Understanding Refurbished Pianos: A Guide for Enthusiasts and Professionals

Introduction to Piano Refurbishment

The term 'refurbishment' can vary widely depending on what the technician doing or offering the work deems suitable. In principle, refurbishment involves necessary repairs, cleaning, and service, such as tuning and minor adjustments. However, depending on the extent of the work, it can go far beyond basic maintenance. Here we will explore the differences between restoration, rebuilding, and refurbishment, and what it means to have a piano 'refurbished'.

Restoration vs. Rebuilding vs. Refurbishment

Restoration: This typically involves essential repairs, cleaning, and maintenance, such as tuning and minor adjustments. Rebuilding: This can involve significant intervention, such as replacing old strings, hammers, and a new finish. Rebuilding should encompass replacing all older parts, new finishes on the case and soundboard, and potentially even a new soundboard. Refurbishment: This term is often more flexible and can vary based on the technician's practices. It generally implies that at least an advanced tuner has addressed the hammer and damper felt, and possibly the tuning pegs and re-stringing. While essential, it is not as extensive as rebuilding.

The Importance of Refurbishment

Older pianos, particularly those around 50 to 100 years old, often require more extensive work than the cost of a new piano. This is because these pianos have experienced considerable wear and tear over time. A thorough refurbishment ensures that the piano remains in excellent condition, allowing it to perform optimally.

What is Involved in Refurbishing a Piano?

In a thorough refurbishment, worn or damaged parts are replaced to ensure the piano functions correctly. This includes checking and replacing various components:

Soundboard bridges Frame Keybed Keyboard action components - lever, hammer, damper, Jack flanges Hammer butt and its return loops Hammer felt and its working surface Leathers: Doe skin of the balance hammer, the notch and its felt The state of burnish with lead The state of each tuning pin and its associated string - bright drawn mild steel polished or copper wound, single or double

It's important to note that the casework and pedals should also be maintained to operate with minimal noise.

Why Refurbish a Piano?

Older pianos may lie dormant for extended periods, but this does not mean they cannot be restored. As long as the key actions are true, a restored piano can perform beautifully.

The key actions in pianos are intricate and crucial. There are 88 individual actions, each with its own design, making them particularly challenging to restore if they are damaged.

Refurbishing is essential to ensure that all parts that have even slightly deteriorated are replaced, allowing the piano to function properly for performance.

Conclusion

Understanding the nuances of refurbishing a piano is crucial for both pianists and professionals. Whether you are an enthusiast looking to maintain your cherished instrument or a professional tasked with restoring a rare antique, knowledge of the process can make a significant difference in the outcome.

For more detailed information on piano maintenance and restoration, or if you are considering refurbishing an older piano, reach out to a certified technician who can provide expert advice and perform the necessary work to ensure your piano continues to sound its best.