Old strings don't just sound dull — they cause tuning instability and intonation problems. Here's how to know when it's time to change them.
How Often Should You Change Strings?
- Play 3–5 times a week — change strings every 1–3 months
- Play 1–2 times a week — change strings every 3–6 months
- Rarely play — change strings at least once a year
- Before a gig or recording — always put on fresh strings
These are guidelines, not strict rules. The real answer is: change them when they need it.
Signs Your Strings Need Changing
- Tuning instability — old strings lose their ability to hold pitch
- Dull, flat tone — new strings have brightness and sustain
- Discoloration or grime — strings should be silver or gold, not grey or brown
- Rough texture — wound strings should feel smooth underneath
- Intonation problems — old strings can throw intonation off even on a well-set-up guitar
If your guitar isn't staying in tune, strings are rarely the only cause. Usually there's a nut, saddle, or neck relief issue underneath it. New strings help, but if the guitar still isn't right after a change, that's a setup issue, not a string issue. See what a setup includes if you're not sure.
How to Make Strings Last Longer
- Wash your hands before playing — oils and sweat are the main cause of string corrosion
- Wipe down the strings after every session with a clean cloth — see How to Clean Your Guitar for the full routine
- Consider coated strings (Elixir is the most common) — they last significantly longer than uncoated strings
- Store your guitar in a case or on a wall mount away from heat and humidity — temperature swings accelerate corrosion. See How Humidity Affects Your Guitar for more on this.
What Gauge Should You Use?
For most players on standard tuning, 10s are a solid starting point. Drop down a half or full step and you want to go up in gauge — heavier strings hold tension better when detuned, push back against harder playing, and give you more stability. 9s are great for bending and expressive playing on standard tuning, but you trade off some dig and response when you play hard. There's no universal answer — hybrid sets exist for a reason.
We stock a range of gauges and hybrid sets at the shop in Glens Falls. If you're not sure what's right for how you play, bring it in — we'll tell you straight.
One thing worth knowing: changing gauge isn't always a drop-in swap. Going significantly heavier or lighter can affect neck relief, nut slot width, and intonation — which means the guitar may need a setup adjustment after the change. If you're switching gauges and the guitar starts feeling off, that's usually why.
Bring It In
We change strings at the bench regularly and can tell you what's right for your guitar and playing style.
Paul's Guitar Hideout is located at The Shirt Factory in Glens Falls, NY. Use the Cooper Street entrance and take the stairs up. If you need assistance, give us a call and we'll come down.
The Shirt Factory
71 Lawrence St., Suite 201B, 2nd Floor
Glens Falls, NY 12801
Wednesday–Sunday, 12–5pm
(518) 217-8695 · info@paulsguitarhideout.com