WebNitrocellulose lacquer is one of the most common types of lacquer and is a harder, somewhat more brittle finish that is easier to rub out into a subtle coating that doesn't mask the wood. It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. It's applied via a sprayer, because it is thinner than the other finishes. Variants in use include satin nitrocellulose lacquer (Highway One models, Jim Root Stratocaster), which is a flatter finish, and thin-skin nitrocellulose lacquer (Vintage Hot Rod models), which has a thinner sanding sealer or lacquer undercoat. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. Ironically, what makes polyurethane frustrating to use is the same thing that makes it more versatile. Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, you can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer. We advise reading the labels [1] and instructions thoroughly to avoid miscalculating the proportions. Lacquer is a thin and quick-drying finish that penetrates into the wood but it can also chip and crack easily. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. Low-VOC poly finishes are considered safer to use and dont pose as much of a threat to the environment. It says your style is flamboyant or that its laid-back. Although the latter requires fewer coats because of its thickness, its hard to deny that itll take longer than the other option. It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. He has since built an enviable workshop for himself and an equally impressive online accomplishment: an extensive resource site serving old timers and novices alike. Polyurethane does not have that problem. Hey, I'm Heather. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. Sawinery is a one-stop source for anything woodworking-related. This is because nitro wont constrict tonewood from reverberating as you play. All of these make applying polyurethane, as a beginner, a bit challenging to use. But because of this, some therefore believe that poly-finished guitars sound somewhat neutered and less acoustically resonant, with reduced sustain. After the head-to-head polyurethane vs. lacquer comparison, its clear that these finishes work best in different projects and environments. And, it is more durable than either polyester or nitro lacquer. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you. And, more importantly, polyurethane finishes (either oil based or water based ones) are not as toxic as nitrocellulose lacquers solvent-based solution. Web122K subscribers In this video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing. Curing can take up to a month to complete, during which time, nitro lacquer will continue to release dangerous VOCs into the air. Is Chipboard A Safe Alternative To Wood For A Rabbits Hutch? Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. Once nitrocellulose lacquer is applied over a wooden surface, itll form a protective layer to resist damage. A nitrocellulose lacquer also wears away over time, causing dulling in areas where you make regular contact with your guitar; such as the lower bout where your forearm rests. Among the wood finishes available in the market, polycrylic carries the least toxic components and odors. Both of these products will yellow, though polyurethane yellows much quicker. As nitrocellulose is easy to damage and manipulate, most relicd guitars youll come across will have this finish. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. Prosoundhq.com is also a member of other affiliate programmes. Suffice it to say that, technically, guitar finishes are no simple matter, but heres a general primer on modern Fender guitar finishes. Due to its thickness, it also requires fewer coats to achieve full coverage. Lacquer is a better choice for table tops than polyurethane. Traditionalists find the former more appealing, as nitrocellulose was used almost exclusively on vintage instruments from the golden era of guitar production. Polyurethane is available in water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based. And on andq on . You can use brushes to apply lacquer and polyurethane. (How about painting over a lacquer finish? As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. HGTV While its true that polyurethane durability levels are impressive, it doesnt mean you can grab any product on the shelf. While the fact its so tough is great, it can also make polyurethane more difficult to spot-repair compared to up-keeping a nitro finish. Is Chipboard Safe Enough To Use For A Hamsters Home? Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. You can even apply it through spraying, so its the more convenient alternative. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. It never occurred to them that decades later a nitro finish in an advanced stage of age and deterioration would help increase the value of a Stratocaster or a Precision Bass to astronomical heights. It can be wiped-on (or brushed on a little more thickly). A guitars look is a major part of the statement that guitarists make to the world about themselves. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. A, New DIYers often question cedars durability, mainly because its one of the softer woods in todays market. Take a step back and assess which option will get the job done better. Despite being a very thin finish, it dries hard and is very durable. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. These added benefits of acrylic lacquer come with the downside of being more expensive than nitrocellulose lacquer. Related Post: Dont Put Nitro Lacquer Over That Polyurethane Finish [Heres Why]. The thick coat lasts for a very long time, Dries hard and can handle a lot of wear and tear, Working on a project that wont see a lot of traffic, You value durability over ease of application, When working on floors and other large surface areas. Some of these finishes also include attributes of oil-based and water-based polyurethanes. Lacquer is thin and dries quickly but is not as durable as polyurethane and isnt recommended for highly trafficked areas. There are four main types of lacquer, which we will discuss in detail further down. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. Whats the difference between lacquer and polyurethane? This means that dings and scratches are more visible on guitars with nitro finishes, and much easier to inflict. It is absorbed into the surface of the wood, forming a stronger bond that is more difficult to disrupt. Its also quite durable and easy to clean. Learn more here. Lacquer is a classic choice for furniture and cabinets, and it has a beautiful, glossy sheen. If youre not keen on mixing it, you can buy a ready-to-use pre-catalyzed lacquer. Polyester and polyurethane guitar finishes are also more resistant to general wear, meaning that scratches and dings are harder to see and inflict. Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. Web122K subscribers In this video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing. His goal is to help you become a successful woodworker, whether as a hobbyist or as a professional. A nitrocellulose guitar finish is applied multiple times over several days, with each coat essentially melting the previous one. WebPolyurethane guitar finishes are more durable and less susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes. Water-based polyurethane is a type of polyurethane paint that uses water as the main carrier. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. Even better, its heat resistant, so it doesnt burn or blister. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. When finishing cabinets, the product youll need depends on the materials paint quality. They are also more durable and scratch-resistant, thus boosting their advantages versus polyurethane. Lacquer vs polyurethane. I think that lacquer would work from what I have read but would love your thoughts. While acrylic lacquer solved the yellowing issue, water-based lacquer tackles the toxicity problem. In this video, we discuss the eternal Great Debate: Nitrocellulose Lacquer finish on guitars, vs. polyurethane. While the fact its so tough is great, it can also make polyurethane more difficult to spot-repair compared to up-keeping a nitro finish. But after working for days or weeks on a project, it can be heart-breaking to watch it wilt away in a matter of weeks. Slinky Nickel Wound String Sizes You must also sand down the material to make it smooth and even. Polyurethane, however, is often applied as a top coat. In the industry, this is referred to asrelicing; a practice that has become more common from the growing demand for older-looking guitars. As a result, it is gradually being phased out of the market in favor of more efficient options. Its less brittle than typical acrylic lacquers, so its not surprising that its wear and scratch-resistant. What is the difference between polyurethane and lacquer? Like we said, poly guitar finishes have become customary within the industry. Although nitrocellulose lacquer may give a guitar an airier sound, its softer texture does make it susceptible to cosmetic damage. Itll give you smooth texture and even layers, but it doesnt yield the best results for wide applications like wood floors. Is Nitro Lacquer Stronger Than Polyurethane? It is advisable? Get a cotton bud and dip it in Acetone. Above, an American Special Stratocaster with a gloss urethane finish (a type of polyurethane finish). Because of this, you can count on lacquer finishes to make workpieces last a long time. It can be, but it doesnt have to be. Ive heard that polyurethane and lacquer sprays can be applied to paper in order to give it a protective coat. Interested in finding out more about music gear and expanding your knowledge? It possesses all of the unsavory characteristics above: it is not heat resistant, is highly flammable, yellows, and is highly toxic. You must consider the most durable option if you apply finishes on high-traffic surfaces like wooden floors. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. PROS Transparent when it dries, making it perfect for indoor usage Spray application creates smooth results Fast-drying in only 10 minutes Resistant to liquids Apart from the above, small cracks can appear in a nitro finish after several years too. I have seen sites that recommend lacquer spray, polyurethane spray, and modge Podge. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. Finally, lacquer dries faster than polyurethane, so its less likely to cause bubbles or streaks in the finish. Polyurethane coat needs sanding for multiple coats. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Besides its glossy finish, the best attribute acrylic lacquer can offer better than others is its resistance to yellowing. Water-based lacquer is another step in the evolution process. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. As these departments mostly produce premium time-honoured instruments, they therefore use nitro finishes to recapture the essence of their older vintage models. Repeat this process until you get the desired result. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. They care about how it affects an instruments tone, feel, look and value over time. Related Read: How Many Coats of Polyurethane Do You Need to Apply? Learn how to put polyurethane over lacquer. Lacquer vs polyurethane. Friendly Community. PROS Transparent when it dries, making it perfect for indoor usage Spray application creates smooth results Fast-drying in only 10 minutes Resistant to liquids In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. These days, this type of guitar finish is used almost exclusively by Gibson and Fenders Custom Shop divisions. When it comes to outdoor polyurethane, you can also add UV-resistant to that list. Although nitro finishes are more synonymous with premium instruments, it doesnt mean that poly finishes scream cheap. Fender also experimented with acrylic during this period, but nitrocellulose was generally favoured for finishing guitars as it could form a nicer gloss. For example, oil-based polyurethane gives a warm glow to wood, and it yellows over time. Far removed from its eco-friendly beginnings, modern lacquers are made by dissolving synthetic polymers in lacquer thinner. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. Besides the invisible threat, there is the issue of flammability. Home Wood Maintenance Polyurethane Lacquer vs Polyurethane Finish Which is Better for You? Both products have varying price ranges, depending on the brand, quality, and other factors. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. Nitro is incredibly toxic, and in its aerosol spray form, it is a severe respiratory hazard. What Is The Difference Between Nitro Lacquer and Acrylic Lacquer? It protects the wood underneath while providing an even surface for nitro lacquer to bond to. Ive written a complete buyers guide for electric guitars which takes you through all the things you need to consider and a step-by-step method to narrowing down your selection and choosing the best option. And they are so wafer thin you can feel the wood underneath. Be the first to know about new products, featured content, exclusive offers and giveaways. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. It helps give color and life to its look, feel and sound, and it provides protection from all manner of external influences. Before proceeding with the application, ensure that you wear the right protective gear to stay safe from harmful fumes. How Hard is this Wood. Problem 4: Scratch-Resistance. And because some cabinet types are covered with high-sheen paints, applying wood finishes isnt necessary. On more affordable guitars its likely youll find a polyester finish, for example of most Mexican Fender guitars. After that, apply the polyurethane in long and big motions. You must consider these perks and drawbacks to determine if its worth your money. So, in this post, we are going to cover exactly what nitrocellulose lacquer is (and whether or not it is worth the risk). Lacquer is thinner and will form a glossy finish that is not waterproof. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. Manage Settings Polyurethane, while liquid, is still plastic. Another factor to consider is the size of the project. Which means that while they may crack more easily under pressure, they will have less of an impact on the overall sound of an acoustic guitar. First, the chances of polyurethane adhering to a lacquer finish are very low. Read: What is the Difference Between Spar urethane and Polyurethane. Read next!). Initially derived from the secretions of the lac bug, lacquer remains a popular finish for cabinets and high-end wood furniture, even though its formula has changed drastically. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. Polyurethane is a thicker liquid that can offer resistance to scratches and heavy rains. Poly finishes can remain shiny even after decades of use, and dont fade away in the areas that youd typically make contact with. Lacquer is made by combining different solvents and resins. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. The best way to apply lacquer is with a high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) sprayer. One significant advantage of poly finishes is their durability. And as we explained, nitrocellulose lacquer is thin and slightly porous, meaning that the wood its applied to is more prone to this issue. Polyurethane finishes are products made of plastic components in liquid forms. Lacquer is water-resistant, durable, and provides decent protection from scratches. Before adding the next coat, smoothen the area with 320-grit sandpaper and wipe it clean again. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'thewoodworkplace_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_7',151,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0');Nitro coats are much thinner than polyurethane finishes. Lacquer and polyurethane emit high quantities of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them unsafe for people with breathing difficulties. A high build lacquer spray or polyurethane spray like rust oleum? It forms a hard, glossy finish that is durable and easy to clean. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. As mentioned earlier, lacquer is very common for high-end furniture or any wooden surface that wont see much action. Nitrocellulose is considered to be more porous than polyester or polyurethane, with a thin, smooth and somewhat slippery texture that isnt quite as solid or constrictive. [Best Practice. On the other hand, water-based poly dries very clear and remains clear. Urethane is far more durable, scratch resistant and easy to work with. Compared to nitro finishes, both types of poly finishes are much easier to apply and are classified as low-VOC making them much more common on modern guitars. It can be used on a wide range of wood furniture but mainly on floors, tables, fences, and other surfaces that need protection from water and scratches. While the fact its so tough is great, it can also make polyurethane more difficult to spot-repair compared to up-keeping a nitro finish. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. If youre not satisfied, you can remove the lacquer from wood again and repeat the steps. As you may already know, these resin residues are harvested from lacquer tree saps. Wood is a substance that moves and changes with climate, treatment and age, as do the finish coatings that are applied to it. What works well with it ? While it is hard to draw a firm line between the two, there are instances in which one will outperform the other. That's because the type of finish that is applied to a guitar's body and neck can actually affect how the instrument sounds and feels. Here is a detailed polyurethane vs. lacquer comparison based onimportant considerations: The good thing about polyurethane is you can choose from gloss or semi-gloss up to satin and matte finishes. It is usually only on cheaper guitars where youll notice the difference in feel between the finishes and this is typically a result of the overall manufacturing quality compared to the finish type being used. Its long-lasting but takes more time to dry. 2. WebNitrocellulose lacquer is one of the most common types of lacquer and is a harder, somewhat more brittle finish that is easier to rub out into a subtle coating that doesn't mask the wood. The drying time for this finish may vary, but it forms a durable coat once dried. In this article Ill be comparing nitrocellulose, polyurethane and polyester finishes and discussing the pros and cons of each type. Hi , I am working on a chalk painted coffee table . Both finishes contain toxic Read morehere. Sources. Because of this, we dont recommend them for outdoor furniture pieces. Nitro lacquers are also typically used on more expensive guitars as the application process is time-consuming and requires several layers. Explaining their advantages and disadvantages, as well as the effect that they have on the sound of a guitar; we hope that by the end of this article youll have a greater understanding of their differences. Lacquer also seals and protects the wood from moisture and other environmental factors that could damage the surface or cause it to warp. