Fret sprout? What the hell is it??
Understanding Fret Sprout on Guitars and How to Prevent & Remedy It
If you’re a guitar player, you may have encountered an issue that can affect both your playing comfort and the lifespan of your instrument: fret sprout. While this problem might not be immediately apparent, it can become increasingly noticeable over time, leading to a less enjoyable playing experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, understanding fret sprout and knowing how to prevent or remedy it can ensure that your guitar stays in top condition for years to come.
What is Fret Sprout?
Fret sprout occurs when the metal frets of your guitar protrude from the edges of the fretboard, often becoming sharp or uneven. This happens when the wood of the fretboard contracts due to changes in temperature and humidity, which leaves the frets exposed. Fret sprout is particularly common in climates with fluctuating seasonal conditions, as wood naturally expands and contracts based on moisture levels in the air.
When the frets stick out, they can be uncomfortable to play, especially for fingerstyle players who might experience sharp edges digging into their hands. Not only can this cause discomfort, but it can also affect your guitar’s tone and playability if left unaddressed.
Why Does Fret Sprout Happen?
Fret sprout is often linked to environmental factors like temperature and humidity changes. Wood, being a natural material, is highly sensitive to its surroundings. When a guitar is exposed to dry or excessively humid conditions, the fretboard wood will either shrink or swell. In turn, this causes the frets to stick out beyond the surface of the fretboard, which is particularly noticeable in colder, drier months.
Other factors contributing to fret sprout include:
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Dry air: Excessively dry environments, such as heated rooms during winter, can cause wood to shrink and the frets to protrude.
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High humidity: On the other hand, high humidity can cause the wood to expand, which can also lead to fret sprout.
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Improper storage: If a guitar is left in extreme conditions (e.g., near a heater or in a damp basement), this may accelerate the issue.
How to Remedy Fret Sprout
If you’ve noticed fret sprout on your guitar, don't panic—it can be fixed! Here’s how to go about addressing the issue:
1. Trimming the Frets
A professional guitar technician or luthier can trim or file down the protruding frets to remove the sharp edges. This process requires precision and experience to avoid damaging the fretboard or the frets themselves. It’s important to leave this task to the professionals if you're unsure about doing it yourself.
2. Fretboard Dressing
Once the frets are trimmed, the fretboard may need a proper dressing, which involves smoothing out any rough spots and re-shaping the frets. This process helps restore your guitar’s playability and ensures that the frets are level.
3. Rounding Off the Edges
In some cases, the edges of the frets may need to be rounded off to avoid discomfort when playing. A luthier can do this by carefully filing the edges of the frets until they are smooth and comfortable for the player’s hand.
4. Conditioning the Fretboard
One of the best ways to prevent fret sprout is to take proactive care of your fretboard, and conditioning the wood plays a crucial role. When the fretboard is conditioned properly, it’s less likely to contract and expand drastically, which means less risk of fret sprout. Here's how to do it:
Conditioning the Fretboard
Conditioning your fretboard is an essential part of routine guitar maintenance. A well-maintained fretboard will be more resistant to changes in humidity, making fret sprout less likely to occur. Here’s how to condition your fretboard and keep it in top shape:
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Choose the Right Fretboard Oil or Conditioner: Depending on the wood of your guitar's fretboard, you may want to use a specific type of fretboard oil or conditioner. For example, rosewood and ebony fretboards benefit from oils that nourish and protect the wood, while maple fretboards generally don’t need oil, as they are typically sealed.
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Clean the Fretboard: Before applying any oil or conditioner, clean your fretboard to remove grime, dust, and old conditioner. Use a soft cloth and a gentle fretboard cleaner to wipe down the wood.
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Apply Conditioner Sparingly: Apply a small amount of fretboard conditioner to a clean, lint-free cloth, and rub it into the wood. Make sure to spread the oil evenly and avoid over-applying, as excess conditioner can leave a residue.
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Allow It to Absorb: Let the conditioner sit for a few minutes to allow the wood to absorb it. Wipe off any excess oil with a clean cloth to avoid leaving the fretboard too greasy.
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Don’t Forget the Frets: While conditioning the fretboard, make sure to avoid getting oil on the frets themselves. It’s best to keep the oil limited to the wood, as excess oil on metal frets can cause corrosion over time.
5. Proper Storage
Once your guitar is conditioned and in good shape, the way you store it can play a big role in preventing fret sprout in the future. Use a humidifier to maintain consistent humidity levels in your home, especially during dry seasons. If you live in an area with extreme temperature changes, consider using a guitar case humidifier to maintain a balanced moisture level around your instrument.
Additionally, avoid storing your guitar in places with drastic temperature fluctuations, such as next to heaters or in cold basements.
How to Prevent Fret Sprout
Preventing fret sprout is all about proper maintenance and storing your guitar in a stable environment. Here are some tips to keep fret sprout from happening:
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Control Humidity: Maintain a stable humidity level (around 40-50%) where you store your guitar. Use a room humidifier or invest in a guitar case humidifier to control moisture levels.
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Use a Guitar Stand or Wall Hanger: Avoid leaning your guitar against walls or placing it in areas where extreme temperature changes occur. A stable, climate-controlled environment is best for your guitar.
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Store in a Proper Case: When not in use, store your guitar in its case, especially during seasons of high humidity or dry conditions. A case helps protect your guitar from the elements.
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Regularly Condition the Fretboard: As mentioned earlier, conditioning your fretboard regularly helps prevent the wood from drying out and expanding. A well-conditioned fretboard remains more stable, preventing issues like fret sprout.
Conclusion
Fret sprout can be a frustrating issue, but with proper care, it can be avoided or fixed. By maintaining a stable environment for your guitar, conditioning the fretboard regularly, and addressing any fret sprout promptly, you can keep your instrument playing comfortably and sounding great for years to come. Whether you’re taking care of a vintage piece or a brand-new axe, a little attention goes a long way toward ensuring your guitar remains in top shape.
If you do notice fret sprout on your guitar, don’t hesitate to reach out so we can remedy the situation. With the right steps, you can enjoy a smooth playing experience free of discomfort and fretboard issues. Happy playing!