The ESP Guitar Company

Possible Causes of the White Spots on Your ESP LTD BW-1 Fretboard

Based on your description and the attached pictures, there are several possible causes for the white spots on your ESP LTD BW-1 fretboard:

1. Unfinished Ebony:

• Ebony is naturally porous and can absorb substances like sweat and oils over time. When this happens, the wood grain can appear lighter, resulting in white patches.


• B-stock guitars might have undergone less rigorous quality control, potentially leading to Connections NYT incomplete finishing on the fretboard.

2. Filler or Glue Residue:

• During manufacturing, some fretboards are filled with a compound to smooth out irregularities in the wood grain. If the filling process wasn't properly cleaned, residue might appear as white spots.


• Glue residue from fret installation could also be a cause, particularly if the frets were replaced at some point.

3. Oxidation:

• Ebony naturally oxidizes and darkens over time. However, this process can be uneven, resulting in lighter areas, particularly on the wood grain.


• B-stock guitars might be older than new stock, potentially leading to more pronounced oxidation.

4. Cleaning Product Residue:

• If the guitar was cleaned with inappropriate products, it could leave behind residue that appears as white spots.


• B-stock guitars might have been cleaned in haste before being returned, leading to improper cleaning practices.

5. Fret Wear:

• The white glow on some frets might be caused by normal wear and tear.


• B-stock guitars might have been played more than new ones, leading to more noticeable fret wear.

Recommendations for Cleaning the Fretboard

Before attempting any cleaning, it's crucial to identify the specific cause of the white spots. This will help you determine the most suitable cleaning method. Here are some general recommendations:

If the cause is unfinished ebony or oxidation:

• Use a high-quality lemon oil to clean and condition the fretboard.


• Apply the oil with a soft cloth and massage it gently into the wood grain.


• Let the oil sit for 15-20 minutes before wiping off any excess with a clean cloth.

If the cause is filler or glue residue:

• Consult a professional luthier for proper cleaning and removal of the residue.


• Do not attempt to remove the residue yourself as you might damage the fretboard.

If the cause is cleaning product residue:

• Use a mild, fretboard-specific cleaner to remove the residue.


• Follow the instructions on the cleaning product carefully.


• Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive substances as they can damage the fretboard.

If the cause is fret wear:

• Polishing the frets can remove the white glow and restore their shine.


• Use a fret polishing compound and a microfiber cloth to polish the frets carefully.


• Avoid over-polishing, as it can wear down the frets prematurely.

Additional Tips:

• Always test any cleaning product on a small, inconspicuous area of the fretboard before applying it to the entire surface.


• Avoid using water or any liquids directly on the fretboard.


• Be gentle when cleaning the fretboard to avoid damaging the wood or the frets.


• If you're unsure about any cleaning methods, consult a professional luthier for assistance.

Conclusion

It's important to note that B-stock guitars might have pre-existing flaws or imperfections, which could explain the white spots on your fretboard. However, with proper cleaning and care, you can restore the fretboard's appearance and ensure its longevity. If you're hesitant about tackling the cleaning yourself, seeking help from a qualified luthier is always a safe and effective option.