Recently, a number of our customers have asked us why we replace the pedal box felt as a standard part of our reconditioning process on all of our pianos before we offer them for sale. This inquiry reflects a growing awareness among piano enthusiasts regarding the intricate details that contribute to the overall performance and longevity of these cherished instruments. The pedal box felt, while often overlooked, plays a crucial role in the functionality of the pedals.

The felt in the pedal boxes serves to absorb the impact and vibrations that occur when a musician engages the pedals while playing, acting as a barrier that mitigates the direct contact between the hard surfaces of the pedals and the wooden structure of the instrument.

Over time, this felt can become worn and compressed as a result of age, or may even be damaged by contaminants, pests, or environmental conditions. Hardened and worn felt is less effective at cushioning the operation of the pedals, which can lead to the introduction of audible noise that can be quite disruptive. This distracting noise not only diverts the attention of the musician, potentially causing them to lose focus on their performance, but can also interfere with the listening experience of the audience.

We first remove all existing felt (which is often original) and clean off any remnants of adhesive. We then apply decorative felt within the perimeter of the pedal box and install a quad-layer of soft felt gauze for the pedals to rest against when either released or depressed.

In pianos with a celeste pedal, we also line the pedal box with leather, which is better able to resist the friction exerted on it by the operation of the third pedal over many years than felt alone.

By replacing this felt, we ensure that the pedals operate as quietly as possible, allowing for a more refined playing experience. Replacing the pedal box felt is only one part of our broader reconditioning process and dedication to quality and excellence in our preparation process, ensuring that every piano we sell meets the high standards that our customers expect and deserve. This meticulous attention to detail not only improves the functionality of the instrument but also contributes to its aesthetic appeal, as fresh felt often greatly enhances the visual presentation of the pedal area.