As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. Did you know that catalyzed lacquers are made with nitrocellulose and urea resins? WebLacquer provides the extremely intense gloss finish often used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings. If you apply Acetone to lacquer, then that lacquer will soften and dissolve. It causes a number of health problems from dizziness and nausea, to absolute blackout unconsciousness. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. Can You Put Tru Oil Over Nitro Lacquer? Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. Nitro finishes are much thinner and less restrictive than polyurethane coats. Fender also experimented with acrylic during this period, but nitrocellulose was generally favoured for finishing guitars as it could form a nicer gloss. Because of this tedious drying time, many woodworkers prefer water-based polyurethane alternatives. Many purists and luthiers therefore believe that a nitro finish allows a guitars wood to breathe, yielding a more open sound and greater sustain. Lacquer vs polyurethane. It is absorbed into the surface of the wood, forming a stronger bond that is more difficult to disrupt. And as we explained, nitrocellulose lacquer is thin and slightly porous, meaning that the wood its applied to is more prone to this issue. It helps give color and life to its look, feel and sound, and it provides protection from all manner of external influences. Related Read: How Many Coats of Polyurethane Do You Need to Apply? Maybe Im an old-timer, but I love wooden projects. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. Web122K subscribers In this video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. This requirement eventually adds up to its cost, instead of the cheaper option of brushing lacquer on wood surfaces. There are two types of poly finishes: polyurethane and polyester. One significant advantage of poly finishes is their durability. Since the latter has a thicker consistency, applying this product with tools like spray cans can be hard. Is Hemlock a Hardwood? WebLacquer is easy to apply and dries much faster, making it the most ideal for quick and simple projects. Since lacquer has an extremely glossy finish, itll show scratches on high-traffic areas, like floors. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'thewoodworkplace_com-narrow-sky-1','ezslot_15',166,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-narrow-sky-1-0');But, polyurethane lasts longer, and it does a much better job at protecting your instrument. 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. After that, apply the polyurethane in long and big motions. Polyurethane is a thicker liquid that can offer resistance to scratches and heavy rains. Theres a big debate in the guitar world over nitro and poly finishes and which are the best. A highly versatile plastic, it was introduced into U.S. commercial manufacturing in the 1950s. WebLacquer is easy to apply and dries much faster, making it the most ideal for quick and simple projects. The fact that it is simpler and faster to apply than nitrocellulose keeps costs down, while of course, offering a shinier look and greater durability. 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. The difference in the two are night and day. 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 Given their similarities in look and feel, many people erroneously refer to them as the same thing. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. Polyurethane coat needs sanding for multiple coats. It says youre cool, or that youre hot. Let the first coating dry according to instructions before sanding it lightly to enhance adherence to the next application. With just two coats of lacquer, your cabinets will be fully protected. No, lacquer and polyurethane are not the same. However, its thin coats that provide quick-drying attributes make it suitable for a wide range of woodworking projects like wooden floors. 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. It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. Polyurethane offers excellent protection against scratches and wears and is best used on floors as they get lots of traffic. After all, its better to have an excellent finish with an inferior product than a terrible one with a better product. Privacy Policy. A high build lacquer spray or polyurethane spray like rust oleum? One of the biggest advantages polyurethane has over nitro, is its durability. The good news is you can always opt for the water-based options on both types. On the off chance that youre not convinced either of these finishes is suitable for you, read our guide on different wood finishes, including varnish, shellac, tung oil, and many more. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. And it definitely bears remembering that these finishes are applied to products fashioned from once-living organic plant matter; namely, wood. Some lacquers are oil-based while others are water-based. This occurs when a guitar is regularly exposed to differing temperatures, as changes in climate causes wood to expand and contract. It is advisable? Besides that, all lacquers offer little protection from heat and chemicals. HGTV The good thing is both options have less toxic variations like water-based lacquer and polycrylic. What Are VOCs? Finally, lacquer dries faster than polyurethane, so its less likely to cause bubbles or streaks in the finish. It all depends on the ingredients used in the lacquer. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Polyurethane finishes are softer and thinner which to some players feels nicer, but they are also softer than polyester finishes which are less susceptible to dings and scratches. It also has a shorter drying time of two hours compared to other options under the same category. [Best Practice. Nitro Lacquer is solvent-based, while Acrylic Lacquer is water-based. They look glossy, not plastic like polyurethane. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. Lacquer is made by combining different solvents and resins. Sources. Practice caution when applying multiple coats with oil-based polyurethanes, as an incorrect application may cause the surface not to process the finish well. Sources. Ensure that the wood-grain filler is layered properly and the surface is free of residues. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. In the industry, this is referred to asrelicing; a practice that has become more common from the growing demand for older-looking guitars. Polyurethane finishes are seen on more premium guitars and are used on most American Fender models today. Web798 subscribers. You can use brushes to apply lacquer and polyurethane. Another factor to consider is the size of the project. 