5 Signs Your Piano Needs More Than Just a Tuning
Recognize When Your Piano Requires Extra Care
At Alexander James Piano Services, we know that a piano is more than just an instrument—it’s an investment in music and memories. While regular tuning keeps your piano sounding its best, some issues go beyond pitch adjustments. If you notice certain signs, your piano might need more comprehensive care, such as action regulation or minor repairs. This blog outlines five key indicators that your piano needs more than a standard tuning, helping you maintain its performance and longevity.
1. Sticky or Slow Keys
Sign: Keys that stick, feel sluggish, or don’t return to their resting position smoothly.
Why It Matters: This often results from worn bushings, swollen wood from humidity, or debris buildup, all of which affect playability. Tuning won’t fix mechanical issues—regulation or cleaning is needed.
Action: Book a service to inspect and adjust the action mechanism.
2. Uneven Tone or Volume
Sign: Some notes sound louder, softer, or different in timbre compared to others.
Why It Matters: Uneven tone can stem from misaligned hammers or worn felts, issues that tuning alone can’t resolve. Regulation or voicing may be required to balance the sound.
Action: Schedule a technician visit to assess hammer alignment and tone consistency.
3. Slow or Unreliable Key Repetition
Sign: Keys don’t repeat quickly when played in rapid succession, especially in fast passages.
Why It Matters: This indicates wear in the repetition mechanism, a common issue in older pianos. Tuning adjusts pitch, but regulation fine-tunes the action for responsiveness.
Action: Request a regulation check to restore quick, reliable playing.
4. Buzzing or Rattling Noises
Sign: Unusual buzzing, rattling, or clicking sounds when keys are pressed.
Why It Matters: These noises often come from loose components, such as dampers, strings, or screws, rather than pitch issues. Minor repairs or a thorough inspection are necessary.
Action: Contact us to diagnose and fix the source of the noise.
5. Visible Wear or Damage
Sign: Cracks in the soundboard, loose tuning pins, or worn hammers visible during play.
Why It Matters: Physical damage affects both sound and structure, requiring repairs beyond tuning. Neglecting this can lead to costly fixes later.
Action: Arrange a comprehensive service to address structural and mechanical concerns.
Why Act Beyond Tuning?
Tuning restores pitch, but it doesn’t address the mechanical or structural health of your piano. Issues like sticky keys or buzzing noises can worsen without regulation or repairs, impacting your playing experience and the instrument’s value. At Alexander James Piano Services, we offer tailored solutions, from fine regulation to minor fixes like addressing sticky keys, ensuring your piano performs at its peak.
When to Seek Help
If you’ve noticed any of these signs—especially if they persist after tuning—it’s time to go beyond a standard appointment. Regular maintenance, including annual tuning and periodic regulation (every 5-10 years), keeps these problems at bay. Mention any concerns when booking, and we’ll assess your piano’s needs during the visit.
Conclusion: Keep Your Piano in Top Shape
Your piano deserves more than just a tune-up when these signs appear. Recognizing when it needs regulation or repairs ensures it stays a joy to play for years. Trust Alexander James Piano Services to provide expert care tailored to your instrument. Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive check and get your piano back to its best!