Vinyl records are a physical medium for storing and playing music. They are made of a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) disc with a spiral groove cut into it. The groove contains the audio signal, which is read by a stylus as the record spins.
What happens if vinyl records get wet?
The vinyl itself is not damaged by water, but the inner sleeve, outer jacket, and label can be. The inner sleeve is the paper sleeve that the record is placed in. The outer jacket is the cardboard sleeve that the inner sleeve and record are placed in. The label is the sticker in the center of the record that contains the album title, artist, and tracklist.
Water can cause the inner sleeve and outer jacket to warp and wrinkle. It can also cause the label to peel off. If the water is dirty, it can also leave residue on the record, which can cause playback problems.
In addition to water damage, vinyl records can also be damaged by mold and mildew. Mold and mildew can grow on records that have been exposed to water or moisture. They can cause the record to become discolored and unplayable.
How to prevent water damage to vinyl records
The best way to prevent water damage to vinyl records is to store them in a cool, dry place. You should also use protective sleeves for each record. These sleeves will help to protect the record from scratches and dust, as well as from water damage.
If you live in a humid climate, you may want to consider storing your records in a sealed container. This will help to keep them away from moisture.
How to fix water-damaged vinyl records
If your vinyl records have been exposed to water, you can try to fix them by following these steps:
- Remove the records from the inner sleeve and outer jacket.
- Gently pat the records dry with a clean cloth.
- Do not use heat to dry the records. Heat can warp the records.
- Store the records in a cool, dry place until they are completely dry.
If the records are still unplayable after they have dried, you may need to take them to a professional for further restoration.
Conclusion
Vinyl records are a delicate medium that can be easily damaged by water. By following the tips in this article, you can help to prevent water damage to your vinyl records and keep them in good condition for many years to come.
Here are some additional tips for storing and caring for vinyl records:
- Keep your records away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid storing your records in direct heat or cold.
- Do not stack your records too high.
- Clean your records regularly with a soft cloth.
- Replace any damaged sleeves or jackets.
