Learn how to store a piano safely with these 5 expert tips. This complete guide will help you keep your piano in top condition during storage.
1. Introduction to piano storage:
When it comes to storing a piano, it’s important to understand that these instruments are delicate and require special care. Whether you’re looking to clear up space in your home or need to store a piano temporarily, proper storage is essential to prevent damage. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to safely store a piano in a storage unit, from choosing the right space to hiring a professional mover.
Factors to consider when storing a piano:
– Climate-controlled space: Pianos should be stored in a low-humidity, climate-controlled environment to protect them from damage caused by fluctuating temperatures and high humidity.
– Size of the storage space: The size of the piano and your storage plans will determine the size of the storage space needed. Leave enough room around the piano to move freely and store additional items.
– Protection from dust and debris: It’s important to shield the piano from dust, dirt, and debris to prevent internal and external damage. Thoroughly covering the piano and keeping it away from other items in the storage unit can help prevent damage.
By considering these factors and following the proper storage techniques, you can ensure that your piano remains in good condition while in storage.
2. Tip 1: Choosing the Right Location
When choosing a location to store your piano, it’s important to prioritize a low-humidity, climate-controlled space. This will help protect the internal parts of the piano from high humidity, fluctuating temperatures, and other undesirable conditions. Conventional storage spaces are not suitable for pianos, as they do not provide the necessary protection. Ensure that the storage unit you choose has the right environmental conditions to keep your piano safe.
Factors to Consider:
– Look for a storage facility that offers climate-controlled units to maintain a stable environment for your piano.
– Consider the size of the storage space and ensure that it can accommodate the piano comfortably, allowing for some extra space around it.
– Check for any potential sources of damage, such as exposure to sunlight or proximity to other items in the storage unit.
By carefully selecting the right location for your piano storage, you can ensure that the instrument remains in optimal condition while in storage.
3. Tip 2: Proper Covering and Protection
When it comes to storing a piano, proper covering and protection are essential to prevent damage from dust, dirt, and other environmental factors. To ensure the piano is adequately covered, start by using a high-quality, breathable piano cover that fits snugly over the entire instrument. This will protect the surface from scratches and other physical damage, as well as shield it from sunlight if stored in a room with windows. Additionally, consider using heavy-duty moving blankets to provide an extra layer of protection against potential impact or abrasion during the moving and storage process.
Using Plastic Wrap
In addition to using a piano cover and moving blankets, consider wrapping the covered piano in plastic wrap to provide an additional barrier against dust, dirt, and grime. The plastic wrap will help to seal out any unwanted particles and provide a further level of protection for the instrument. When using plastic wrap, be sure to wrap the piano carefully to avoid causing any damage to the surface or keys. It’s important to use a high-quality, durable plastic wrap to ensure the piano is adequately protected during storage.
By using a combination of a piano cover, moving blankets, and plastic wrap, you can ensure that your piano is properly covered and protected while in storage. This will help to safeguard the instrument from potential damage and preserve its condition for future use.
4. Tip 3: Piano Disassembly and Moving
Disassembly
Before moving a piano, it may be necessary to disassemble certain parts to make the process easier and safer. For grand pianos, the legs, lyre, and music desk should be removed. For upright pianos, the pedals, music stand, and sometimes the top panel may need to be taken off. It’s important to label and keep track of all the disassembled parts to ensure they are put back together correctly.
Moving
When it comes to moving a piano, it’s crucial to have the right equipment and expertise. Professional piano movers have the necessary tools, such as skid boards, ramps, and straps, to safely transport the instrument. They also have the experience and knowledge to navigate through doorways, stairs, and tight spaces without causing damage to the piano or the surroundings. Hiring a professional mover ensures that the piano is moved with care and precision, minimizing the risk of injury and damage.
5. Tip 4: Maintenance and Tuning
Regular Maintenance
After moving and storing a piano, it’s important to perform regular maintenance to keep it in peak condition. This includes periodically unwrapping the piano to give it some breathing room and checking for any signs of damage. While it’s essential to keep the piano covered to protect it from dust and dirt, allowing it some ventilation from time to time is also crucial. However, it’s important not to unwrap it too often, as excessive exposure can lead to potential damage.
Tuning the Piano
Pianos should be tuned after they are moved out of storage. While some experts believe it’s not necessary to tune them beforehand, it may cost more to tune an older instrument when removing it from storage due to its increased sensitivity. Pianos gradually detune over time, regardless of how much they are played, so it’s important to have them tuned periodically. If the instrument will be stored for a year or longer, the cost of tuning may be higher because the tuner will spend more time increasing string tension to create the right pitch. By choosing a climate-controlled storage facility, the risk of future tuning issues is decreased.
6. Tip 5: Reinstallation and Careful Unpacking
After safely storing your piano, the next step is to carefully reinstall it in your home. This process should be done with caution to avoid any damage to the instrument. It’s important to hire a professional piano mover to ensure that the reinstallation is done correctly and safely. They will have the expertise and experience to handle the piano with care and precision, minimizing the risk of any mishaps during the process.
Reinstallation Process
When reinstalling the piano, the mover will carefully unpack and position the instrument in its designated location. They will ensure that the piano is placed on a level surface to prevent any structural damage. Additionally, the mover will reassemble any parts that were disassembled during the storage process, such as the piano legs or pedals. Proper reinstallation is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the piano and ensuring that it functions properly.
Careful Unpacking
Once the piano has been repositioned, the mover will carefully unpack the protective coverings and blankets that were used during storage. This should be done gently to avoid any scratches or damage to the piano’s surface. The mover will also inspect the instrument for any signs of damage that may have occurred during storage or transportation. By taking the time to carefully unpack the piano, you can ensure that it is ready to be played and enjoyed once again.
In conclusion, storing a piano safely requires proper preparation, climate control, and protective coverings. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your piano remains in good condition while in storage.