Stringed Instrument Repair Services in Washington Metropolitan Area
Restore the health of your stringed instrument with help from Lee Guitars Co. We provide a wide range of stringed instrument repair services in the Washington Metropolitan Area. Whether you need routine maintenance, upgrades, or complex restorations, we are here to ensure your instruments sound and perform at their best.
We operate primarily by appointment, and are a BYOS (Bring Your Own Strings) shop.
Once you have determined, either through the information provided here or after speaking with us, that we can help you, you are welcome to book an appointment. Unless you hear otherwise, we will see you at that time. Please be mindful of our time and only book a time that you know you can make.
Repair Policy
Pricing and Estimates
Given the occasionally unpredictable nature of repair work, charges may vary based on the complexity and time required for each job. Rest assured, you will be informed of any additional work needed and its costs before proceeding. The prices listed cover labor only unless otherwise specified. Generally, raw materials such as wood and bone are included in our pricing, whereas manufactured parts like strings, tuners, pegs, and buttons are not.
Order Processing
Repairs are generally completed in the order they are received in our shop. If you have specific time constraints or need to discuss rush orders, please contact us directly to make the necessary arrangements.
Note to Customers
Most instruments that have setup-related issues, such as buzzing, uncomfortable action, intonation problems, restringing (as part of other adjustments), or needing adjustments to nut, saddle, bridge, banjo head, etc., usually require a “full set up” (see below for more description of what this covers).
To maximize efficiency and turnaround time, we ask that you preapprove a setup cost of $125 when you drop off your instrument. Some setup work will cost less, but this amount usually covers any small additional adjustments or materials that may be needed to complete the job without waiting for customer approval for small dollar amounts.
Given the occasionally unpredictable nature of repair work, charges may vary based on the complexity and time required for each job. Rest assured, you will be informed of any additional work needed and its costs before proceeding. The prices listed cover labor only unless otherwise specified. Generally, raw materials such as wood and bone are included in our pricing, whereas manufactured parts like strings, tuners, pegs, and buttons are not.
Repairs are generally completed in the order they are received in our shop. If you have specific time constraints or need to discuss rush orders, please contact us directly to make the necessary arrangements.
Most instruments that have setup-related issues, such as buzzing, uncomfortable action, intonation problems, restringing (as part of other adjustments), or needing adjustments to nut, saddle, bridge, banjo head, etc., usually require a “full set up” (see below for more description of what this covers).
To maximize efficiency and turnaround time, we ask that you preapprove a setup cost of $125 when you drop off your instrument. Some setup work will cost less, but this amount usually covers any small additional adjustments or materials that may be needed to complete the job without waiting for customer approval for small dollar amounts.
Basic Rates:
- Hourly Labor Rate: $90
- Minimum Labor Charge (1/2 Hour): $45
There is no charge for repair estimates, except where disassembly or diagnostic work is required or work is not chosen to be done after a lengthy evaluation.
Written Appraisal of Value:
- Up to $1000 Value: $50
- Over $1000 Value: $60 and Up
- Over $5,000 Value: $80
Our Services
Set Up
- Full Diagnostics and Inspection: Thorough evaluation of the entire instrument, including all electronics.
- Personalized Recommendations: Suggestions for potential upgrades and improvements.
- Frets and Fretboard: Complete polish of frets, cleaning, and oiling of the fretboard.
- Hardware: Tightening all hardware components.
- Restringing: Installation of new strings (please specify your preferred gauge and brand).
- Nut Slots: Adjusting and polishing.
- Truss Rod: Lubrication (if needed) and full adjustment.
- Tremolo/Tailpiece: Balancing the tremolo or setting the tailpiece.
- Saddle Height: Adjustments for optimal playability.
- Intonation: Setting using even temperament methods.
- Electronics: Checking and adjusting pickups.
- Detail Polish and Cleaning: Comprehensive final polish and cleaning for a pristine finish.
Additional Notes:
- For electric and acoustic guitars, we balance the output for consistent performance.
- Archtops and mandolins will have bridges fitted to the top for optimal sound quality.
- When applicable, please specify your desired tremolo setup for electric instruments.
