I thought I'd report back on my contact frame after some use. For 3 days I stored it with the back closed and the springs in the compressed position. and they DID lose some of their strength. but they were still every bit as good as the original wooden frame with steel springs. Since then I have stored it with the plastic springs uncompressed. I've made quite a few prints, and they are still capable of putting a pretty strong smash on the negatve/paper sandwich. Excellent contact, even with warped and wavy paper. I consider this a success in every way. Does a great job.