Crack in top of Epiphone Paul McCartney Replica

[naccoachbob]

A guy in the Learn & Master Guitar forum opened a topic about his guitar having a crack in the top about one inch to the bass side of the center. It extends almost to the bridge. He thought the guitar might be a bit dry, so he's used an "in case" humidifier like a Dampit or something. That caused the wood to move enough to close up the crack.
I still think he needs to have it repaired, but funds are tight right now.
Question 1, about how much would that type of repair cost? I know it depends on where he is, but maybe a ball park figure?
Question 2, if he keeps it humidified can he play it safely at home - which is where he mostly or totally plays?
Question 3, what are the chances that one of the braces is loosened?
I'm thinking the bridge plate might have stopped the crack from spreading further, but don't know.
Here's a link to his thread and some pictures of the crack:

http://community.learnandmaster.com/ind ... ntry274695

Thanks,
Bob

[B. Howard]

For a simple crack repair i usually charge $10-$15 per inch. The other questions would be best answered after an examination on the bench. Also is he keeping the crack closed by over humidification, that can cause other problems.