Set Up Services and Rates:
- String Change: $20 (+String Price for Most Instruments; Instruments with Octave Strings Costs Additional $15 – Charge Applies to Customers Not Wanting or Needing to Spend for a Full Set Up When Doing Other Instrument-Related Jobs)
- Electric Guitar/Bass Set Up: $110 (Floating Tremolo Strat: $135; Floyd: $160; with Fret Spot Leveling: $160-$210)
- Standard Acoustic 6-String Classical/Dulcimer Set Up: $120 ($140 for Nontraditional or Difficult Systems to Dial-In, Such as Those Found on Epiphone FT-130s, etc.; with Fret Spot Leveling: $160-$200)
- Banjo/Mandolin/12-String Guitar/Archtop Set Up: $120-$150 (with Fret Spot Leveling: $180-$220)
- Ukulele Set Up: $70-$90
- Shim Neck (Bolt-On Guitar): $30-$60 (Generally Requires Set Up as Well as Adjustment of Individual Parts, e.g., Nut Slots, Truss Rod, Saddle, Etc.; $30-$40 Can Apply to Some Instruments Needing Beyond Normal Adjustments During Set Up; See “Nut and Saddle” Below)
- Fit Bridge on Mandolin or Archtop Guitar: $60-$70 (+Parts: $25-$80)
- Thoroughly Clean/Polish Instruments in Poor Shape: $60-$150 (We Consider This a Small Restoration; Minor Retouching/Sealing; Methods Vary)
- Replacing/Swapping/Installation of Various Parts on Electrics (Such as Saddles, Tuners, Pickguards, Knobs, Etc.): Starts at $40 Min. Bench Fee (Pricing Varies Depending on Time Taken; Set Up Is Required Afterward in Some Cases)
- Structural Modifications (Enlarging/Adding Holes, Tapping Stripped Holes/Removing Broken Screws, Etc.): Pricing Varies Depending on Severity and Set Up Required
Some pesky issues can arise in older instruments, such as stuck screws, stripped holes, etc. We are happy to help with these issues, though we cannot guarantee any resolution. Pricing will vary based on time and difficulty, with a $40 minimum bench fee for attempting to resolve such issues.
Fret Dressing
- Leveling Frets: Filing the frets to ensure they are level.
- Re-crowning: Reshaping the frets for optimal performance.
- Polishing: Ensuring a smooth, clean finish on all frets.
Additional Recommendations:
- Complete Set Up: Fret dressing must be performed in conjunction with a full instrument set up to ensure the best results.
- Frets Replacement: For heavily worn frets, replacement may be recommended at an additional cost.
- Nut/Saddle Replacement: Some jobs may require the installation of a new nut or saddle.
Please provide or specify your preferred gauge and brand of strings for the setup.
Fret Dressing Services and Rates:
- Full Fret Level and Re-Crown (Basic 6-String and Similar): $80-$130 (Varies on How Severely Worn/Devoted or Low Certain Frets Are, Twists, Humps/Ramps, Etc.; These Jobs Require More Time and Detail Orientation; Additional Setup Work Will Usually Be Required; Advisable to Approve Cost for Set Up If Addressing Fret Issues)
- File Fret Ends Only: $60
- Re-Seat Loose Frets: $15 for First (+$10 Each Additional)
- Heat Straightening or Bending the Neck: $160+ (For Instruments with a Multitude of Issues; Some Instruments Require More Work Than Others, and Charges Will Be Based on Time Required in Those Instances, as Not All Issues Can Be Resolved with a Fret Level Alone; See the Section Titled “Neck” For More Info)
Partial Refret
Requires fret level, re-crown, polish of entire board, and set up on most instruments. A new nut may be required.
Rates:
- 1 Fret: $120
- 2 Frets: $140
- 3 Frets: $160
- 4 Frets: $180
- 5 Frets: $200
- 6 Frets: $220
- 7 Frets: $240
- 8 Frets: $250
- 9 Frets: $260
- 10 Frets: $270
- 11 Frets: $280
- 12 Frets: $290
(Bound Fretboard: Additional $20-$60)
Full Refret
- Includes fingerboard plane/radius and condition, fretting, level and crown, and complete setup required.
- Additional material cost $25 for stainless steel or “EVO gold” fret wire.
- New nut is often required (additional charges applies).
Rates:
- Unbound Rosewood or Ebony: $340
- Bound Rosewood or Ebony: $440
- Unbound Maple: $390
- Bound Maple: $450
- Stainless Steel Fret: $40 Labor Only (+Materials: $20-$25)
- New Nut with Refret, 6 Strings: $70 (Separate, $80-$100)
- New Nut with Refret, 12 Strings: $100 (Separate, $120)
Please supply or specify preferred gauge and brand of strings and communicate preferred fret size, if you have a preference. Otherwise, we will choose a generic size or match size of original frets when possible.
Fingerboard
- Fabricate and Install Unbound Rosewood or Ebony Fingerboard: $750+ (Includes Fretting, Nut, Set Up Dot Inlays; Additional Inlay Extra)
- Fabricate and Install Bound Rosewood or Ebony Fingerboard: $850+ (Includes Fretting, Nut, Set Up Dot Inlays; Additional Inlay Extra)
- Refret and Rebind Fretboard and Touch Up: $600+
Nut and Saddle
Includes fabricating new string nut or saddle from raw material (usually bone, or ebony) and precise fitting to instrument. Pre-slotted nuts will rarely fit and will only be offered on the most inexpensive student instruments if one does fit. Additional setup required. Lubrication of slots also included.
Nut Services and Rates:
- 4-String Ukulele, Etc.: $60
- Guitars, Bass, Banjo, Etc.: $80-$100
- 8-String Mandolin, Etc.: $100
- 12-String Guitar, Etc.: $130
- Install Plastic Nut: $35
- Shim Nut, Fill, and Adjust Slots (Offered as a More Affordable Option When Possible and Practical): $40-$60
- Raise Single Slot: $15
- Banjo 5th-String Nut: $30-$60
Difficult nut removal may add $20-$30 (utmost care must be used when removing nuts, and some are glued in).
