DVD Rot Fix - How To Store DVD For Long Term Easily

Part 1. What is Disc Rot and DVD Rot Causes

According to most manufacturers, DVD lifespan of commercial discs is about 50 years and burned DVDs will last for about 20-200 years. The read-write (RW) discs have a much shorter life - they won't last for 15 years. These figures are quite impressive.

But according to the US National Archives, DVD lifespan is less optimistic. Any unrecorded (blank) DVDs are expected to last for 5-10 years and the recorded DVDs will be around for about 2-5 years. This is the best result when the discs are stored in a cool, dark, and dry place. In fact, temperature, humidity, light exposure, surface-handling effects, and any other improper handling can produce DVD degradation faster than its claimed shelf-life.

What is DVD Disc Rot

DVD rot means the chemical degradation of the disc layer that makes the DVD unreadable. DVD rot occurs when the DVD is exposed to moisture and oxidizing compounds and the protective layer is not strong enough to protect the metal layer underneath the disc. There are many forms that indicate your DVDs go bad: DVD bronzing, DVD mold, DVD discoloration, and even when the DVD looks perfect outside. When you play the DVD, it may be unplayable or full of picture pixelating, freezing, and skipping.

A DVD is priced from $5 to $25 depending on what and when you buy it. This means you're going to lose money if DVD rot occurs and you have never created any digital DVD backups. If you have a very large DVD library, you do the math. Even worse, some old & classic DVDs are out of print. Good news is that many newer DVDs are sold with a digital DVD copy in it.

Typical Types of DVD Rot

DVD rot can manifest in several forms, with the most common types being: DVD bronzing, DVD discoloration, pinprick holes, complete data loss, etc. Below are the detailed information of different DVD rot types.

DVD bronzing: It is a specific type of disc rot that affects the reflective layer of a DVD, causing it to take on a metallic or bronze-like appearance. It's a visual indicator of the underlying chemical breakdown of the dye layer responsible for storing data on the disc. The affected area exhibits a bronze or copper-colored discoloration on the surface, often starting at the edges and gradually spreading towards the center.

Pinprick holes: These are tiny holes that appear on the surface of the disc, allowing light to pass through. They are caused by the breakdown of the dye layer. Pinprick holes can range in size from barely visible to large enough to be easily seen with the naked eye. They are often accompanied by other signs of DVD rot, such as discoloration and read errors.

DVD Discoloration: The disc may appear to have coffee stains or other discoloration. This is also caused by the breakdown of the dye layer. Discoloration can vary in severity, from a slight yellowing to a deep brown or blackening. It is often more noticeable on the inner portion of the disc, where the data is stored more densely.

Complete data loss: In the most severe cases of DVD rot, the disc may become completely unreadable, and all of the data will be lost. This can be a devastating blow, especially if the disc contains irreplaceable data, such as family photos or videos.

Common Causes of Disc Rot

Here's a deeper look at the main causes of DVD rot.

1. The Chemistry of Decay

At the heart of DVD rot lies the breakdown of the organic dye layer within the disc structure. This layer stores the data in the form of microscopic pits and lands. Over time, the chemicals in the dye layer can degrade due to various factors. This degradation disrupts the reflective properties of the layer, making it difficult for the laser to read the data accurately.

2. Age Takes Its Toll

Like all things, DVDs have a limited lifespan. As they age, the dye layer naturally degrades, increasing the risk of rot. The older the disc, the more susceptible it becomes.

3. Environmental Extremes

Improper storage conditions can significantly accelerate the degradation process. Here are some environmental enemies.

• Extreme Temperatures: High and low temperatures can damage the dye layer. Avoid storing DVDs in attics or near heat sources.
• Humidity Fluctuations: High humidity creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can further degrade the disc.
• Direct Sunlight: UV light from sunlight can break down the chemicals in the dye layer, hastening rot.

4. Manufacturing Mishaps

In some cases, manufacturing defects can contribute to DVD rot. For example, if the dye layer isn't properly sealed, it becomes more exposed to contaminants and degradation. The quality of the materials and manufacturing process used to create the DVD also plays a role. Lower-quality discs with inferior materials are generally more prone to rot.