Pianos have a limited lifetime, usually measured in decades. However, different parts have different lifetimes: for example, on a heavily used but well-cared-for instrument (e.g. in a concert hall), the hammers might last less than ten years while the soundboard might last fifty years and more. Regular replacement of worn parts can therefore extend a piano’s lifetime by decades – even indefinitely, provided that the piano’s structural support (i.e. the frame) remains sound (and sometimes the frame can also be repaired).
The restoration process begins with a check of the piano’s condition, when the necessary interventions are identified and the scope of repair is presented to the customer. With the complete piano restoration, the musical instrument is first completely disassembled, the individual pieces are marked, and the damaged parts are rebuilt. First, the resonant bottom and cast iron frame are repaired. The end of the reconstruction of the resonant part of the piano is represented by trimming and tuning.
This is followed by surface treatment of the piano’s exterior, in high gloss or matte finish, and interventions on the mechanics, usually the replacement of vital parts and regulation. Finally, the piano is assembled, followed by playing, fine-tuning mechanics, intonation and tuning.