Acoustic guitars are one of the most popular instruments in the world. The sounds they can create are unique and unforgettable. However, they can also become damaged, whether this is due to overuse or because they’re not given the care and attention they should be. Knowing how to undertake acoustic guitar repairs yourself is a crucial part of even owning a guitar. Here are some top tips that will help you repair your guitar if it does get damaged.

String Buzz

If you’re getting string buzz then it might be the case that you need to replace the frets, as this problem usually occurs when they start to wear out. However, replacing guitar frets isn’t like replacing the strings; you don’t have to do them all at once for the best sound. Simply look at which frets are causing your strings to buzz, and then arrange to replace the ones you need to.

You might be able to replace one or two frets without removing the strings of the guitar completely, but be prepared to do this if you need to.

Trim Repairs

The most common reason you’ll need to carry out trim repairs is because of the age of your acoustic guitar. While the trim can shrink over time, this isn’t a major problem if you deal with it as often as you can. If it does shrink, simply heat it, peel it off, and then glue it back down.

If you do need to replace the trim completely, ensure you are careful when you’re peeling it off as you don’t want to mark or damage the finish of the guitar. You should always aim to place the new trim straight back on, but ensure your guitar is somewhere clean and safe if this isn’t going to be possible.

Cracks

If you have a crack in your acoustic guitar because you’ve dropped it or it has become damaged in any other way, then you’ll probably be better off replacing the whole thing. However, if you notice small cracks due to natural ageing, these can easily be fixed by carefully pushing the pieces together and then securing with quick drying glue.

For larger cracks, you might need to follow the splicing process – cutting a new piece of wood for the crack. You can do this yourself or get a professional to do it, but the main thing to remember is to get a grain as close as possible to your current guitar, to make the damage and replaced section less noticeable.

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