Saddle Services and Rates
- Fit New Bone Saddle, Straight: $70 (Material Included)
- 12-String, Straight: $80
- Compensated 6-String, Custom: $80
- Ukulele: $50
- Compensated 6-String, Stock: $40
- Re-Cut Saddle Slot: $80
- Martin Through-Cut Saddle: $100
- Remove Glued-In Through-Cut Saddle: $60
Bridge
When possible for the customer, we prefer to keep the guitar for a few extra days or so to make sure everything is as it should be. Add $20-$40 for 12-strings. Set up is required additionally.
Bridge Services and Rates:
- Bridge Remove and Re-Glue, Typical 6-String: $120-$160
- Re-Glue Bridge, Classical Guitar: $100-$140
- Re-Glue Bridge, Ukulele: $80-$100
- Re-Glue Bridge, Laminate-Top or Badly Damaged Top, 6-String: $140-$180 (Often Requires Additional Work, Finish Touch-Up)
- Plane Bridge and/or Re-Cut Saddle Slot, Acoustic Guitar: $80-$160 (May Require a New Saddle, Thicker/Compensated, Additional)
- Install New Stock Manufactured Bridge as Above +Parts: $30-$60 (If Proper Fit Available Only)
- Fabricate and Install a New Handmade Bridge, Rosewood/Ebony: $380+ (Includes Bone Saddle and Set Up; Pyramid or Unusual Bridge, Higher Price)
- Glue Loosened Bridge Plate: $80-$120
- Cap Bridge Plate: $160-$200
- Glue Cracked Bridge, If Practical: $40-$100
Neck
- Replace or Fix Truss Rod (R/R Fretboard): $450 (Labor and Set Up; +Parts/Materials, Approximate: $40-$50)
- Replace Removable Truss Rod: $120+ (Labor and Set Up; +Parts/Materials, Approximate: $40-$50)
- Heat-Bend/Straighten Neck, Includes Dress Frets and Complete Set Up: $200-$260 (May Require Refret, R/R Fretboard, New Nut, and/or Saddle
- Rosewood/Ebony Only—No Maple; Not Fully Guaranteed)
- Re-Glue Loose Neck without Removal, Where Practical: $80-$150 (+Set Up Is Usually Required; Not a Guaranteed Repair but Is Necessary)
- Re-Carve and Refinish Neck: $400 and Up
Neck Reset
Proper playability is not guaranteed without a full refret.
Services and Rates:
- Traditional Dovetail, No Binding: $400-$450 (with Refret: $700-$800)
- Some Guild, Gibson Acoustics, or Substantial Touch-Up Required: $500-$600 (with Refret: $800-$850)
- Taylor (Pre-NT) or Other Bolt-On: $225-$250 (with Refret: $470-$500)
- Les Paul, Includes Touch Up and Set Up: $550 (with Refret: $850)
- SG Guitars (No Binding), Includes Touch Up: $500 (with Refret: $800)
- Hollow-Bodies (Gibson ES Style) or Archtops: $600-650 (with Refret: $900-$950; Includes Set Up and Touch Up)
Tuning Machines and Strap Buttons
- Install Tuning Machines, No Modification, Individual or In-Line, 6-String: $40 (Restring Additional)
- Install Individual Tuning Machines, with Fill Screw-Holes and Minor Retouch: $15 Min. Each
- Install Tuning Machines, Individual or In-Line, with Bushing or Modification of Holes: $60-$180
- Install Tuner or Strap Button (Cost of Parts Varies): $20-$40 (Depending on Location, Finish, and Desired Parts – Please Provide or Specify Desired Button. Otherwise, We Will Choose from Our Stocked Buttons, Which Are Typically High-End, + Cost of Shipping ($20). We Will Choose the One We Find to Have the Best Aesthetic or Match the Other Button)
- Replace All Tuner Buttons: $75-$100 (Additional Charges for Anything with More Than 6 Pegs)
Crack and Structural Repair
Prices are estimates and may vary depending on severity. Often, we will group the entire instrument as one price when many cracks or separations are present. We ask you not to touch areas with your fingers if possible after the repair is done, as some finish repairs and glues can still be curing. When possible, we like to keep instruments in a properly humidified environment for a few days afterward to watch for new cracks and ensure finishes are curing when applicable.
