Replacing heads?

[sirslurpee]

How often do you guys all replace your heads? I haven't changed my heads (other than snare, cuz I broke it twice) and kick (broke that too) in like 5 years... I'm about to buy some new heads though and I wanted to see how long I should expect them to last (when treated right)

 

[drummercat]

I repalce them when they sound dull.

for 5 years of usage, you should replace them now, and I think you will hear some difference!

How often do you guys all replace your heads? I haven't changed my heads (other than snare, cuz I broke it twice) and kick (broke that too) in like 5 years... I'm about to buy some new heads though and I wanted to see how long I should expect them to last (when treated right)

 

[tourettes5139]

Depends on how much you play; I usually end up changing mine about once a year. But maybe thats just because I buy cheap drum heads.

 

[trenttati]

If the cost wasn't prohibitive, I would change my heads at least twice a year, given the drums are played fairly loudly 10-14 hours a week. As drummercat said, replace them when they sound dull (and I'll add: or don't tune well, or don't provide the surface required for more detailed playing styles).

In reality, I change my batter heads about once a year.

 

[David-H]

If you are going to record, change your batter heads & if your resonant heads haven't been changed in a year change them also. The Mylar dries out after time & your drums won't sound as good. If you play alot I & play hard I would change snare batter heads every 3 months. Drums are MUCH easier to tune with fresh heads!
Dave H