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. You Might Want to Read: Stains vs Varnishes. However, if there is no physical or chemical damage, lacquer can last as long as or even longer than polyurethane. There are many subjects that split opinion among guitarists. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'thewoodworkplace_com-mobile-leaderboard-2','ezslot_13',154,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-mobile-leaderboard-2-0');Polyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. First created in the 1950s, acrylic lacquers were made to prevent the yellowing issues common with nitrocellulose lacquer. But there are many guitarists that prefer poly finishes, as they are more resistant to wear and have a glossier look. It causes a number of health problems from dizziness and nausea, to absolute blackout unconsciousness. Its also more environmentally friendly because water-based polyurethane doesnt leave a yellow tint upon drying and carries no odor. This makes it easier to damage but also easier to repair. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. Given their similarities in look and feel, many people erroneously refer to them as the same thing. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thewoodworkplace_com-leader-2','ezslot_8',152,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-leader-2-0');By dabbing it with Acetone. Thanks to this, it takes less time and cost less money. No, lacquer and polyurethane are not the same. The conception that poly finishes sound bad because they arent as porous comes from their initial release where they were typically applied too thickly. Deciding what gets the upper hand in lacquer vs poly is even more complicated. This lacquer also dries faster on the wood surface. Sonically, you get tones that are more purely those of the pickups rather than other elements of the instruments construction, which many players prefer. Polyurethane guitar finishes are more durable and less susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes. Unfortunately, neither polyurethane nor lacquer stands the test of time. Depending on the combination, one type of lacquer could be drastically different. Check out our Guitar Cleaning Guide here. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Don't Put Nitro Lacquer Over That Polyurethane Finish, Dont Put Nitro Lacquer Over That Polyurethane Finish [Heres Why], When Should You Use Tru-oil Vs Wipe-On Poly? Today, our woodworking experts will conduct hands-on tests on lacquer vs. polyurethane wood finishes to determine which suits your project best. They must also be carefully hand-buffed and sanded at the final stage to ensure a consistent, professional quality. However, its thin coats that provide quick-drying attributes make it suitable for a wide range of woodworking projects like wooden floors. Also Read: Can You Roll Polyurethane On Wood? Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. Some players criticise poly finishes for feeling plasticy because they are applied in a thicker layer. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. While this can add a nice pop of color to oak and many other types of wood, not everybody is a fan, which is understandable. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. The good thing about the VOCs in these products is that they are no longer dangerous when they dry. Polyester is often used as a base coat sealer for a nitro lacquer top coat. Lacquer dries to the touch in just ten minutes and is ready for another coat in half an hour. Given that water-based lacquers are not as common, and some argue they shouldnt be referred to as lacquer, it is tempting to give polyurethane the edge. If you want a more flexible product, you can try the more durable option under this category: the CAB-acrylic lacquer. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. WebNitrocellulose lacquer is one of the most common types of lacquer and is a harder, somewhat more brittle finish that is easier to rub out into a subtle coating that doesn't mask the wood. If youre keen on solvent-based coats, add acrylic lacquer thinner to enhance their water resistance. Both types of polyurethane can be used to protect wooden surfaces for over a decade when applied and maintained correctly. Currently, Gibson still use nitrocellulose gloss and satin finishes for both the necks and bodies on most of their guitars, whilst Fender typically only use them on custom shop models. Web798 subscribers. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. Thanks to this, its an easier product to apply than polyurethanes. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. (cabdirect.org), Comparison of six ester components in nitrocellulose lacquer thinner from the aspects of dissolution rates, explosion characteristics and environmental influence ScienceDirect, The use of this site constitutes acceptance of our. This means that most mass-produced guitars youll come across will feature polyester or polyurethane finishes. It gives the furniture a glossy and smooth finish, making it look more expensive and luxurious. Lacquer is its own solvent, so each thin coat melts into the previous one, thus eliminating the need for sanding unless there is a problem with an underlying coat.
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