The short answer
First Steps After Water Damage
If your piano gets wet, act quickly. Remove any standing water with a soft cloth, but do not rub. Gently blot the surfaces to avoid pushing water deeper into the wood. Open the lid and the fallboard, if possible, to let air circulate. Keep the room dry and well-ventilated, but do not use a hair dryer or space heater. Direct heat can warp the soundboard and crack the finish.
Check the keys and the action. If only a few keys are damp, you might be able to dry them with a fan. But if water has soaked into the felt hammers or the wooden action parts, those parts can swell and stick. Do not force any keys that feel stuck. Forcing them can break the action. If the piano has been submerged, do not try to play it. The internal parts may be damaged beyond simple drying.
What a Piano Professional Can Do
A piano professional is the right person for this. They can take apart the action, dry each component, and replace any parts that are too damaged. They may also need to regulate the action and tune the piano after it dries. The cost depends on the piano's value and the extent of the damage. A full restoration can be expensive, but a professional can give you a clear picture after an inspection.
The professional will also check the soundboard and the pinblock. If those are warped or cracked, repairs are complex and may not be worth the cost. For a valuable or sentimental piano, restoration might be worthwhile. For a basic upright, the cost could exceed the piano's value. Ask for an honest assessment before you decide.
If the water was contaminated, such as from a flood or sewage backup, the piano may pose a health risk. In that case, do not attempt to clean it yourself. A professional may need to dispose of it. Your safety comes first.
Drying the Piano Yourself
You can dry the piano at home, but only with caution. Use a dehumidifier in the room to pull moisture from the air. Place the piano in a dry, warm (not hot) area. Open the lid and the music desk. You can also place a fan nearby, but do not point it directly at the piano. Let the air move naturally around it.
Do not use a vacuum cleaner to suck water from the keys. That can damage the felt and the wiring. Do not apply any polishes or cleaners, as they can trap moisture. Let the piano dry slowly for several days. Check for any musty odors, which could indicate mold growth. If you see mold, stop and call a mold professional.
- Blot water gently with a clean, dry cloth.
- Open the lid and fallboard to let air in.
- Use a dehumidifier or fan to circulate air.
- Avoid heat sources and direct sunlight.
- Do not play the piano until it is fully dry.
- Watch for mold or mildew growth.
When to Call a Professional
If the piano has been submerged, if the soundboard is wet, or if the keys stick, call a piano professional. They have the tools and knowledge to dry and repair the instrument properly. You can also call a water damage restoration service for the initial water extraction, but a piano professional is the one to handle the instrument itself.
Keep your piano in a climate-controlled room to reduce future risk. The local pros can help with water extraction from your home, but they will not work on the piano. A piano professional is the right specialist. If the piano is not worth repairing, you may need to dispose of it. Check with your insurance company about coverage.
- Submerged pianos need professional assessment.
- Sticking keys or swollen action parts require a professional.
- Warped soundboard or pinblock may be beyond repair.
- Contaminated water means do not touch it.
- Consider the piano's value and sentimental worth.
Preventing Future Water Damage
To protect your piano, keep it away from windows, exterior walls, and heating vents. Maintain a stable indoor humidity between 40 and 50 percent. In wet winters, use a dehumidifier if needed. Place a waterproof mat under the piano to catch any spills. Do not place drinks on the piano.
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (425) 407-5186Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for a piano to dry after water damage?
It can take several days to a few weeks, depending on the extent of the water. Do not rush it. Drying too quickly can cause wood to crack. Use a dehumidifier and let the piano air dry naturally. A professional can tell you when it is safe to tune or play.
Can I use a hairdryer to dry the piano keys?
No. A hairdryer blows hot, dry air that can warp the wood and crack the finish. It can also push water deeper into the action. Use a fan on a low setting at a distance, or just let the piano air dry. Patience is safer than speed.
Will my insurance cover the piano damage?
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see if musical instruments are included. Some policies cover water damage from sudden events, but not gradual leaks. Document the damage with photos and keep receipts for repairs. Ask your insurance company for details.