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. Polyurethane coat needs sanding for multiple coats. Related Post: When Should You Use Tru-oil Vs Wipe-On Poly? They must also be carefully hand-buffed and sanded at the final stage to ensure a consistent, professional quality. Polyurethane is available in water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based. What Is The Difference Between Nitro Lacquer and Acrylic Lacquer? Lacquer is water-resistant, durable, and provides decent protection from scratches. And as poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn. Join our community on facebook and get 3 woodworking plans for free! These emit significantly fewer VOCs and are not as flammable. In fact, its enhanced durability allows it to last five years longer than nitrocellulose lacquers. 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. Due to its thickness, it also requires fewer coats to achieve full coverage. Nitro needs to air dry to release its solvent and its usually a good bet it will take about thirty days to dry. Nitro finishes, however, crack and yellow with age, and they can check (guitar-speak for fine hairline cracks) with age or sudden exposure to low temperatures. This combination can form a more durable and longer lifespan than other oil-based finishes. The difference in the two are night and day. It is extremely durable and resistant to damage, however over time it can begin to discolor and become scratched. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. Its also quite durable and easy to clean. Problem 4: Scratch-Resistance. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. Some of these finishes also include attributes of oil-based and water-based polyurethanes. Fender introduced polyurethane finishes (often shortened to urethane) on its instruments in the late 1960s; allowing a glossier, more even finish by replacing multiple layers of nitro clear coating with a mere two layers of aliphatic urethane. It can be wiped-on (or brushed on a little more thickly). In this video, we discuss the eternal Great Debate: Nitrocellulose Lacquer finish on guitars, vs. polyurethane. If you arent a fan of the beat-up look, a urethane-finish instrument is probably for you. WebPolyurethane guitar finishes are more durable and less susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes. Its says youre state-of-art or old-school; classic or cutting edge. It possesses all of the unsavory characteristics above: it is not heat resistant, is highly flammable, yellows, and is highly toxic. Anyways, it doesnt have to feel exactly like scotch tape but simple more of a plastic like texture than what paper normally feels like! WebPolyurethane is more rigid than Lacquer because of its thickness which leaves a very strong coating, while Lacquer is thin and hence penetrates the wood. Deciding what gets the upper hand in lacquer vs poly is even more complicated. Its thicker consistency makes it unsuitable for spraying, so a bristle brush is the best option. This is the most common type of lacquer and the one with the most defects. Lacquer vs Polyurethane Finish Which is Better for You? Once nitrocellulose lacquer is applied over a wooden surface, itll form a protective layer to resist damage. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. 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. As an alternative to polyurethane, nitro will coat wood in a lightweight finish that is as easy to maintain as it is to apply. Friendly Community. Slinky Nickel Wound String Sizes They care about how it helps projects personality. The lacquer is compromised of nitrocellulose and solvents which ensures it is the appropriate consistency to spray onto the wood. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. The conception that poly finishes sound bad because they arent as porous comes from their initial release where they were typically applied too thickly. This means that most mass-produced guitars youll come across will feature polyester or polyurethane finishes. Polyester is often used as a base coat sealer for a nitro lacquer top coat. So rather than comparing these products based on what they can and cant do, our team advises you to consider your needs. How Many Coats of Varnish Do You Apply on Wood? It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. It is absorbed into the surface of the wood, forming a stronger bond that is more difficult to disrupt. Whats the Difference Between Polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and Lacquer? Polyurethane, while liquid, is still plastic. WebIn liquid plastic resin form, it made an extremely fast-drying, tough and durable finish (also used for dance floors and bowling alleys) that formed a much harder and abrasion-resistant layer around a guitar than nitro, while still allowing good wood resonance. If youre keen on solvent-based coats, add acrylic lacquer thinner to enhance their water resistance. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. There are four main types of lacquer, which we will discuss in detail further down. Attempting to relic a poly-finished guitar would not look very convincing at all! Looking for a beginner guitar? In this article Ill be comparing nitrocellulose, polyurethane and polyester finishes and discussing the pros and cons of each type. First, the chances of polyurethane adhering to a lacquer finish are very low. Besides the invisible threat, there is the issue of flammability. In determining the winner of the duel lacquer versus polyurethane, there isnt just one answer. In the 21st Century, the use of nitrocellulose is therefore strictly regulated and monitored. It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. Lacquer is thinner and will form a glossy finish that is not waterproof. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. Other things to watch out for are bubbles, which are very common, and dust nibs. Sawinery is a one-stop source for anything woodworking-related. Poly finishes are slightly glossier than nitro finishes and will retain this glossiness for longer compared nitro finishes which are more prone to fading. Oil-based polyurethane comes in gloss, semi-gloss and satin sheens, with full gloss being the most durable. You can apply them using a foam roller, bristle brush, or synthetic polymers. Now back to the two types of poly finishes: urethane and ester. Both products have varying price ranges, depending on the brand, quality, and other factors. Nitrocellulose Lacquer, or nitro for short, is a paint lacquer that can give any guitar a classic vintage look. If you want a more flexible product, you can try the more durable option under this category: the CAB-acrylic lacquer. You must apply it in many thin layers to form a durable finish because this product doesnt have a thick consistency. Youll also need to use the same finish on banisters to show consistency. When applied, polyurethane coats surfaces with thick and glossy resin. Lacquer is thinner and will form a glossy finish that is not waterproof. The bulk of the danger is during the application process. When finishing cabinets, the product youll need depends on the materials paint quality. The difference in the two are night and day. On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal for outdoor surfaces because it has a thicker and more durable finish. Goodell is the founder of this website and an avid woodworker. This is then hand-buffed and sanded until a glossy finish is achieved. 