Pianos are big, no matter what type you get.
Even an upright piano takes some consideration as to where you are going to place it in your home. Before you make a purchase, be sure to measure out a space with a few factors in mind.
First:
Avoid direct sunlight. This doesn’t necessarily mean that a piano can’t go near a window, but be aware that ANY finish of piano will be affected by years of direct sunlight. This is particularly true for pianos with a wood finish (i.e. not black gloss). The finish will fade over time. Direct sunlight also dries out and warps the wood.
Second:
The piano should be in a temperature controlled space and maintain an even temp and humidity level throughout the year. If the piano is going on the main level of your home and there is heat and air conditioning, it is likely fine. If you’re like me, you open your windows in the Spring and Fall. This is fine because it’s the time of year when the outside temperature is moderate and not overly humid or dry. Winter and Summer are a whole different ballgame. Extreme cold and heat are a piano’s worst enemy. When placing the piano, consider putting it on an interior wall, if possible. Any wall that leads to an outside area i.e. back porch, garage door etc, will be draftier and therefore have more fluctuations in temperature and humidity levels. This will negatively impact the inner workings of your piano and the pitch of your piano.
Third:
Consider who is hanging out in the room where the piano is located. Pianos are not coffee tables, nor are they toys. Beverages, plants, and food should not be on a piano. If the piano is in a room where you’re inclined to have guests and the piano becomes another “table” to set liquids on, perhaps put the piano in a less popular room. If it’s unavoidable or you want the piano in that space for musical entertaining, that’s totally fine, but make sure your guests know that the piano is not where they should set that glass of wine. Also, avoid the kid’s play area, if possible. I have kids. They are messy. They are clumsy. Pianos are large, yet very delicate. We can draw an inevitable conclusion to that scenario.
