Just a question about when to get frets redressed or get a guitar refretted.

Was doing maintenance on my guitar and noted visible wear on some of the fret wires. Not having any problems playing (no dead spots or anything) but wondering if I should be proactive and do something about it. Any help appreciated.

Thx,
Dave

Its a California Telecaster made in 1997.

Thx, I will probably take it to a local shop in San Diego that has been recommended by friends and have the frets dressed.

If you are not having any problems even though you see some wear and tear you are still okay. I usually wait for a dead spot to appear but it is no big deal ,and your guitar will feel faster after a dressing.

I was mostly wondering if it pays off to be proactive. Wasn't sure if when they start to wear that it might pay off to dress the frets to avoid a refret job in the future.

Look sideways at the fret with the deepest string indentation. If underneath the indentation, there is still significant 'meat' left to the fret, then a grind and polish is the way to go. If the indentation is about to hit the fretboard wood sooner than later, well then it's time for at the very least, that particular fret to be replaced. An honest, experienced tech can give you an true evaluation. You could always post pictures here too and we could better advise you.

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