Fretwork
Consultation:
The decision of when, and how to go about fretwork is an important one. I offer free consultations regarding all fretwork.
Do I need a fret level or a refret?
The decision to level or replace frets is informed by a few factors: The level of wear on the current frets, condition and trueness of the fretboard, and playing style all factor into the decision. Generally, if the lowest, most worn section of a fret is under .025”, the frets need to be replaced. However that is not always a steadfast rule. If you are someone who bends a lot, or does a lot of lead work, a replacement with a nice, tall fretwire will provide a much better playing experience than playing on lower frets. However for an acoustic or rhythm player, or even a bassist, a lower fret height will be acceptable for the time being.
Fret Level
Fret Level $175 + applicable setup rate
Involves removing material from the top off all the frets until they are all in the same plane. Some cases require special shaping (fallaway on acoustic guitars, or compensation for necks that show a small twist or distortion) which is included in this rate. The frets are then recrowned and polished to a slick, mirror shine.
Refret
Refret on an unbound neck $440 + applicable setup rate
Refrets include truing of the fingerboard itself. I personally always hammer in, then clamp (with an appropriately radiused caul) and glue in my frets to prevent them from becoming unseated, and to improve coupling of the fret to the neck to improve resonance. By doing fretwork this way, very little of the new frets needs to be removed in the levelling process. This means your new frets will have more material left after levelling, extending their useful life.
Refret on a bound neck $500 + applicable setup rate
Frets must be shaped before installing to fit inside the binding.
Fret edge dress $75
Due to wood shrinkage over time, fret edges can protrude from the neck causing discomfort. This charge will knock the edges back down, making the neck comfortable again.
Stainless Steel Frets of any size add $75
A note on maple fretboards
Maple boards most often have a finish on them. Depending on the condition of the neck, this finish may not need to be disturbed. However, if the board itself is in need of truing, the surface of the finish will need to be removed. I have several options for replacement that can be discussed. Finish work beyond minor touchups will be extra.
