Mistakes Guitar Owners Make
Owning a guitar is not just about strumming chords or shredding solos; it’s about maintaining an instrument that can last a lifetime. However, many guitar owners unknowingly make mistakes that can compromise the integrity and longevity of their instruments. In this article, we’ll dive into the top five Mistakes Guitar Owners Make to help you keep your guitar in pristine condition.
1. Neglecting Humidity Control
Humidity control is a critical aspect of guitar maintenance, particularly during the winter months when heating systems are in full swing. The air in heated homes tends to be dry, often dropping below the ideal humidity range of 45% to 55% for guitars. This dryness can cause the wood to shrink and crack, leading to severe structural damage. Guitars, especially those made of solid wood, are incredibly sensitive to changes in humidity because wood is a hygroscopic material, meaning it absorbs and releases moisture according to the surrounding environment.
Too little humidity can cause the guitar’s top to sink, the bridge to lower, and the neck to back-bow, leading to a host of playability issues. Conversely, excessive moisture can cause the wood to swell, leading to raised action, buzzing, and even cracking of the finish. To prevent these issues, invest in a good-quality humidifier for your guitar case. Regularly monitor humidity levels using a hygrometer, and adjust accordingly to keep your guitar safe from the perils of dry air.
During the winter, when the air is particularly dry, consider using a room humidifier in addition to a case humidifier to maintain a stable environment for your guitar. Remember, prevention is key; maintaining the right humidity levels can save you from costly repairs and ensure your guitar remains in excellent condition for years to come.
2. Storing Under String Tension
Many guitar owners mistakenly store their instruments with full string tension, not realizing the potential damage it can cause over time. The constant tension from the strings can lead to the warping of the neck and the top of the guitar, and in severe cases, it can cause the bridge to lift or even detach. The tension exerted by the strings is significant, with steel strings applying around 150 to 200 pounds of force on the guitar’s neck and body.
If you’re storing your guitar for an extended period, it’s advisable to loosen the strings completely. This relieves the tension, helping to maintain the structural integrity of the neck and body. This is especially important for vintage guitars or those with older, more fragile structures. Over time, the wood can become less resilient, and the constant pressure may exacerbate any existing weaknesses.
After playing your instrument you can loosen the strings lightly (2-3 turns). In this case you can easily retune it the next time. Additionally, if you own multiple guitars, consider using alternate tunings that require less tension, or experimenting with lighter gauge strings to reduce the stress on the instrument.
3. Exposure to Harmful Environmental Influences
Guitars are sensitive to environmental changes, and exposure to harmful elements like direct sunlight, temperature fluctuations, and excessive moisture can wreak havoc on them. Direct sunlight can fade the finish and dry out the wood, leading to warped structures and compromised sound quality. Rapid temperature changes can cause the wood to expand and contract, leading to cracks and other structural issues.
Always store your guitar in a stable environment, ideally in a hard case. Avoid places where it’s exposed to direct sunlight or moisture, such as near windows or in basements. Keeping your guitar in a consistent environment helps preserve its structural integrity and ensures it continues to produce quality sound over time.
4. Over-Maintenance with Inappropriate Products
While regular cleaning is essential, over-maintenance or using unsuitable products can damage your guitar. Different finishes require different cleaning agents, and using the wrong one can strip the finish or leave residues. For instance, nitrocellulose finishes are delicate and can be damaged by harsh chemicals. Always use products recommended for your guitar’s specific finish, and remember that less is often more when it comes to cleaning. A soft, dry cloth is usually sufficient for regular maintenance.
5. Skipping Professional Check-Ups
Many guitar owners overlook the importance of regular professional check-ups. Just like a car, your guitar benefits from periodic inspections by a skilled technician or luthier. These experts can identify and rectify issues that might not be apparent to the untrained eye, such as subtle neck warps or fret wear. Regular check-ups ensure that your guitar is always in optimal playing condition, preventing minor issues from turning into costly repairs. Aim to have your guitar professionally inspected at least once a year.
Conclusion
Avoiding these common Mistakes Guitar Owners Make can significantly extend the life of your guitar, ensuring that it continues to sound and play beautifully for years to come. By maintaining proper humidity levels, relieving string tension during storage, protecting your guitar from environmental hazards, using appropriate cleaning products, and scheduling regular professional check-ups, you can safeguard your instrument against unnecessary wear and tear. Remember, a well-cared-for guitar is not only a joy to play but also a wise investment that retains its value and beauty over time.