How can you preserve homemade watercolor paintings?

Question:

How can you preserve homemade watercolor paintings?

I know if it's framed behind glass and out of direct sunlight, that helps. Is there anything else you can do to preserve the life of a watercolor painting?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: the life of a watercolor painting really depends on the type of paper it is on. if the paper has a high acid content, it will deteriorate in less than 2-3 years, even in the safest condition it may be. deteriorate in terms of colors fading and yellowing of the paper itself.... they say that the best way to preserve a watercolor painting is in its preparation, coupled with the best materials and proper display/storage.

but if you dont know the history of your watercolor painting, the best way to preserve it is to keep it away from light, away from humid places, and away from possible contaminants. in otherwords, if its new, display it, if its old, archive it. =)