Services and Rates:
- Some instruments may require a few days in our “Humidification Station”: No Charge
- Cracks, Separations—By Estimate Only: Approx. $25/Inch, Incl. Finish Retouch Min. $60 (Includes Cross-Grain Cleat Reinforcements as Needed)
- Cracks, Separations with Spline—By Estimate Only: Approx. $40/Inch, Incl. Retouch Min. $100
- Repairs Requiring Removal of Top or Back Plate: Min. $300
- Retouch Varnish or Lacquer—By Estimate Only: Min. $60
- Seal Cracked Bridge (When Practical): $50-$60
- Re-glue Headstock, No Reinforcements Added, Exclusive of Touch Up: $140-$200 (with Reinforcement, Splining, Etc. and Touch Up: $500 and Up, By Quote;
- Plus Set Up Additional)
- Graft New Headstock: $750 and Up, By Quote
- Replace Faceplate Veneer, Including Finishing: $200-$300
- Re-glue Loose Brace, Each Location/End: $40-$50
- Re-glue Detached Brace: $60 and Up
- Fabricate and Install New Brace: $120-$200 (Plate Removal Not Included)
- Remove Top or Back for Repair: $250 Minimum
Pickguards and Inlay
- Mount Precut Adhesive Plastic Pickguard, Acoustic Guitar: $50-$60 (Price Can Vary Depending on Time Needed and Difficulty Removing Old Pickguard/Clean Up Before New Mount; Generally Older or More Valuable Instruments Require More Detail and Time Given)
- Custom or Reproduction Hand-Cut Plastic Acoustic Pickguard: $100-$140
- New Pickguard, Custom Wood: $160 And Up +Cost of Lumber (Varies on Grade Available)
- Install Vintage Gibson Mandolin Pickguard and Similar:
- Reproduction: $180 Part + $120-$140 Labor
- Authentic/Original: $200-$350 Part + $120-$160 Labor
- Inlay Dot Position Markers, Full Fingerboard (10 Dots):
- Rosewood/Ebony: $180
- Maple (Includes Lacquer Touch Up): $270
- Inlay Single Dot, First: $45 (Each Additional: $30)
- Inlay Side Dots, Full Board, Minimal Touch Up: $100
- Inlay New or Restore Block, Custom or Fancy Inlays, By Estimate: $40 and Up Each
Binding
- Re-Glue Loose Binding on Top or Back with Touch Up:
- One Plate: $200
- 2nd Plate: $180
- Neck, One Side, No Dots: $120
- Neck Bass Side, With Position Marker Dots, Black/White Plastic: $140 (With Position Marker Dots, Pearl, Tortoise, Etc.: $160)
- Replace/Restore Missing, Cracked, or Disintegrating Binding: By Estimate
All above may require extensive touch-up for proper appearance.
Touch-Up, Finishing, and Refinishing: By Estimate Only
Banjo
- Replace Plastic Banjo Head (Set Up Additional): $80 + Parts $24-$30 + Set Up Charge (with Complete Disassemble, Clean/Polish All Parts: $140-$180 + Part + Set Up Charge)
- Convert Skin to Plastic Head, First Time, Old Instrument: $100 + Part $24-$30 (with Complete Disassemble, Clean/Polish All Parts: $180-$200 + Part
- Set Up Additional)
- Replace Skin Banjo Head, Calfskin or Goatskin: $120 + Material $15-$60 + Set Up Charge (with Disassemble, Clean/Polish All Parts/Hardware (Preferred): $200-$220 + Material; Set Up Additional
- Disassemble, Complete Clean/Polish All Parts, No Head Replacement: $120 $160+ Set Up Additional
- Install Capo Spikes, Banjo:
- 1: $40
- 2: $60
- 3: $75
- Install “Pegheads” Geared Pegs (5): $100 Labor + $149 Parts
- Install Planetary Pegs, Enlarge Holes: $80/4 + Parts $60-$100 and Up
- Install 5th Peg, Friction or Geared: $35 + Part $10-$15 (If Bushing Required: $60-$80 + Part)
- Fit Violin-Type Pegs (Hole Tapers Intact): $100/4, Basic Pegs Included. Fancy Pegs Additional; If Bushing and Touch Up Required: +$120/4; 5th Peg: $36
- 5th-String Nut, Bone or Ebony, Plain: $30 (Fancy, Carved: $60)
- Re-glue Wood Dowel Stick (Strut), Easy Removal, Minimal Refitting: $60 + Complete Set Up
- Remove/Re-glue/Refit Dowel Stick (Strut): $120-$160 + Complete Set Up
- Fabricate New or Graft Dowel Stick (Strut): $180-$200 + Complete Set Up
- Fabricate Ebony Wedges for U-Type Neck Brace: $60
- Refit or Install Metal Neck Brace: $50+ Part $25 (Kay Type); $50 (Vega Repro)
- Bush and Refit Neck Lag Bolt: $80
Please note we do not install sliding 5th-string capos.
