What is fret sprout?

Fret sprout is:

When the metal ends of a guitar’s frets protrude beyond the edge of the fret-board, creating a sharp, rough, or uneven surface it usually fret sprout. This happens because the wooden fret-board shrinks due to very low humidity, while the metal frets do not. Fret sprout can be uncomfortable or even painful for the player and can negatively affect play-ability.

What causes sprout?

The primary cause of fret sprout is fluctuations in humidity. The main cause being the wood dries out too much from very low moisture content. If the neck is re-hydrated it’s possible to eliminate some of the sprout, however not likely to cure it. Sometimes the guitar companies take short cuts in the drying process to try and get product out for sale too quickly. This sets up the problem, then the low humidity will make it evident. The other cause is when frets are installed they are not clipped to the proper length and protrude from the side and not dressed.

Low humidity: When the air becomes dry, the wood in the guitar’s neck and fret-board shrinks. This is especially common during winter when indoor heating dries out the air. As the fret-board contracts, the metal frets, which are unaffected by the change, are left sticking out.
Climate change: Shipping a guitar from a high-humidity climate to a dry one can also trigger it.
Poor craftsmanship: On some budget instruments, improper fret installation, lack of care or a lack of proper fret end dressing can lead to sharp, protruding frets from the beginning.

How to detect and fix fret sprout

You can check for sprout by gently running your hand along the edge of the guitar’s neck. If you feel any sharpness or the ends of the frets catch on your fingers, you have fret sprout.

The standard fix involves filing down the protruding fret ends and then rounding and polishing them to restore a smooth feel. While a very skilled guitarist and hobbyists could possibly perform this work themselves with specialized tools, it’s not recommended. Best to have a professional Luthier or guitar technician do it to avoid damaging the fret-board.

Fix Fret Sprout

Fret sprout is fixed by filing down the protruding fret ends and then polishing them to restore a smooth neck surface. This repair is caused by wood shrinkage due to dry conditions and can often be done with the right tools. Haywire Custom Guitars can fix fret sprout. A quick light touch with a fret end dressing file removes any sharp edges, leaving smooth and rounded fret ends that won’t slice your fingers. Instead of feeling like a cross-cut saw the neck will be smooth and playable again.

How to prevent fret sprout

Control humidity: The most effective way to prevent fret sprout is to store your guitar in a stable, humidity-controlled environment, ideally between 40% and 50% relative humidity.
Use a humidifier: In dry climates, use a room humidifier or a case humidifier to maintain a consistent moisture level for your instrument.
Use a proper case: Storing your guitar in its case when not in use can protect it from sudden changes in environmental conditions.This is possibly the best way to avoid humidity related problems.
Condition the fret-board: For unfinished fret-boards like rosewood or ebony, regularly apply a fret-board oil to keep the wood from drying out enough to absorb moisture.

About the Author: Rick Mariner

Mr. Rick Mariner Owner and Founder and CEO of Haywire Custom Guitars Inc. He is a member of The Association of Stringed Instrument Artisans (A.S.I.A.) as well as a guitar player. Rick holds a bachelors degree from University of Md. and a Masters degree from George Washington University. Rick developed his exclusive 8 – Point “Gig- Ready” guitar process that allows for Custom Guitars that are “GIG-READY”. With Rick’s many years of development and guitar set-up experience, Haywire Guitar shop “Builds satisfied players… one Haywire guitar at a time”.