FAQs
We are happy to answer any and all questions you may have.
Feel free to give us a call us at 207-774-1260 or send us an email at staff@cascobayframes.com
Frequently Asked Questions:
Are you open on Sundays?
No, we are open Monday-Friday 10-6 and Saturday 10-5.
Do I need an appointment?
No appointment needed! Feel free to drop by anytime during our business hours. If you prefer to make an appointment, we can set you up with one of our experienced designers. We also offer appointments before we open on a case by case basis– whether you have a large quantity of pieces to frame or your schedule prevents you from coming in during normal hours.
Where are you located?
We are located next to the Back Cove Hannaford on Forest Avenue. If you are looking directly at the Hannaford entrance from the parking lot, we are in the small strip mall attached to it on the left.
Do I have to bring in my art to get a quote?
Yes, we need the art to give you an accurate quote. Any quotes given over the phone are not absolute. The frames on our wall vary significantly in price depending on the style and company we order from.
Do you offer online design options?
If we have the art here, we can do designs remotely through email or video call. We also have an online design studio through Larson Juhl if you want to look at some options before you come in. The program allows you to share your design with us via email.
How long does it take to complete an order?
We are currently at a 3-4 week turn around time. We can complete orders sooner depending on the availability of materials. If you need something for less than 2 weeks, a rush fee may be applied and there are less design options to choose from.
Do I need glass?
For paintings on panel or canvas, glass is not necessary. Usually paintings have a protective varnish applied by the artist upon completion. We highly recommend putting glass over any works on paper or artwork sensitive to humidity. Leaving the art without a protective barrier can cause damage to it over time, including staining, dirt and dust build up, or mold growth.
What kind of glass types do you offer?
We offer regular, UV protective, and reduced glare museum-grade glass. We also offer regular, UV protective, and low glare museum plexiglass. Plexiglass has the same level of clarity as normal glass. It is ideal for oversized pieces and shipping, due to the lighter weight and lower chance of shattering during transit.
What is a mat?
A mat is a thin, flat piece of paper-based or fabric material included within a picture frame, which serves as additional decoration or to separate the art from the glass. The art sits underneath the mat with a window opening. The width varies based on balancing the overall design and personal preference. A starting rule of thumb is to have the mat margins twice the width of the frame.
Do I need a mat?
No, we can put your art directly into a frame. We recommend adding spacers in this situation, which are small strips of plastic that lift the glass up off the art. Putting glass directly on the art can cause them to stick together over time.
Can you fix a damaged frame or replace broken glass?
Yes, but it depends on the kind of damage. In most cases we can rejoin a frame if the corners have come apart. We would need to see the frame to fully assess the condition. We can dispose of and replace broken glass. Please don’t try to take the glass out yourself as it can scratch the art underneath, or cause severe injury.
Do you stretch paintings?
Yes, we can replace a warped stretcher or build a new one for an un-stretched painting. Many artists will ship their paintings rolled rather than stretched due to the size or cost of shipping. We stretch paintings of all sizes. The largest one we ever stretched was 17 feet long!
What are floater frames and what kind of art can I put in them?
A floater frame is a type of frame that creates an illusion of the artwork “floating” within it, achieved by leaving a small gap between the artwork and the frame’s inner edges. Floater frames typically have a minimalist design, with clean lines and a simple structure. This kind of frame is for stretched canvases or paintings on panel only. We are unable to put works on paper into this kind of frame.
Why are archival framing materials important?
Older framing materials, particularly mats and backing, are acidic. When exposed to UV light, they can turn brown over time and stain your artwork. The only way to remove the staining is to professionally restore the art, which can be an expensive process. Our materials keep your art in an ideal setting, preventing any further staining and deterioration. We also offer UV protective glass, as exposure to light can cause your artwork to fade over time. This includes prints on paper or photographs.
Do you deliver?
We deliver on a case by case basis. Please email tony@cascobayframes.com for more information.
Do you offer installation services?
We offer installations for individual home owners and large scale corporate orders on a case by case basis. Please email tony@cascobayframes.com for more information. If we are unable to do an install for you, we can refer you to another local company.
Do you print photos?
No, but we can direct you to a few local companies that do.
Do you offer restoration services?
No we do not offer restoration services for artwork or frames, but we can help you connect with someone who can.