SEASONAL AND ANNUAL GUITAR REPAIR TIPS

A well-loved guitar deserves the same attention you’d give to a car or bike—regular care keeps it playing smoothly and prevents costly repairs down the road. Whether you’re changing strings, preparing for a new season, or storing your instrument long-term, here’s a complete maintenance checklist every guitarist should follow.

🎸 Every String Change: Quick Maintenance

Changing strings is the perfect time for a quick check-up. Here’s what to look at:

• Neck Relief: Press a string at the 1st and last fret—there should be a small gap at the middle frets. Too much or too little relief may require a truss rod adjustment.

• Intonation: Use a tuner to check fretted notes at the 12th fret. If they’re sharp or flat compared to the harmonic, adjust the saddle.

• Electronics (Electrics Only): Plug in and check for scratchy pots, loose jacks, or noisy switches. A little contact cleaner goes a long way.

• Hardware: Tighten strap buttons, tuner screws, and bridge parts.

Bonus tip: Wipe down the fretboard and body with a clean, dry cloth before stringing back up.

🌦 Seasonal Checks: Protecting Against Weather

Guitars are made of wood, and wood reacts to the environment. Each season brings its own challenges.

• Humidity Levels: Keep guitars between 40–50% relative humidity. Too dry = cracks and fret sprout; too humid = swollen tops and high action.

• Fret Sprout: In dry weather, fret ends may stick out. A luthier can dress them, but keeping humidity stable prevents the issue.

• Neck & Action Changes: Seasonal shifts can alter neck relief—don’t ignore sudden buzzing or unusually high action.

• Cracks & Finish Checks: Inspect the body for small cracks or separating seams, especially on acoustics. Catching them early means easier repairs.

📦 Long-Term Guitar Care: Annual & Beyond

For instruments you gig with or keep as heirlooms, annual care is just as important as seasonal.

• Storage: Keep guitars in cases when not in use. Hard cases provide better protection than gig bags.

• Transport: Never leave your guitar in a hot car or freezing trunk—temperature swings are a guitar’s worst enemy.

• Cleaning: Use guitar-specific polishes and fretboard conditioners (avoid household cleaners).

• Pro Setup: At least once a year, bring your guitar in for a full professional setup. This includes truss rod adjustment, nut inspection, fret leveling, and intonation.

✅ Final Thoughts

Routine guitar maintenance isn’t complicated—it’s just about being consistent. By checking your instrument during every string change, staying mindful of seasonal conditions, and scheduling annual care, you’ll keep your guitar looking, sounding, and feeling its best for years to come.

Remember: a little prevention today saves a lot of repair tomorrow.