Electronics
- All Prices Are Labor Only; Additional Fee for Parts
- Many Types of Jobs Are Not Listed
- Any Estimate Will Be Given Upon Further Inspection
Services and Rates:
- Minimum Bench Fee or Diagnosis: $40
- Custom Circuits on Electric Instruments: Available Upon Request (Pricing Will Be Adjusted Based on What Customer Is Desiring)
- Amp and Pedal Repairs or Biasing/Modding: Available Only After Thorough Inspection and Diagnostics (Bench Fee Applies)
- Electric Instrument Pickup Replacement/Installation: $50-$120 (Varies Based on Number of Pickups, Etc.; +$70 for Semi and Fully Hollow Electrics)
- Routing New Cavities: $125
- Copper Foil Tape Shielding (Cavity and Pickguard): $55 (Helps Remove Unwanted Interference and Noise Issues; Results May Vary)
- Fully Rewire Electric Guitar: $100 (+$70 for Semi and Fully Hollow Electrics)
- Pickup Rewinds: $60-$120 (Depending on Various Factors; Additional Charges for Period Correct Wire)
- Acoustic Pickup Installs (Under-Saddle and Endpin Jack): $100-$150
- Install Acoustic Contact Transducer Pickup and Endpin Jack: $140 (We Use Glue Methods for K&K and Similar, Which Increases Output and Clarity by Around 30% VS Double-Sided Tapes)
- Install Acoustic Pickup and Endpin Jack (K&K Trinity): $160
- Banjo or Mandolin Transducer Pickup Installation: $120+
- Output Jack Replacement: $70 (+Parts)
- Jack Re-Soldering: $60
- Pot Replacement: $75 (+$40 Each Additional)
Major restorations are welcome after a free thorough inspection (please allow ample timeframe to do work properly).
Anything not listed can still be inquired about, as we are able to accommodate many other issues or ideas you may have! Contact us today to learn more about our stringed instrument repair services.
Our Services
Set Up
It all starts here! a good setup is the lifeline of your instrument. We have spent years investing in making sure we have all the best tools on the market to ensure the best setup your instrument can ever attain. We can reliably and consistently achieve repeatable results with modifications needed based on whatever state your instrument may be in.
Our setups include (but are not limited to)
- Full Diagnostics and Inspection: Thorough evaluation of the entire instrument, including all electronics.
- Personalized Recommendations: Suggestions for potential upgrades and improvements.
- Frets and Fretboard: Complete polish of frets, cleaning, and oiling of the fretboard.
- Hardware: Tightening all hardware components.
- Restringing: Installation of new strings (please specify your preferred gauge and brand).
- Nut Slots: Adjusting and polishing.
- Truss Rod: Lubrication (if needed) and full adjustment.
- Tremolo/Tailpiece: Balancing the tremolo or setting the tailpiece.
- Saddle Height: Adjustments for optimal playability.
- Intonation: Setting using even temperament methods.
- Electronics: Checking and adjusting pickups.
- Detail Polish and Cleaning: Comprehensive final polish and cleaning for a pristine finish.
Additional Notes:
- For electric and acoustic guitars, we balance the output for consistent performance.
- Archtops and mandolins will have bridges fitted to the top for optimal sound quality.
- When applicable, please specify your desired tremolo setup for electric instruments.
Set Up Services and Rates:
- String Change: $20 (+String Price for Most Instruments; Instruments with Octave Strings Costs Additional $15 – Charge Applies to Customers Not Wanting or Needing to Spend for a Full Set Up When Doing Other Instrument-Related Jobs)
- Electric Guitar/Bass Set Up: $120 (Floating Tremolo Strat: $135; Floyd: $160; with Fret Spot Leveling: $160-$210)
- Standard Acoustic 6-String Classical/Dulcimer Set Up: $120 ($140 for Nontraditional or Difficult Systems to Dial-In, Such as Those Found on Epiphone FT-130s, etc.; with Fret Spot Leveling: $160-$200)
- Banjo/Mandolin/12-String Guitar/Archtop Set Up: $120-$150 (with Fret Spot Leveling: $180-$220)
- Ukulele Set Up: $70-$90
- Shim Neck (Bolt-On Guitar): $30-$60 (Generally Requires Set Up as Well as Adjustment of Individual Parts, e.g., Nut Slots, Truss Rod, Saddle, Etc.; $30-$40 Can Apply to Some Instruments Needing Beyond Normal Adjustments During Set Up; See “Nut and Saddle” Below)
- Fit Bridge on Mandolin or Archtop Guitar: $60-$70 (+Parts: $25-$80)
- Thoroughly Clean/Polish Instruments in Poor Shape: $60-$150 (We Consider This a Small Restoration; Minor Retouching/Sealing; Methods Vary)
- Replacing/Swapping/Installation of Various Parts on Electrics (Such as Saddles, Tuners, Pickguards, Knobs, Etc.): Starts at $40 Min. Bench Fee (Pricing Varies Depending on Time Taken; Set Up Is Required Afterward in Some Cases)
- Structural Modifications (Enlarging/Adding Holes, Tapping Stripped Holes/Removing Broken Screws, Etc.): Pricing Varies Depending on Severity and Set Up Required
Some pesky issues can arise in older instruments, such as stuck screws, stripped holes, etc. We are happy to help with these issues, though we cannot guarantee any resolution. Pricing will vary based on time and difficulty, with a $40 minimum bench fee for attempting to resolve such issues.
