions.

   - It is your responsibility to inform us of any special handling instructions or conditions that may affect the framing process.

 

 4. Quotes and Pricing

   - All quotes provided by us are estimates and subject to change based on the final inspection of the Item and materials required.

   - Prices are based on the selected materials, labor, and any additional services requested.

   - A deposit may be required before work begins, with the balance due upon completion.

 

 5. Payments

   - We accept payments via [list payment methods, e.g., credit cards, debit cards, cash, etc.].

   - Payment in full is required before the release of the completed framed Item.

   - Invoices are payable within 5 days of the invoice date unless otherwise agreed upon in writing.

 

 6. Turnaround Time

   - Estimated turnaround times are provided at the time of order and are subject to change based on availability of materials, complexity of the job, and other factors.

   - We will make every effort to meet the estimated turnaround time but cannot guarantee specific deadlines.

 

 7. Liability and Insurance

   - Liability: While we take utmost care in handling your Items, we are not responsible for any damage that occurs before, during, or after the framing process unless due to our gross negligence. The maximum liability for any claim shall not exceed the value of the framing service provided.

   - Insurance Coverage: We provide insurance coverage for Items up to a value of £1,000 while they are in our possession. This coverage includes protection against accidental damage, theft, or loss.

   - Client Responsibility: For Items valued over £1,000, it is the responsibility of the Customer to arrange and maintain adequate insurance coverage. We strongly recommend that you ensure Items of higher value are properly insured, as we cannot accept liability for any damage, theft, or loss exceeding the £1,000 limit.

   - Proof of Value: You may be required to provide proof of the value of the Item(s) to qualify for the insurance coverage provided by us.

 

 8. Artwork and Material Handling

   - You agree that the Item you provide for framing is your property or that you have the legal right to have it framed.

   - We reserve the right to refuse to frame any Item that we believe may be illegal, offensive, or inappropriate.

 

 9. Conservation Framing Techniques

   - Commitment to Preservation: At Stephen Harris Frames, we understand the importance of preserving original artwork and other valuable items. That’s why we employ conservation framing techniques to protect and maintain the integrity of your items over time.

   - Acid-Free Materials: We use acid-free mat boards, backing boards, and adhesives to prevent the degradation of your artwork. Acidic materials can cause yellowing, brittleness, and other forms of damage over time, which is why we avoid them in our conservation framing process.

   - UV-Protective Glass: To safeguard your artwork from harmful ultraviolet (UV) light, which can cause fading and discoloration, we offer UV-protective glass options. These materials block a significant percentage of UV rays, helping to preserve the vibrancy of your artwork.

   - Reversible Mounting Methods: We use mounting techniques that are designed to be reversible, ensuring that your artwork can be removed from the frame in the future without damage. This includes the use of archival hinges, corners, and other non-invasive methods.

   - Consultation and Customization: During the consultation we will help you to select the best materials and techniques, with relevant costs, for your specific artwork, taking into account its unique characteristics and value. We provide expert advice to help you make informed decisions about the framing process.

 

 10. Risks of Wet Mounting

   - What is Wet Mounting?: Wet mounting is a process where artwork, photographs, or other items are adhered to a backing board using a liquid adhesive. This method can help to flatten and stabilize items, but it carries certain risks.

   - Potential Risks: While wet mounting can be effective for certain items, there are specific risks involved:

      - Irreversible Process: Wet mounting is a permanent process. Once an item has been wet mounted, it cannot be removed from the backing without causing significant damage.

      - Moisture Sensitivity: The liquid adhesive may penetrate the item, potentially leading to warping, wrinkling, or distortion, especially with moisture-sensitive materials.

      - Bleeding or Staining: The adhesive could cause inks, dyes, or pigments to bleed or stain, particularly on delicate or older items.

      - Surface Damage: The adhesive and pressure applied during the process could damage the surface of the item, altering its appearance or texture.

      - Air Bubbles and Residue: Improper application can result in air bubbles or adhesive residue, which may be difficult to correct without causing further damage.

      - Impact on Value: Wet mounting may decrease the value of collectible or valuable items due to its irreversible nature.

   - Customer Acknowledgement: By choosing to have an item wet mounted, you acknowledge that you understand and accept these risks. We will not be held responsible for any loss of value or damage resulting from the wet mounting process.

   - Consultation: We recommend discussing your specific needs and concerns with us before deciding to proceed with wet mounting, especially if the item is of significant value or sentiment.

 

 11. Cancellations and Refunds

   - Orders may be canceled within 5 days of placement. After this period, any costs incurred by the Company may be deducted from any refunds.

   - Custom framing orders are non-refundable once work has begun, as they are made to your specific requirements.

   - Refunds will be issued only in the case of defective work or materials and must be claimed within 30 days of receipt of the framed item.

 

 12. Collection of Completed Work

   - You must collect your completed framed Item within 14 days of notification that it is ready unless agreed in writing.

   - Items not collected within 30 days will incur storage fees. After 6 months, uncollected Items may be disposed of or sold to recover costs.

 

 13. Intellectual Property

   - Any design or artwork created by the Company in the course of framing remains the intellectual property of the Company unless otherwise agreed upon in writing.

 

 14. Privacy Policy

   - We respect your privacy and will handle your personal information in accordance with our Privacy Policy. Your information will not be shared with third parties without your consent, except as required by law.

 

 15. Governing Law

   - These Terms and any dispute arising out of or in connection with them shall be governed by the laws of The United Kingdom.

   - Any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts located in The United Kingdom.

 

16. Changes to Terms

   - We reserve the right to amend these Terms at any time. The latest version of the Terms will be available on our website or upon request.

 

17. Contact Information

   - For any questions or concerns regarding these Terms or our services, please contact us at stephen@stephenharrisframes.co.uk.