Proper Care for an Acoustic Guitar: Storing in a Case to Prevent Damage Over Long Periods of Time
Introduction
When it comes to storing an acoustic guitar that won't be played for extended periods, proper care and storage are essential to maintain the instrument's integrity and longevity. This article provides detailed guidance on how to store your acoustic guitar in its case, ensuring it remains in excellent condition.Reducing Tension on the Neck
If you know that the guitar will be stored without playing for a while, it's advisable to reduce the tension on the neck slightly. Instead of slackening the strings completely, let them settle to a lower tension level, such as D or C. This adjustment will help alleviate stress on the neck and frets without making the guitar sound completely out of tune.Properly reducing the tension can prevent warping or bowing of the neck, which can occur when the strings are under high tension for long periods. However, do not slacken the strings entirely, as this can affect the guitar's sound and playability. It's a delicate balance that ensures the guitar stays in good condition without losing its value.
Creating an Optimal Storage Environment
To store your acoustic guitar effectively, it's crucial to create an environment that minimizes exposure to extreme temperatures and humidity. Here are some tips to achieve the right conditions: Use a climate-controlled room or space to store the guitar. This environment should be stable, with consistent temperatures and low humidity levels. Sixty to sixty-five percent relative humidity is ideal for storing a guitar. This range helps prevent warping and cracking. Avoid storing your guitar in brightly lit areas or direct sunlight, as this can cause wood and finishes to degrade over time. Ensure the guitar is stored in a place that is free from dust, debris, and potential physical damage.Additionally, choose a case that is the correct size and shape for your guitar. While a case specifically made for your model of guitar is ideal, a generic case that fits the general shape of your guitar can also work, as long as it provides sufficient protection. Storing a parlor or smaller guitar in a case designed for a larger, jumbo or super jumbo guitar can lead to poor fit and potential damage.
Humidity Control and Case Selection
Proper humidity control is key to maintaining the integrity of your acoustic guitar. Here are steps to ensure the guitar remains in good condition: Case Selection: Invest in a high-quality case that can provide the necessary protection. A hardshell case is preferable to a soft case due to its ability to shield the guitar from impacts and environmental changes. Humidification: Use a gauge to regularly check the humidity level inside the case. Humidifiers, such as a guitar humidifier or a small dehumidifier if the environment is too dry, can help maintain the ideal humidity levels. Case Inspection: Always inspect the case for any signs of wear or damage, and ensure it fits the guitar properly to prevent any shifting or uneven pressure on the instrument.Consider using a case that is well-ventilated to allow for proper airflow, which can help prevent moisture from building up. If you choose a case with a plastic cover, be aware that these can attract and retain moisture, leading to humidity-related issues and potential mold growth. Fabric cases, while breathable, can also absorb humidity, which can affect nitrocellulose finishes over time.
Regular Monitoring and Maintenance
Regular monitoring and maintenance are essential to keep your guitar in top condition: Check the guitar and case regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks in the finish or wear on the hardware. Keep the case closed tightly to prevent dust and dirt from accumulating on the guitar's surface. Inspect the guitar’s neck for any bowing or warping, especially after periods of storage. Store the guitar in a cool, dry place away from extremes of temperature and humidity, such as basements or attics. These areas can be damp and prone to temperature fluctuations, which can be harmful to acoustic guitars.Furthermore, avoid storing anything in the case that could off-gas and degrade the guitar, such as certain types of plastics like celluloid pickguards. Over time, these can release chemicals that can damage the finish or wood of the guitar. Be mindful of the materials used in your case as well, as they can also affect the guitar’s condition over extended periods.