Howard Piano Industries offers a wide selection of replacement piano keytop options. The video below shows the different styles we have available as well as the differences between the various options.
Piano Key Replacement – Renewing Your Piano's Keys
Over years of use, piano keytops can become chipped, yellowed, or even fall off entirely. A proper piano key replacement (replacing the keytops on the wooden keys) gives your instrument a fresh, clean look and a consistent feel under your fingers. Whether you own an upright or a grand, the process of piano key top replacement is essentially the same once the keys are accessible. With patience and the right supplies, even hobbyists can tackle replacing piano keytops and bring new life to their beloved piano.
What's Involved in Replacing Piano Keytops?
Replacing keytops means carefully removing the old or damaged piano key tops, preparing the key surface, and then fitting and gluing new keytops in place. It's a detail-oriented task – alignment is crucial so that each key feels smooth and looks even. Typically, you would remove any remaining pieces of the old top, lightly sand the wooden key for a smooth surface, and use a quality adhesive to attach the new top. Choosing the right glue is important (many technicians use specialized adhesives from our Glues and Lubricants section, like PVC-E glue, for a strong bond). After gluing, the new keytops are usually clamped or pressed until set, then any minor overhangs are filed flush. While this isn't a full step-by-step guide, it gives an idea of the care required. The results are well worth it - a complete set of new keytops makes a piano look years younger and can greatly improve the playing experience.
Quality Materials for Longevity and Aesthetics
When undertaking a piano keys replacement project, using high-quality materials is essential for long-term satisfaction. Modern piano keytops are made from durable plastics and resins that resist yellowing and cracking. Many pianists opt for modern simulated ivory keytops which mimic the texture of ivory while being legal and sustainable. If your piano has original ivory key surfaces that are worn or missing, replacing them with top-grade plastic or simulated ivory keytops will ensure a uniform look and feel across all keys. Be sure to get the correct type and size of keytops for your instrument (for instance, upright and grand pianos may have slightly different key dimensions). High-quality replacement keytops from Howard Piano Industries are designed for optimal fit and appearance, so your piano keys replacement not only looks elegant but also stands up to decades of playing. And don't forget the other necessities: our store offers all the necessary piano repair tools and even quality felt, cloth & leather parts you might need - from blades for removing old keytops to fine files for finishing edges.
Addressing Related Key Issues
Installing new keytops is often just one part of rejuvenating your piano's keyboard. It's wise to inspect and address other common issues while the keys are out. For example, if some keys don't press down smoothly or return properly, you may need to service the key bushings. Each key pivots on small felt bushings; worn or swollen bushings can cause sticking or wobbly keys. We provide guidance on piano key bushing replacement and products for lubricating key bushings to cure sluggish motion. Also, if a key is sticking, the culprit might be dirt, humidity, or an action issue rather than the keytop - our tutorial on diagnosing the sticking piano key can help pinpoint the cause. While replacing keytops, it's also a good opportunity to check the condition of your keybed felt and key leveling punchings. New key punchings (the small paper or felt discs under the keys) and a fresh keybed felt can improve the keyboard's touch and eliminate unwanted noises. And if your project goes beyond the keys, Howard Piano Industries carries a full range of piano action parts and other piano repair parts to help you resolve any deeper mechanical problems.
Your Partner in Piano Keytop Replacement
Howard Piano Industries is proud to support both professional piano technicians and DIY hobbyists in their piano maintenance projects. We offer a broad selection of replacement keytops and supplies, backed by knowledgeable service and educational resources. Not only can you find the right parts, but you can also learn how to use them through our video tutorials and blog articles (for instance, our video guide on keytop options can help you choose between different styles of keytops). If you plan to do it yourself, our inventory of keytops, adhesives, and tools essentially serves as a complete piano key repair kit, providing everything you need for success. And because we ship worldwide with no minimum order, you can easily get the exact parts required for your upright piano key replacement or grand piano restoration no matter where you are. By choosing quality materials and taking advantage of expert guidance, you'll keep your piano key replacement cost down while ensuring a beautiful, long-lasting result. Count on Howard Piano Industries for the parts and know-how to make your piano keys look and play their best for years to come.
