Buyers typically pay for a refret based on fret size, wire type, and labor. Main cost drivers include fret wire material, board access, and setup time. This guide presents cost ranges in USD and practical estimates for common scenarios.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refret (fret wire + setup) | $350 | $600 | $1,000 | Nickel or stainless wire; standard fret level and crown |
| Fret wire type upgrade | $0 | $100 | $250 | Stainless or EVO wire adds cost |
| Repair work after refret | $0 | $100 | $350 | Fret leveling or crowning |
| Fret end cleanup and leveling | $50 | $120 | $260 | Basic to advanced leveling |
| Labor and shop fees | $250 | $420 | $800 | Hourly rates apply |
| Additional setup or fretwork | $0 | $60 | $200 | Nut filing, truss adjustment |
| Materials and consumables | $20 | $60 | $150 | Fret dressing supplies |
Overview Of Costs
Cost ranges for a standard guitar refret typically span from the low end around 350 to the high end near 1,000, depending on wire type and complexity. For guitars with premium wire or extensive leveling requirements, prices climb. Assumptions: standard 21 to 22 fret board, no exotic repairs, shop rates vary by region.
Cost Breakdown
The following table shows how a typical refret budget is divided. Understanding the split helps compare quotes and identify where savings may occur.
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fret wire and crown | $180 | $360 | $620 | Nickel standard; stainless adds cost |
| Labor | $150 | $280 | $520 | Hours × rate; neck access matters |
| Setup and intonation | $50 | $120 | $260 | Nut filing may be extra |
| Materials and consumables | $20 | $60 | $150 | Pollution-free cleaners, oils |
| Warranty and follow-up | $0 | $40 | $120 | Limited warranty |
| Delivery/handling | $0 | $0 | $0 | Often included |
What Drives Price
Pricing variables include fret wire type, board condition, and labor intensity. Stainless wire adds 120–250 over nickel. For a board with heavy crown wear or uneven frets, expect higher labor charges. Assumptions: standard electric guitar, no micro-setup beyond intonation.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Labor is a major portion of the cost. Typical shop rates run from 60 to 120 per hour depending on region and technician experience. A straightforward refret often takes 2 to 4 hours, while complex leveling and crowning can extend to 5–8 hours. Labor efficiency directly affects final price.
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Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by market. In urban centers, expect higher quotes, while suburban and rural shops may offer more competitive rates. Regional deltas commonly range ±15 to 30 percent.
Local Market Variations
Urban regions with high labor costs typically show higher base rates for refrets. In contrast, shop specials in smaller towns can reduce overall expense. Assumptions: three representative markets
Labor & Installation Time
Time sensitivity affects price; expedited work or after-hours service incurs premiums. A standard refret is often scheduled during regular hours with predictable time blocks. Scheduling flexibility can reduce or raise costs.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden or optional items to consider include nut filing, partial fret replacements, or a full refret with crown reshaping. Some shops include basic setup, while others bill separately. Assumptions: no structural repairs needed.
Real World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical outcomes with different specs and scopes. Each card shows specs, time, per-unit pricing, and total estimates.
Basic: 21 frets, nickel wire, standard crown, minimal leveling. Specs this year; labor 2.5 hours at 80 per hour. Total around 350–420.
Mid-Range: 22 frets, nickel wire, modest leveling and crown, nut clean-up. Labor 3.5 hours at 90 per hour. Total around 520–700.
Premium: 22 frets, stainless wire, heavy leveling, crown rework, nut filing, setup. Labor 5 hours at 100 per hour. Total around 800–1,000.
Assumptions: electric guitar, standard radius, normal wear.