Look Who it Was Random video

What's the Difference between Rebuilding and Reconditioning a Piano?

3,665 views · Published 24 September 2012 · 2:44 · Indexed 25 September 2026

Channel: LivingPianosVideos · 2012 · Music

Watch on YouTube

http://livingpianos.com/piano-care/whats-the-difference-between-rebuilding-and-reconditioning-a-piano/
https://www.facebook.com/livingpianos
You might have heard these terms used  in describing used pianos. But exactly what  is the difference between rebuilding a piano and simply reconditioning one? Is there a real distinction between the two? There definitely is.
 
Whether or not you will be looking at a rebuild or a reconditioning really depends upon the condition the piano is in. Generally the distinction of rebuilding is when the cast iron plate of the piano is removed. Removing the plate is a very big deal -- it requires an engine hoist; as the plate weighs more than the rest of the piano combined. When removing the plate, the strings, pins and bolts are removed first. Then the plate is lifted out.
 
Rebuilding is necessary when the soundboard or pinblock are compromised. The reason removing a plate is so important is that it allows the technician to get to the belly of the piano. The soundboard can be refinished; it can be shimmed if necessary, and when the plate is put back in it can be placed precisely for ideal down bearing -- the tension the strings exert on the bridge. You also have the option to reguild the plate to make it look like new. Really, removing the plate allows you to rework the inside of the piano giving new life to a piano with problems. 
 
Another good reason to rebuild a piano is if the pinblock needs to be replaced. If the piano has been restrung a number of times it is important to replace the pinblock because larger pins are used every time you restring a piano and you reach a practical limit in pin size. Also, the pinblock can sometimes develop cracks which effects tuning stability. 
 
If the soundboard and pinblock are in good shape, there is no benefit in rebuilding the piano. In fact, you can restring the piano, rework the bridges, and even rebuild the action, refinish the cabinet and re-bush the pedals all without technically rebuilding the piano. However, such a piano might be just as solid and potentially long lasting as a rebuilt piano. It all depends upon what each instrument needs in order to play on a high level for years to come.

More from this channel