Is a binding repair a dealbreaker?
 

I found a great deal on a Martin dread that had a repair done on the binding that was beginning to separate. This is a 2018 model. Is this a red flag or not a big deal. I am mostly interested in it as a stage guitar. The seller claims it was repaired by a Martin authorized service center under warranty.

thanks

No big deal.

Isn't it unusual for the binding to separate from the body on a 2018 guitar?

Well if the binding is missing or loose because of an impact then you might want to look at the inside of the guitar.

It could also be loose because some dummy left it in their car on a hot day.

Binding is there for a reason not just because when tastefully done it looks good too. But it doesn't usually just separate.

If it was a vintage guitar that would be different.

If it is an innocent separation of binding imho it would mean it was just not installed properly, which is possible. Otherwise it could be an indication that something else is going on there.

Stuff happens as they say but you should look into it.

Unfortunatley most martins tend to have their binding come loose, if the repair looks good then go for it, if the repair looks bad leave it alone

I have two Martins in my shop now having binding re attached

Steve