The hurricanes of the past two years have created some serious challenges for owners of fine artworks and those who insure them. Not only did precious Picassos, Ruebens, and Monets have to be protected from direct storm damage, but after the storms passed many owners and insurance companies had to worry about damage from one of the insurance industry's current nemeses — mold.

An original Monet in collectible condition could be worth millions, and is probably insured against damage accordingly. With fuzzy growths of mold on it, the value would be considerably less. That's what many owners are worried about and what they are going to visualize when they think of mold — fuzzy growths that don't belong in Monet's impressionistic gardens or on his water lilies.

There is no question that mold can harm or even destroy a wide variety of artwork. Mold can stain paper and canvas while eating the very molecules they consist of. Mold can break down paint films, destroy photographic emulsions, rot textiles, and bloom on furniture finishes. In certain circumstances, mold can even grow on and etch metal and glass. If mold exists on artwork, it should be addressed. Note the use of the word addressed, not eliminated.