Stam House   בית הסת"ם

The Torah is the beating heart of the Jewish nation. Torah Scrolls were written in the Diaspora using different methods, on various types of parchment and different types of ink.

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Over time, there could be damage to the letters or parchment of the Torah Scrolls.  In some cases, the ink fades into different shades of reddish-brown, and in others, the ink disintegrates, which can result in broken and crumbling, or even disappearance of letters. Without proper care, even slight damage can progress and cause the Torah Scroll to be deemed Non-Kosher for ceremonial use.

The deterioration of a Torah Scoll can be the result of the use of inferior materials, improper usage, lack of usage, dampness, water, fungus, or mold.  Full evaluation of the current condition of the Torah Scroll is an important first step to determine if there are any Halachic problems and the method of treatment needed.  

The restoration process of the Torah Scroll begins with cleaning and removing the damaging elements.  Once this stage is completed, then the Torah Scroll is preserved, and all holes, tears in seams and parchment are mended.  In the final stage, the damaged letters are repaired, retaining the orginal Scribes' writing style. The Sefer Torah undergoes a computerized evaluation which proof-reads the scroll to prevent any errors.  Throughout the restoration process, every effort is made to preserve the unique characer of each individual scroll. The Torah Scroll is then returned to the community, completely restored and Kosher. 

The many years of experience that Yaacov acquired in restoring old Torah Scrolls that were rescued from the Holocaust, from Iraq, North Africa, Europe, and the United States, have imbued him with the capability to treat every type of Sefer Torah.  

Knowledge of the types of materials used in the different countries of origin and appreciation of the Jewish traditions of these countries, enable Stam House to restore the greatness and glory of these Sifrei Torah for many years to come.