How Long Does a Steinway Piano Restoration Take?

Restoring a Steinway piano takes time, patience, and skill. If you’re considering bringing your beloved Steinway back to life, one of the first questions you’ll ask is: How long does it take?

The short answer? It depends. A full Steinway piano restoration typically takes anywhere from 4 months to 6 months, depending on several key factors. A severely damaged Steinway piano may take 12+ months to fully restore.

While that may seem like a long time, a proper restoration ensures that your instrument not only looks stunning but also plays and sounds as beautifully as it did when it was first built—or even better.

What Affects the Timeline?

Every Steinway is unique, and so is every restoration. Here’s what determines how long the process will take:

The Condition of the Piano

A well-maintained Steinway that just needs minor refinishing or repairs may be completed in a few months. However, a piano that has been neglected for decades, has structural damage, or requires new strings, soundboard, and action parts will take much longer—closer to 4-6 months or more.

The Scope of Restoration

Not all restorations are the same. Some pianos need a simple refurbishment—polishing the exterior, fixing minor wear and tear, and re-tuning. Others require a complete rebuild, replacing key components like the action, strings, and even the soundboard. A complete restoration takes significantly more time, often between 4-6 months, because each part must be carefully fitted and fine-tuned.

Availability of Parts

Steinway pianos, especially older or antique models, often need custom-made parts to match the original craftsmanship. Ordering and fitting these specialized components can add time to the process. If the required parts are readily available, the restoration will move faster. If they need to be custom-fabricated, expect some delays.

Expertise and Attention to Detail

Steinway pianos are among the finest in the world, and restoring one properly isn’t something that can be rushed. Skilled technicians carefully rebuild, refinish, and adjust every element to bring the piano back to its peak performance. Quality work takes time—every stage must be meticulously completed and tested to ensure the best sound, touch, and longevity.

What to Expect for Your Steinway?

● For minor repairs and refinishing – Expect around 1 month
● For a full restoration – Plan for 4-6 months
● For antique or severely damaged pianos – It can take 12+ months, depending on the complexity of the project.

Is It Worth the Wait?

Absolutely. A properly restored Steinway is an investment that lasts for generations. A well- executed restoration will not only revive the sound and beauty of your piano but can also increase its value. Many Steinway owners find that restoring their Steinway piano is far more cost-effective than purchasing a brand-new one of similar quality.

BRADFIELD PIANO

Final Thoughts

While it can be tempting to seek a faster turnaround, restoring a Steinway is not a process that should be rushed. Each step is essential to preserving the quality, sound, and feel that makes a Steinway piano special. If you’re considering a restoration, patience will reward you with an instrument that looks, plays, and sounds like new—for decades to come. At Bradfield Piano, we specialize in restoring Steinway pianos with precision and care. If you’re curious about how long your specific restoration will take, reach out to us today for a consultation. We’ll assess your piano and give you a detailed estimate of the timeline and process involved