Piano Restoration — Frequently Asked Questions

Expert Piano Restoration Services in Somerset, Devon, and the South West

Thinking of Restoring Your Piano? Start Here

If you're considering Piano Restoration, but aren't sure where to begin, you're not alone. Below are some of the most common questions we hear from piano owners — whether it's a family heirloom, an antique gem, or a cherished instrument that's seen better days.

Does my piano need restoring?

Whether your piano needs restoring depends on several factors—and ultimately, your goals for the instrument. Restoration typically involves major work such as rebuilding the action, restringing, repairing or replacing the soundboard, and refinishing the case. It’s often necessary when a piano is structurally deteriorated, no longer holds tune, or has become unplayable due to age or wear.

Some owners choose restoration for sentimental reasons, especially if the piano is a family heirloom. Others are motivated by the instrument’s historical or musical value, particularly with high-quality brands where restoration can return the piano to concert-level condition.

Signs your piano may need restoration include a weak or uneven tone, sticking or sluggish keys, tuning instability, or visible damage to the case or finish. A proper assessment by an experienced piano restorer can help you understand the current condition of your instrument, and whether restoration, or a more modest repair, makes sense.

How much does piano restoration cost?

The cost of Piano Restoration varies based on your piano's age, brand, and condition. Whether you need Grand Piano Restoration, Upright Piano Restoration, or specialist services like re-stringing or Wrest plank replacement, we always provide a detailed quote after assessing your instrument. Contact us today with any questions you may have.

How often does my piano need regulating?

The industry standard advice for regulation is that it should be checked every 5 years, but there are many variables to consider. Many factors can influence how often your upright or grand piano needs regulating including the age and wear of the action parts, the climate it’s in, how recently it’s played, and also its build quality. The likelihood is that nearly every piano could benefit from some attention.

How do I know if my piano can be restored?

Ultimately the best way to assess the condition of your piano is to contact a local piano restorer. There are many myths that get spread around about when a piano is beyond repair, some more true than others! Unless the piano has been excessively damaged by water, fire, woodworm, or been kept outside, then there’s usually something to work with.

How long does piano restoration take?

Restoration timelines depend on your piano's condition and the scope of work required. More extensive projects like a full Grand Piano Restoration may take several months. Our experience allows us to provide estimated timeframes that are usually pretty accurate. As a rough guideline, a full piano restoration can take around 6-10 weeks,

Is it worth restoring an old piano?

In many cases, yes. Quality Piano Restoration can bring new life to older or antique pianos, often costing less than purchasing a comparable new instrument. If your piano has sentimental value or historical significance, restoration is a rewarding investment — especially for Antique Piano Restoration projects.

What’s the difference between piano restoration and piano repair?

Piano Repair typically addresses specific faults, such as sticking keys or broken strings. Piano Restoration, on the other hand, is a comprehensive process that can include re-stringing, rebuilding the internal mechanism, and refinishing the exterior. Whether it's Upright Piano Restoration or full Grand Piano Restoration, we tailor our approach to your piano's needs.

Can restoring a piano increase its value?

Yes. Expert Piano Restoration often increases the value of quality instruments, especially for Antique Pianos or high-end brands like Steinway & Sons, Bechstein, and Blüthner. Restoring your piano can also safeguard its sentimental worth for future generations.

What questions should I ask a piano restorer beforehand?

Ask about their experience, past projects, restoration methods. It is important to build trust with your piano restorer as pianos can be very sentimental, and restoration can be a significant investment. We make sure that our restorations are not “one size fits all”, with work tailored to your expectations. If you're looking for Piano Restoration, Somerset, Devon, or the South West, we’re here to answer your questions and provide examples of our work, including Steinway Piano Restoration and Antique Piano Restoration.

Is it better to restore my current piano or buy a new one?

Restoring a quality older piano, especially an antique or reputable brand, can offer much better value than purchasing a new equivalent. Speak to a Piano Restorer to help determine if restoration or replacement is your best option.

What to do if my piano has a split soundboard?

Don’t panic! One of the biggest myths of old pianos is that when the soundboard is split, then the piano is worthless. This is absolutely NOT the case. The majority of splits in the soundboard are entirely inconsequential, and have minimal effect on the resonance and tone clarity of your piano.

It's true that excessive splits can have a negative effect on the sound of your piano, likewise if the split is causing a buzz when playing the piano. That being said, during the process of restoration, splits can be easily repaired, or the soundboard replaced if necessary.

What to do if my piano doesn’t stay in tune?

If a piano is not holding its tune, it is usually an indication that the tuning plank (that holds the tuning pins in place) has failed. This is a common cause that leads to both upright and grand pianos needing restoration. In the majority of cases, an experienced piano restorer can make and fit a new tuning plank to your piano, allowing it to retain its functionality for generations to come.

Contact Us for Expert Piano Restoration

If you’re searching for a reliable Piano Restorer near me, serving Somerset, Devon, and the South West, we’d love to help. Contact us today for an expert assessment and no-obligation quote for your Grand Piano Restoration, Upright Piano Restoration, or Antique Piano Restoration project.