workshop set-up

[Dean May]

I haven't done this yet but have read an article on it and am convinced it
would be a good way to go for my uninsulated concrete floor. Lay down panels
of Styrofoam insulation board 1" thick. Then install a floating laminate
floor with the snap/glue together planks. The Styrofoam is moisture
resistant, but not a moisture barrier. This will keep moisture from getting
trapped under the floor system. 

 

Another consideration is lighting. I invested in several 8' double
fluorescent fixtures. They cost close to $100 each with the bulbs and they
buzz. I would not do this again. I would use the screw in compact
fluorescent bulbs. You can get them with 200 watt equivalent light output
for about $8/bulb. Add the cost of a plastic fixture, about $1.50, and
you've got less than $10 per fixture. They don't buzz and 2 of them put out
more light for less energy consumption and a whole lot less money. They also
sell a version of them in a dusk to dawn fixture with 400 watt equivalent
for about $50. I haven't played with any of those. 

 

I'm not saying I did it but I know a guy who also ran plastic water piping
for shop air. This is dangerous because pressure spikes in the system can
cause the plastic to explode sending dangerous shards. But he ran all of the
plastic inside the walls and ceiling for safety. Any exposed piping was
metal. Having compressed air outlets around the shop is really handy. This
guy normally keeps his air pressure around 50 (keeps the kids from blowing
up bike tires) and doesn't use any equipment with snap solenoid valves. 

 

Dean

Dean May             cell 812.239.3359 

PianoRebuilders.com   812.235.5272 

Terre Haute IN  47802

  _____  

From: pianotech-bounces at ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces at ptg.org] On Behalf
Of Fenton Murray
Sent: Saturday, January 05, 2008 12:22 AM
To: Pianotech List
Subject: Re: workshop set-up

 

This is my 2nd reply to this post.

As I mentioned twice before, dust collection should be a priority. Also, not
mentioned is consideration of a wooden floor. I have two 550sf buildings
both of which have slab floors. I laid a wooden floor in one a couple of
years ago, can't wait to do my other. A raised floor and a ceiling with
insulated attic will really help to maintain an even climate, all of this is
good for the pianos and the people working on them.

Fenton

----- Original Message ----- 

From: Carlos Ralon <mailto:ceralon at comcast.net>  

To: Pianotech List <mailto:pianotech at ptg.org>  

Sent: Wednesday, January 02, 2008 8:20 AM

Subject: Re: workshop set-up

 

After over 50 years of working in half the space that Isaac has, I have just
finished a 28x40' shop in a new gambrel roofed pole barn, insulated and
heated, with metal roof and sides.  My wife is assured that I'm nuts, but
now my son-in-law (an RPT) and I can restore in comfort without tripping
over tools and piano parts. We farm out SB's and refinishing, always
installing blocks and actions in nearly every piano.  We do have the
essential shop equipment for medium to heavy restoration.  I just spent most
of my kids inheirance.  Oh yes, I still tune about 200 pianos a year and oil
steam engines on Liberty Ships.

Carlos Ralon, RPT 

 

P.S.  On Dec. 24th we lost a great supporter of the piano business in the
Washington, DC area. Bill McCormack Jr, owner of Jordan Kitts Music Co
passed away.  The DC chapter met regulary at his main warehouse. He will be
missed.  CKR.

----- Original Message ----- 

From: Isaac <mailto:irs.pianos at earthlink.net>  Sadigursky 

To: 'Pianotech List' <mailto:pianotech at ptg.org>  

Sent: Tuesday, January 01, 2008 5:14 PM

Subject: workshop set-up

 

Happy New Year!

Speaking from experience of working for 3 different piano dealers in Los
Angeles in 1974-85 ,  I would  recommend to start any workshop with:

1]work bench or two or three

2]AIR compressor is a must  to clean dirty pianos and actions and then  in
my shop I got addicted to air- driven tools

3]at least a couple  of old file cabinets to keep parts
dust-free,moth-mouse-rats free and well organized..

4]Plan for the future and have some folding chairs to host local PTG
meetings.Dealerships and workshop are the BEST meeting places.Separate  area
to store Chairs,coffee pot,etc.would be nessesary,too.

I  would love to see Listers  adding their preferences in tools and
supplies.This is just a start..My 3-car garage is MY Territory plus an
outdoor area for tools and parts.

  Best wishes for New Year to everyone on the List.

 

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