A pickguard does more than look good. It protects the finish from your pick and, on many electric guitars, holds the pickups and controls. When it cracks, warps, or peels, it’s time to replace it. TuneUp Guitar in Redding swaps pickguards on electric guitars, basses, and acoustics.
When to replace a pickguard
- The pickguard is cracked or broken
- Edges are curling, warping, or lifting
- An acoustic pickguard is peeling off the top
- Screw holes are stripped or cracked
- You want a new color or style
Electric guitars and basses
On Strat style guitars and many basses, the pickups and controls are mounted to the pickguard. Swapping the guard means moving everything over. We transfer the electronics, check the wiring, and make sure everything works before closing it up. If you want new pickups too, it’s the perfect time. See pickup installation and adjustment.
Aftermarket pickguards don’t always line up perfectly. We fit them so the holes line up, the pickups and controls sit right, and the guard lies flat.
Acoustic guitars
Old acoustic pickguards can shrink and peel over time, sometimes pulling on the finish. We remove the old guard carefully, clean off old adhesive, and install a new one. If the finish under the old guard needs a little attention, see finish touch-up.
While it’s apart
With the pickguard off, it’s easy to clean up crackly pots or a worn switch. See pots, switches, and jack repair.
Bring it in
Bring your guitar to our shop on Redcliff Drive in Redding. Most pickguard swaps are done in a day or two. Bring your own pickguard or we can help you find one that fits.
Guitar Pickguard Replacement questions
Can you change my pickguard and pickups at the same time?
Yes, and it saves labor. On many guitars the pickups and controls mount to the pickguard, so it's all apart anyway.
The replacement pickguard doesn't line up with my screw holes. Can you fix that?
Yes. We can trim the guard or adjust screw holes so it fits right and looks clean.
Can you replace a peeling acoustic pickguard?
Yes. We remove the old guard, clean up the adhesive, and install a new one.