Whether they were exposed to UV radiation, excessive heat, or simple storage mistakes, it is possible for your vinyl records to become warped.Depending on the severity of the warp, there are a few methods you can use to try and repair it.You can either let the record sit between heavy objects for a while or use a combination of heat and pressure to repair it.To avoid having to repeat these processes too often, it is crucial to know how to prevent warping.
Step 1: Two large objects should be gathered.
To cover the entire record, these objects need to be wide.They have to be heavy enough to put pressure on the record.Two large books are best for this.
Step 2: The warped record should be between the objects.
A table is the first object to be put on a flat surface.The record should be atop the object followed by your second heavy object.If any part sticks out, they may be warped, so make sure the objects cover as much of the record as possible.Make sure the record is clean before you place it between the objects.You don't want a grain of sand grinding into your record.
Step 3: Prepare to wait a while.
This is the longest method you will use.It will take some time to un-warp your record because you are relying on constant, gradual pressure.Prepare to wait a long time for the record to be un-warped.
Step 4: The record should be between the sheets of glass.
The record should be atop the first piece of glass.Put the second sheet on top of the record, sandwiching it between the glass panes.If you leave one of their corners hanging off of the table as you set it up, it will be easier to pick up the glass sheets afterwards.
Step 5: Place the record in the oven at 175 F.
preheating should take between 10 and 15 minutes depending on your oven.Once the oven has reached the right temperature, slide the record and glass combination onto the rack.It will be easier to retrieve the glass later if you push it too far into the oven.Before putting the glass in the oven, make sure it's at room temperature.The oven mitts should be used to avoid burns.
Step 6: Allow the record to sit in the oven for 3 minutes.
The record could melt if this is longer than this.As it warms, keep a close eye on the record.Remove the record if you notice strange smells or noises.
Step 7: The record should be removed from the oven.
As the glass will be hot to the touch, use oven mitts.Place the glass on a surface that is flat.You may want to place a potholder, towel, or cutting board between the glass and your surface to protect it.
Step 8: Place a heavy object in the center of the glass.
The heat and constant pressure will help to repair the record.Leave the object on the glass.You can remove the record once the glass has cooled.
Step 9: Carefully inspect the record.
Try repeating the steps until the record is fixed.If you can repair the damage, place it in a record player.
Step 10: Store your records away from the sun.
They can be left in the sun or heat.The records should be kept away from windows and heating.It is important to make sure you do not leave your records in a vehicle on a hot day.
Step 11: Don't stack your records.
Stacking vinyl records atop each other puts a lot of pressure on the records at the bottom of the pile.They can get scratched and warped.Make sure you store your records vertically.
Step 12: Keep your records away from the humidity.
Most people store their records in a basement, but the humidity in these spaces will warp them.Try to find a place that isn't too humid.If your only choice is a basement, you should consider installing a dehumidifier to store your records.