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How Much Does Refretting a Guitar Cost?

Refretting a guitar is a process done to different types of guitars with buzzes that cannot be adjusted with normal procedures.  There are at least four types of refretting services that include maintenance, corrective, modification and partial refretting; the pricing for each is going to greatly vary.  The cost of refretting a guitar is going to depend on the person/company performing the job, the type of guitar, as well as other factors.

How much is it?

• On average, refretting a guitar can cost from as little as $75 to as much as $500.  The price for refretting a guitar depends on the type of guitar as well as the price the music company performing the service. Music establishments will be the best place to go when searching for people that are able to refret a guitar.
• Some professionals may charge per fret rather than per job.  If the expert charges per fret, it can start at $10.  If the professional charges by the hour, be prepared to pay anywhere from $35 to $90 per hour depending on the reputation.
• Older guitars of notorious brands such as Gibson and Fender can be toward the $500 range.  Keep in mind that some experts may state that the guitar does not need replacement.  Instead, the guitar may be able to be restored.
• According to the site FretworksRepair.com, the cost ranges anywhere from $80 to $100.
• Tdpri.com has discussions provided by individuals that have had their guitars refretted.  The price mentioned on this site ranges from $78 to $278.
• Gearslutz.com quotes the price for the service by the individuals that have their guitars refretted.  The price for refretting a guitar according to this site can range anywhere from $300 to $500 in the area of New Jersey.

What are the extra costs?

• If the guitar has other cracks or breaks, this will cost extra to repair.  The price for repairing this type of fault is charged by the hour and it can cost anywhere from $50 to $80 per hour.
• Vintage or antique guitars can cost more due to the time that will take to restore them.
• If the nuts have to be replaced as well, this can be considered an additional expense.  Older guitars can have nuts that tend to wear out faster.
• Reputable guitar experts in your local hometown can charge more due to the demand.  If having an older guitar done, it may be ideal to pay more to ensure that the job is done properly.
• If extra work has to be done to the guitar outside of the fret, additional fees may apply.

What is going to be included?

• The repair will include the assembly of the guitar after the refretting has been completed.  The service will also include cleaning of the equipment after it has been refretted.

Tips to know:

• If the complete fret has to be replaced and the expert is charging less than $75, you may want to second guess his work.  It is best to get a before and after picture as well as ask for references to ensure that this person does quality work.
• Before hiring a professional, ask them about their experience.  How long have they been doing it?  What makes them good at their job?  If you have a vintage guitar, ask them how they work with antique guitars.

How can I save money?

• Most companies that offer refretting services will provide sound advice; some of them may even have a solution other than having your guitar undergo the service.
• If you purchased the guitar for less than $100 and you do not have any attachment to it, you may want to practice or learn on your own.  While it does take some skill to learn, it can help you save money in the future.

Average Price for Users : $20