Guitar Restoration
At Colorado Guitar Repair, we specialize in guitar restoration, particularly historical restoration work. It is a discipline that requires the utmost attention to originality: respecting both the methods and the tradition in which an instrument was made, so that every repair is as ethical and informed as it can be.
Luthier Andrew Mullane has been committed to bringing instruments back to life for over 10 years. That work builds on his formative experience apprenticing with well-known Canadian master luthier Edward Victor Dick, whom he still works alongside, and it brings together a passion for woodworking, history, and music.
Whether it's a beloved vintage instrument or a well-loved guitar showing its age, our restoration services are designed to preserve the soul of your guitar while keeping it playable. Below you will find the instruments and traditions we work on, followed by the restoration services we offer.
Instruments and traditions we work on
Acoustic
- 19th century French, Italian, and German guitars
- Martin guitars, from the 19th century to the present day
- Turn of the century Gibson guitars
- European and American harp guitars, from the early 19th century to WWII
- 20th century Franco-Sicilian guitars (gypsy jazz, jazz manouche)
- Late baroque guitars (Italian and French, 18th to 19th century)
- English Regency period Edward Light instruments (the harp-lute family)
- German and Austrian romantic guitars (Vienna and Markneukirchen)
- 19th and 20th century Spanish guitars (Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia)
- Portuguese guitars
- English and French citterns and their variants (18th to 20th century)
- Renaissance and baroque lutes
- Antique and modern Arabic ouds
Electric
- 1950s and 1960s Fender guitars
- Soviet era Eastern European electric guitars
- German archtops
- Vintage American archtops and jazz guitars (Gibson, Epiphone, D'Angelico) and their variants
If your instrument falls outside of these styles, don't fret. Get in touch with us, and if we are not best suited for the job, we have a large network and reference list to put you in touch with someone who can best cater to your instrument's needs. Contact us or call (720) 503-2830.
Restoration services
Vintage Guitar Restoration
Vintage guitars are treasures that deserve meticulous care. Our restoration process respects the original character and craftsmanship of the instrument. We address common issues like worn frets, cracked finishes, and aging components while ensuring the tone and feel remain authentic. Let us preserve the history and value of your cherished vintage guitar.
Structural Repairs
Structural damage, such as cracks, splits, or loose bracing, can severely impact a guitar's sound and longevity. We provide expert repairs to restore the structural integrity of your instrument. Using precision techniques and high-quality adhesives, we ensure your guitar is as strong and stable as the day it was built, without compromising its tonal qualities.
Finish Restoration and Refinishing
Scratches, dings, and worn-out finishes are common signs of a guitar's journey through life. Our finish restoration services can repair these imperfections while preserving the original look or creating a fresh new appearance. Whether you need minor touch-ups or a full refinish, we use materials and techniques that enhance your guitar's beauty while protecting its wood.
Neck Resets and Repairs
Over time, a guitar's neck angle can shift, leading to high action and poor playability. Our neck reset services realign the neck to its proper position, ensuring smooth playing and optimal tone. For cracked or damaged necks, we offer expert repairs that restore strength and playability while maintaining the instrument's aesthetics.
Fretboard and Frets Restoration
Worn frets and dry, cracked fretboards can make even the most beautiful guitar difficult to play. We provide comprehensive fretboard conditioning and restoration, including fret leveling, crowning, polishing, or complete refretting if needed. This process restores the playability and ensures your guitar feels like new under your fingers.
Acoustic Guitar Bracing Repairs
The internal bracing of an acoustic guitar is vital for its tone and structure. Over time, braces can come loose or break, affecting the instrument's sound quality. We carefully repair or replace damaged bracing, restoring your guitar's resonance and structural stability while preserving its unique voice.
Electronics Restoration for Electric Guitars
Aging or damaged electronics can lead to inconsistent sound and reduced functionality in electric guitars. We restore and upgrade components like pickups, pots, switches, and jacks to ensure smooth and reliable performance. Whether you want to revive your guitar's original sound or give it a modern upgrade, we've got you covered.
Hardware Restoration and Replacement
Rusty or corroded hardware can affect your guitar's tuning stability and overall aesthetics. We clean, restore, or replace components like tuners, bridges, and tailpieces with precision and care. High-quality replacements are matched to your guitar's design to ensure improved functionality without sacrificing its classic look.
Binding and Inlay Restoration
Cracked or missing binding and worn inlays can detract from your guitar's beauty. Our restoration services include repairing or replacing binding to match the original style and installing new inlays for a refreshed look. These delicate repairs enhance both the instrument's appearance and value.
Humidity Damage Repair
Guitars exposed to extreme changes in humidity can develop cracks, warping, or swelling. We repair damage caused by environmental conditions and offer treatments to stabilize the wood and protect it from future issues. Proper care ensures your guitar maintains its tone and structure for years to come.
Custom Restoration Projects
Every guitar has its own story and unique needs. Our custom restoration projects are tailored to each instrument, whether it's a family heirloom or a one-of-a-kind vintage find. From complete overhauls to subtle touch-ups, we work closely with you to achieve your vision while preserving the essence of your guitar.
Before-and-After Evaluations
We document every restoration project with before-and-after evaluations, so you can see the transformation of your guitar. This transparency ensures you understand the work performed and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each repair. Your satisfaction is our top priority.