Will you install new ivory key tops?

Unfortunately, we will not install any new ivory key tops regardless if the ivory is pre-ban. However we are VERY excited about a new material called Elforyn super tusk that is a nearly perfect synthetic ivory. See photo gallery for some great visuals or ask about a sample kit!

Will my old ivory key tops be returned?

We recognize that some technicians, rebuilders, and piano owners value their old ivories as they were the original key tops and ivories can be used to repair existing ivories for other pianos. When it comes to ivory, we always strive to preserve them as much as possible. However, if a heat activated glue was not used during adhesion there may be little we can do to remove them without damage. At that point, the priority is the preservation of the key stick and we will use a router table and sled to carefully remove the ivory. We will not attempt to preserve or return anything other than ivory as antique plastic has absolutely no value.

Can you replace missing or damaged keys?

Yes! We can replicate a missing or catastrophically damaged keys. Once we take all relevant data from adjacent keys we use computer aided design and a CNC router to make a nearly perfect replacement. We will bush the keys if provided the key pin sizes. However, if the key is missing entirely, the key top will not match (unless the key set as a whole is being recovered), the weigh-off will need to be done, and the backcheck (if applicable) will need to be installed. For the aforementioned services we need the key frame and regulated action.

How are key tops removed?

Key tops are removed one of two ways. First, we use a heat lamp to soften the glue in the hope that a heat activated adhesive was used. Then we carefully pry off the existing key tops and scrape off any residue. Second, if a heat activated glue was not used we use a custom router table designed specifically for removing key tops.

Will you replace key fronts?

Key fronts should always be replace when getting new keytops put on. However, if we need to replace a substantial number we will recommend all new fronts for uniformity. Depending on key tops/fronts, new key fronts will be 0.030”- 0.070” thick and may require the key slip be slightly adjusted. We include key fronts into all pricing of key tops so expect a new set of fronts when you place an order.

Will I need to relevel my keys?

New key tops can raise your key height depending on the difference in thickness of existing and new key tops. We aim to retain the original key thickness and by extension the overall key height within 0.005”. However, minor leveling may be required upon reinstallation.

Should I remove the old key tops before sending them?

Unless you are shipping from outside the USA there is no need to remove old keytops of ANY variety prior to shipping. If you ARE shipping from outside the USA we recommend removing ivories to prevent them being seized by customs and border control. Adhesives for key tops vary as widely as the skill level of technicians who remove them. If keys arrive damaged due to improper removal we may need to repair them before replacement can begin. Repairing keys is costly and delays production as we will not sacrifice quality for time. See Photo gallery for example of key repairs.

We will return any salvageable ivory key tops at your request. Due to the thinness and fragility of old ivories, our salvage rate is approximately 75-90% . As of the publishing of this FAQ page It is perfectly legal to ship keys (within the USA) with old ivories on them and return ship the removed ivories as they are not considered “new ivory”.

How long does it take to recover a set of keys?

This all depends on the scope of work required. The typical turnaround time for a standard Reyburn Ivocor, Tharan or Ivoplast, expect around two weeks from starting the job. Any additional services added will increase turnaround time. For example, a soup-to-nuts job with new keytops/fronts, new sharps, sharp blacking, capstan buffing, and key bushing will take 4-6 weeks from start to completion. we typically run several key sets simultaneously to maximize work-flow efficiency. Damaged keys can dramatically increase completion time and cost.

As we typically have several jobs running simultaneously, we try to begin work on keysets in the order we receive deposits and give you a completion date estimate at that time. Please bear in mind that these are only estimates and do not account for unforeseen circumstances like hidden damage, additional services requested post-estimate, or uncontrollable shipping delays.