Understanding Repairs
The term 'servicing' is regularly mistaken for something else. Customers sometimes use the term to describe a regular repair - where a single problem is fixed to get the instrument playing properly - and at other times is used to mean an overhaul - where an instrument is completely renovated.
Typical Cost
Servicing
Servicing includes breaking down the instrument - literally taking it apart but excluding fixed or soldered joints and springs, pads and corks that are in good condition - then cleaning, lubricating and rebuilding the instrument, carefully getting all pads opening to the optimum gap and mechanisms working efficiently. Professional players have their instruments serviced regularly to ensure that they are always in the best playing condition.
£25 to £150
Overhaul
This is a much more serious undertaking. When an instrument is so badly out of order that running repairs and a good servicing are not enough, then an overhaul should be considered. This usually involves a complete strip down of the instrument - all pads, springs and corks replaced - all joints secured and repaired and new parts fitted if needed. This is an expensive option and is really only viable on either a well loved obsolete instrument or an expensive professional standard instrument.
£100 to £500
Running Repair
This is the commonest repair that is needed by the customer. The repairer analyses the problem and fixes it. Simple, straightforward and definitely the cheapest option
£10 to £100