Fret Dressing
In a perfect world you start every setup with perfectly leveled frets, every time for the lowest action. There are many reasons your frets may need to leveled, such as twists in the neck ,imperfections in the fretboard, high or low frets, general buzziness, or just plain wear and tear
- Leveling Frets: Filing the frets to ensure they are level.
- Re-crowning: Reshaping the frets for optimal performance.
- Polishing: Ensuring a smooth, clean finish on all frets.
Additional Recommendations:
- Complete Set Up: Fret dressing must be performed in conjunction with a full instrument set up to ensure the best results.
- Frets Replacement: For heavily worn frets, replacement may be recommended at an additional cost.
- Nut/Saddle Replacement: Some jobs may require the installation of a new nut or saddle.
Please provide or specify your preferred gauge and brand of strings for the setup.
Fret Dressing Services and Rates:
- Full Fret Level and Re-Crown (Basic 6-String and Similar): $199+ (Varies on How Severely Worn/Divoted or Low Certain Frets Are, Twists, Humps/Ramps, Etc.; These Jobs Require More Time and Detail Orientation; Additional Setup Work Will Usually Be Required; Advisable to Approve Cost for Set Up If Addressing Fret Issues)
- Fret dressing/ Sharp ends: $75
- Re-Seat Loose Frets: $15 for First (+$10 Each Additional)
- Heat Straightening or Bending the Neck: $160+ (For Instruments with a Multitude of Issues; Some Instruments Require More Work Than Others, and Charges Will Be Based on Time Required in Those Instances, as Not All Issues Can Be Resolved with a Fret Level Alone; See the Section Titled “Neck” For More Info)
Partial Refret
Requires fret level, re-crown, polish of entire board, and set up on most instruments. A new nut may be required.
Rates:
- 1 Fret: $120
- 2 Frets: $150
- 3 Frets: $180
- Each Add’l for $20 each
(Bound Fretboard: Additional $20-$60)
Full Refret
- Includes fingerboard plane/radius and condition, fretting, level and crown, and complete setup required.
- Additional material cost $25 for stainless steel or “EVO gold” fret wire.
- New nut is sometimes required (additional charges applies).
Rates:
- Unbound Rosewood or Ebony: $579+
- Bound Rosewood or Ebony: add 20% (Yes, it takes 20% longer)
- Unbound Maple: $635+
- Bound Maple: add 20% (Yes, it takes 20% longer)
- Stainless Steel ReFret: add $180 on regular prices. Stainless Steel is a hard material.
- New Nut with Refret, 6 Strings: $70 (Separate, $80-$100)
- New Nut with Refret, 12 Strings: $100 (Separate, $120)
Please supply or specify preferred gauge and brand of strings and communicate preferred fret size, if you have a preference. Otherwise, we will choose a generic size or match size of original frets when possible.
Fingerboard
- Fabricate and Install Unbound Rosewood or Ebony Fingerboard: $750+ (Includes Fretting, Nut, Set Up Dot Inlays; Additional Inlay Extra)
- Fabricate and Install Bound Rosewood or Ebony Fingerboard: $850+ (Includes Fretting, Nut, Set Up Dot Inlays; Additional Inlay Extra)
- Refret and Rebind Fretboard and Touch Up: $600+
Nut and Saddle
Includes fabricating new string nut or saddle from raw material (usually bone, or ebony) and precise fitting to instrument. Pre-slotted nuts will rarely fit and will only be offered on the most inexpensive student instruments if one does fit. Additional setup required. Lubrication of slots also included.
Nut Services and Rates:
- 4-String Ukulele, Etc.: $60
- Guitars, Bass, Banjo, Etc.: $80-$120
- 8-String Mandolin, Etc.: $130
- 12-String Guitar, Etc.: $180
- Install Plastic Nut: (when available) $40
- Shim Nut, Fill, and Adjust Slots (Offered as a More Affordable Option When Possible and Practical): $40-$60
- Raise Single Slot: $15
- Banjo 5th-String Nut: $30-$60
Difficult nut removal may add $20-$30 (utmost care must be used when removing nuts, and some are glued in).
Saddle Services and Rates
- Fit New Bone Saddle, Straight: $115 (Material Included)
- 12-String, Straight: $120
- Compensated 6-String, Custom: $130
- Ukulele: $70
- Re-Cut Saddle Slot: varies
- Martin Through-Cut Saddle: $140+
- Remove Glued-In Through-Cut Saddle: varies
Bridge
When possible for the customer, we prefer to keep the guitar for a few extra days or so to make sure everything is as it should be. Add $20-$40 for 12-strings. Set up is required additionally.
