Refretting a guitar is a detailed service that affects playability and tone. Prices vary by instrument type, fretboard material, and the extent of work required. The main cost drivers are fret material, fret level and crown work, masking of the fingerboard, and whether new frets are installed. Understanding the cost range helps buyers budget for basic maintenance or a professional upgrade.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic fret dressing (no fret replacement) | $150 | $250 | $400 | Light leveling and crowning; no new frets |
| Full refret with replacement frets | $400 | $700 | $1,200 | Nickel-silver frets standard; stainless steel higher |
| Fretboard material upgrade | $50 | $150 | $350 | Rosewood, ebony, or exotic woods |
| Setup after refret | $40 | $80 | $150 | Intonation, truss rod, relief |
| Total project range | $200 | $600 | $1,800 | Assumes instrument in playable condition |
Overview Of Costs
Assumptions: region, instrument type, fret material, and labor hours. A typical guitar refret ranges from a basic fret dressing to a full replacement with new frets. Basic fret dressing on a standard 22-fret guitar without fret replacement usually costs between $150 and $400, depending on the shop and fretboard condition. A full refret with new frets and leveling commonly falls in the $500–$1,000 range, though high-end setups or stainless steel frets can push $1,200 or more. For bass guitars or multi-scale instruments, adjust pricing upward by roughly 10–25% to reflect additional fret counts and setup time. Pricing is influenced by fret material, instrument scale length, and the amount of fretwork required.
Cost Breakdown
| Materials | Labor | Equipment | Permits | Delivery/Disposal | Warranty | Contingency | Taxes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $50–$350 | $100–$850 | $40–$120 | $0–$50 | $0–$20 | 6–12 months | 5–15% | 0–9% |
Examples: materials include fretwire (nickel-silver or stainless steel); labor covers fret leveling, crowning, and cleanup; contingency accounts for unexpected fretboard issues. A mini formula can help estimate effort: data-formula=”labor_hours × hourly_rate”> where labor hours depend on fret count and board condition.
What Drives Price
Fret material and durability – nickel-silver frets are standard; stainless steel lasts longer and costs more. Fret count and scale length – longer scale or more frets add labor time. Additional work such as binding, inlays, or ebony fretboards increases price.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Labor typically accounts for the majority of the cost. A standard refret may require 2–6 hours for dress-only work and 6–12 hours for a full replacement on a 22–24 fret guitar. Regional wage differences can shift hourly rates from roughly $40 to $120. Timing and technician expertise influence both price and turnaround.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by market. In urban centers, expect higher base labor rates that reflect higher overhead. Suburban shops may offer lower hourly rates but longer wait times, and rural shops may present the lowest pricing with potentially longer turnaround. Regional variance can amount to ±15–30% from national averages.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Some shops charge for intonation and setup as separate line items. If the fretboard requires leveling beyond standard, or if a re-fret necessitates fretwire replacement with a more expensive alloy, costs rise. Hidden fees may include a clamp/drying fee or expedited service surcharges. Always confirm whether setup and warranty are included.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Assumptions: standard 22-fret electric guitar, nickel-silver frets, no binding; basic or textured fretboard finish.
- Basic Scenario — Fret dressing only, 2–3 hours labor, standard nickel-silver fretwire, setup included: Total $200-$350; $/hour $60–$110.
- Mid-Range Scenario — Full refret with nickel-silver frets, 6–9 hours labor, fret leveling, crowning, dressing, and setup: Total $550-$900; $/hour $70–$100.
- Premium Scenario — Full refret with stainless steel frets, longer neck or high-demand instrument, 9–12 hours labor, premium fretwire, special fretboard prep, and thorough setup: Total $1,000-$1,800; $/hour $90–$130.
Notes: pricing reflects typical U.S. shops; ship-in or in-store service may alter totals due to instrument condition and turnaround.
Price By Region
Regional differences impact absolute totals, with urban centers showing higher median prices compared to rural areas. For example, a full refret might be about 12–25% higher in a large metro than in a rural shop, after adjusting for labor rates and shop overhead. Always compare local quotes to gauge best value.
Budget Tips
To manage costs, consider scheduling a basic fret dressing before opting for a full refret. If the board is in good condition, this can extend fret life without a full replacement. Some shops offer bundled pricing when multiple maintenance tasks are done in one visit. Ask for a written estimate with line-item details.