Piano Restoration, When Is It Needed?
A piano with its thousands of moving parts and beautiful cabinet is a work of art. Pianos are very durable and many pianos still exist from the “hey day” of pianos in the first part of the 20th century when there were over 200 manufacturer’s in the United States alone. Many of these pianos are in various need of repair and many need complete piano restoration. Because the wear and tear on a piano happens gradually over time the need for repair and refurbishing goes somewhat unnoticed until the piano is simply left un-played due to the deficient condition. Many things happen to pianos over time. Felt and leather compress affecting the adjustment of the moving parts and how the piano plays. Squeaks and rattles develop. Parts become broken or non-functional after extended wear. Seasonal changes in heat and humidity take their toll on the wooden parts which can cause everything from cracks, finish deterioration, tuning instability and loss of tone production just to name a few.
When does piano restoration need to be considered? This depends on the quality of the original piano manufacturer. Other things to consider would be the environment the piano has been in over the years and the amount of use. Some may need piano restoration after just 25 years while others may need it after 50. The best way to decide is to get a professional opinion and find out what exactly the piano will need. All piano restorations are different with many choices and levels depending on the performance requirements and needs of each customer. The more information you have about what your piano needs and what will be done in the restoration the better prepared you will be. Itemized lists of exactly what will be done are a good idea so that you know exactly what you are getting. If you are uncertain whether the piano needs major repairs have an evaluation done by a qualified piano technician who specializes in piano rebuilding. Discuss costs and repair options with them and what the restored piano will be like after the work has been completed.