Bridge Services and Rates:
- Bridge Remove and Re-Glue, Typical 6-String: $240+
- Re-Glue Bridge, Ukulele: $150+
- Re-Glue Bridge, Laminate-Top or Badly Damaged Top, 6-String: $299+(Often Requires Additional Work, Finish Touch-Up)
- Plane Bridge and/or Re-Cut Saddle Slot, Acoustic Guitar: $80-$160+ (May Require a New Saddle, Thicker/Compensated, Additional)
- Install New Stock Manufactured Bridge as Above +Parts: $30-$60+ (If Proper Fit Available Only)
- Fabricate and Install a New Handmade Bridge, Rosewood/Ebony: $440+ (Includes Bone Saddle and Set Up; Pyramid or Unusual Bridge, Higher Price)
- Glue Loosened Bridge Plate: $80-$120+
- Cap Bridge Plate: $160-$200
- Glue Cracked Bridge, If Practical: $40-$100
Neck
- Replace or Fix Truss Rod (R/R Fretboard): $450 (Labor and Set Up; +Parts/Materials, Approximate: $40-$50)
- Replace Removable Truss Rod: $120+ (Labor and Set Up; +Parts/Materials, Approximate: $40-$50)
- Heat-Bend/Straighten Neck, Includes Dress Frets and Complete Set Up: $200-$260 (May Require Refret, R/R Fretboard, New Nut, and/or Saddle
- Rosewood/Ebony Only—No Maple; Not Fully Guaranteed)
- Re-Glue Loose Neck without Removal, Where Practical: $80-$150 (+Set Up Is Usually Required; Not a Guaranteed Repair but Is Necessary)
- Re-Carve and Refinish Neck: $400 and Up
Neck Reset
Proper playability is not guaranteed without a full refret.
Services and Rates:
- Traditional Dovetail, No Binding: $600+ (with Refret: $700-$900)
- Some Guild, Gibson Acoustics, or Substantial Touch-Up Required: $500-$600+ (with Refret: $800-$850)
- Taylor (Pre-NT) or Other Bolt-On: $225-$250 (with Refret: $470-$500)
- Les Paul, Includes Touch Up and Set Up: $550 (with Refret: $850)
- SG Guitars (No Binding), Includes Touch Up: $500 (with Refret: $800)
- Hollow-Bodies (Gibson ES Style) or Archtops: $600-650 (with Refret: $900-$950; Includes Set Up and Touch Up)
Tuning Machines and Strap Buttons
- Install Tuning Machines, No Modification, Individual or In-Line, 6-String: $40 (Restring Additional)
- Install Individual Tuning Machines, with Fill Screw-Holes and Minor Retouch: $15 Min. Each
- Install Tuning Machines, Individual or In-Line, with Bushing or Modification of Holes: $60-$180
- Install Tuner or Strap Button (Cost of Parts Varies): $20-$40 (Depending on Location, Finish, and Desired Parts – Please Provide or Specify Desired Button. Otherwise, We Will Choose from Our Stocked Buttons, Which Are Typically High-End, + Cost of Shipping ($20). We Will Choose the One We Find to Have the Best Aesthetic or Match the Other Button)
- Replace All Tuner Buttons: $75-$100 (Additional Charges for Anything with More Than 6 Pegs)
Crack and Structural Repair
Prices are estimates and may vary depending on severity. Often, we will group the entire instrument as one price when many cracks or separations are present. We ask you not to touch areas with your fingers if possible after the repair is done, as some finish repairs and glues can still be curing. When possible, we like to keep instruments in a properly humidified environment for a few days afterward to watch for new cracks and ensure finishes are curing when applicable.
Services and Rates:
- Some instruments may require a few days in our “Humidification Station”: No Charge
- Cracks, Separations—By Estimate Only: Approx. $30/Inch, Incl. Finish Retouch Min. $60 (Includes Cross-Grain Cleat Reinforcements as Needed)
- Cracks, Separations with Spline—By Estimate Only: Approx. $45/Inch, Incl. Retouch Min. $100
- Repairs Requiring Removal of Top or Back Plate: Min. $300
- Retouch Varnish or Lacquer—By Estimate Only: Min. $60
- Seal Cracked Bridge (When Practical): $50-$60
- Re-glue Headstock, No Reinforcements Added, Exclusive of Touch Up: $350+ (with Reinforcement, Splining, Etc. and Touch Up: $500 and Up, By Quote;
- Plus Set Up Additional)
- Graft New Headstock: $750 and Up, By Quote
- Replace Faceplate Veneer, Including Finishing: $200-$300
- Re-glue Loose Brace, Each Location/End: $40-$50
- Re-glue Detached Brace: $60 and Up
- Fabricate and Install New Brace: $120-$200 (Plate Removal Not Included)
- Remove Top or Back for Repair: $250 Minimum
Pickguards and Inlay
- Mount Precut Adhesive Plastic Pickguard, Acoustic Guitar: $50-$60 (Price Can Vary Depending on Time Needed and Difficulty Removing Old Pickguard/Clean Up Before New Mount; Generally Older or More Valuable Instruments Require More Detail and Time Given)
- Custom or Reproduction Hand-Cut Plastic Acoustic Pickguard: $100-$140
- New Pickguard, Custom Wood: $160 And Up +Cost of Lumber (Varies on Grade Available)
- Install Vintage Gibson Mandolin Pickguard and Similar:
- Reproduction: $180 Part + $120-$140 Labor
- Authentic/Original: $200-$350 Part + $120-$160 Labor
- Inlay Dot Position Markers, Full Fingerboard (10 Dots):
- Rosewood/Ebony: $180
- Maple (Includes Lacquer Touch Up): $270
- Inlay Single Dot, First: $45 (Each Additional: $30)
- Inlay Side Dots, Full Board, Minimal Touch Up: $100
- Inlay New or Restore Block, Custom or Fancy Inlays, By Estimate: $40 and Up Each
Binding
- Re-Glue Loose Binding on Top or Back with Touch Up:
- One Plate: $200
- 2nd Plate: $180
- Neck, One Side, No Dots: $120
- Neck Bass Side, With Position Marker Dots, Black/White Plastic: $140 (With Position Marker Dots, Pearl, Tortoise, Etc.: $160)
- Replace/Restore Missing, Cracked, or Disintegrating Binding: By Estimate
All above may require extensive touch-up for proper appearance.
Touch-Up, Finishing, and Refinishing: By Estimate Only
Banjo
- Replace Plastic Banjo Head (Set Up Additional): $80 + Parts $24-$30 + Set Up Charge (with Complete Disassemble, Clean/Polish All Parts: $140-$180 + Part + Set Up Charge)
- Convert Skin to Plastic Head, First Time, Old Instrument: $100 + Part $24-$30 (with Complete Disassemble, Clean/Polish All Parts: $180-$200 + Part
- Set Up Additional)
- Replace Skin Banjo Head, Calfskin or Goatskin: $120 + Material $15-$60 + Set Up Charge (with Disassemble, Clean/Polish All Parts/Hardware (Preferred): $200-$220 + Material; Set Up Additional
- Disassemble, Complete Clean/Polish All Parts, No Head Replacement: $120 $160+ Set Up Additional
- Install Capo Spikes, Banjo:
- 1: $40
- 2: $60
- 3: $75
- Install “Pegheads” Geared Pegs (5): $100 Labor + $149 Parts
- Install Planetary Pegs, Enlarge Holes: $80/4 + Parts $60-$100 and Up
- Install 5th Peg, Friction or Geared: $35 + Part $10-$15 (If Bushing Required: $60-$80 + Part)
- Fit Violin-Type Pegs (Hole Tapers Intact): $100/4, Basic Pegs Included. Fancy Pegs Additional; If Bushing and Touch Up Required: +$120/4; 5th Peg: $36
- 5th-String Nut, Bone or Ebony, Plain: $30 (Fancy, Carved: $60)
- Re-glue Wood Dowel Stick (Strut), Easy Removal, Minimal Refitting: $60 + Complete Set Up
- Remove/Re-glue/Refit Dowel Stick (Strut): $120-$160 + Complete Set Up
- Fabricate New or Graft Dowel Stick (Strut): $180-$200 + Complete Set Up
- Fabricate Ebony Wedges for U-Type Neck Brace: $60
- Refit or Install Metal Neck Brace: $50+ Part $25 (Kay Type); $50 (Vega Repro)
- Bush and Refit Neck Lag Bolt: $80
Please note we do not install sliding 5th-string capos.
Electronics
- All Prices Are Labor Only; Additional Fee for Parts
- Many Types of Jobs Are Not Listed
- Any Estimate Will Be Given Upon Further Inspection
Services and Rates:
- Minimum Bench Fee or Diagnosis: $40
- Custom Circuits on Electric Instruments: Available Upon Request (Pricing Will Be Adjusted Based on What Customer Is Desiring)
- Amp and Pedal Repairs or Biasing/Modding: Available Only After Thorough Inspection and Diagnostics (Bench Fee Applies)
- Electric Instrument Pickup Replacement/Installation: $50-$125 (Varies Based on Number of Pickups, Etc.; +$70 for Semi and Fully Hollow Electrics)
- Routing New Cavities: $125
- Copper Foil Tape Shielding (Cavity and Pickguard): $55 (Helps Remove Unwanted Interference and Noise Issues; Results May Vary)
- Fully Rewire Electric Guitar: $100 (+$70 for Semi and Fully Hollow Electrics)
- Pickup Rewinds: $60-$120 (Depending on Various Factors; Additional Charges for Period Correct Wire)
- Acoustic Pickup Installs (Under-Saddle and Endpin Jack): $100-$150
- Install Acoustic Contact Transducer Pickup and Endpin Jack: $140 (We Use Glue Methods for K&K and Similar, Which Increases Output and Clarity by Around 30% VS Double-Sided Tapes)
- Install Acoustic Pickup and Endpin Jack (K&K Trinity): $150
- Banjo or Mandolin Transducer Pickup Installation: $120+
- Output Jack Replacement: $70 (+Parts)
- Jack Re-Soldering: $60
- Pot Replacement: $75 (+$40 Each Additional)
Major restorations are welcome after a free thorough inspection (please allow ample timeframe to do work properly).
Anything not listed can still be inquired about, as we are able to accommodate many other issues or ideas you may have! Contact us today to learn more about our stringed instrument repair services.