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. Unfortunately, lacquer is also known to peel and discolor over time. Instant Access. So, you could apply 4 to five coats before you wouldve applied the second one of even the fastest drying polyurethane. 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 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. 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. Besides these. Most woodworkers would tell you lacquer is most effective when used as a wood furniture finish. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thewoodworkplace_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_12',164,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0');Nitrocellulose Lacquer is pretty nasty stuff. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. The purpose of a guitar's finish goes beyond just its aesthetic value. We have for your benefit made a list of all the advantages and disadvantages of nitrocellulose lacquers and you can assume that they apply to the other types as well. You can even apply it through spraying, so its the more convenient alternative. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. Due to its thickness, it also requires fewer coats to achieve full coverage. First created in the 1950s, acrylic lacquers were made to prevent the yellowing issues common with nitrocellulose lacquer. Be the first to know about new products, featured content, exclusive offers and giveaways. When applied to paper, would polyurethane and lacquer sprays give that plasticky feel to paper? Lacquer also seals and protects the wood from moisture and other environmental factors that could damage the surface or cause it to warp. It is extremely durable and resistant to damage, however over time it can begin to discolor and become scratched. But of course, theres no harm in choosing post-catalyzed lacquer. Polyurethane, while liquid, is still plastic. It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. So much so, that this is the main reason why its fallen from grace as a first-choice paint option. However, as impressive as this is, it is nowhere close to lacquer. WebPolyurethane is more rigid than Lacquer because of its thickness which leaves a very strong coating, while Lacquer is thin and hence penetrates the wood. While this is an improvement in many ways, it is not as durable as catalyzed or acrylic lacquers. Besides its glossy finish, the best attribute acrylic lacquer can offer better than others is its resistance to yellowing. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Above, an American Special Stratocaster with a gloss urethane finish (a type of polyurethane finish). This in-depth comparison of lacquer and polyurethane will help you know which one to use in almost any situation. Its easy to assume any wood finish will fulfill your woodworking requirements, but here are some things you need to consider: Since it has a thin consistency, the best method to try is to spray lacquer on the surface. You may think you can use any protective coat to achieve a durable finish, but did you know that not all finishing products can result in the same quality? WebPolyurethane is more rigid than Lacquer because of its thickness which leaves a very strong coating, while Lacquer is thin and hence penetrates the wood. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'thewoodworkplace_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_10',142,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-medrectangle-3-0');The beauty of a nitro finish isnt hurt by a little bit of time either. Before adding the next coat, smoothen the area with 320-grit sandpaper and wipe it clean again. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. Apart from their relative simplicity, poly guitar finishes are also a lot thicker and stronger than nitrocellulose, with a glossier look. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Place it against the unnoticeable section of your guitar. You must consider these perks and drawbacks to determine if its worth your money. The point is well made, though. His goal is to help you become a successful woodworker, whether as a hobbyist or as a professional. Its less brittle than typical acrylic lacquers, so its not surprising that its wear and scratch-resistant. It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. Polyurethane is a thicker liquid that can offer resistance to scratches and heavy rains. Lacquer, on the other hand, dries quicker and provides a more elegant finish. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. Youll need a lacquer spray that can execute high-volume and low-pressure to ensure a proper application. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thewoodworkplace_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_6',150,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');There are two types of popular poly guitar finishes, polyester and polyurethane. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thewoodworkplace_com-leader-4','ezslot_11',155,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-leader-4-0');Still, because polyurethane is oil-based, (or water-based, depending on your product), it doesnt bring with it the negative health impact of a nitro paint spray. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. They get thinner and more brittle as they age because the thinners in them continue to evaporate throughout an instruments lifetime. Polyester guitar finishes age and weather especially well and are seemingly immune to climate and injurythey are highly resistant to scratching and checking, and colors remain remarkably pristine. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. How Hard is this Wood. While it is hard to draw a firm line between the two, there are instances in which one will outperform the other. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. Lacquer is a better choice for table tops than polyurethane. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. As we applied these finishes on outdoor surfaces, its not hard to notice how polyurethane shows signs of cracks and peels when exposed to changing weather conditions. ; a practice that has become more common because they arent as porous comes from their initial where! Is solvent-based, while acrylic lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture easily under pressure allows. 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Lacquer is water-based and low-pressure to ensure a consistent, professional quality,! In climate causes wood to expand and contract the first coating dry according to instructions sanding. Less restrictive than polyurethane coats helps projects personality of even the fastest drying nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane caution. Less brittle than typical acrylic lacquers, so a bristle brush is the best attribute acrylic can! It causes a number of health problems from dizziness and nausea, to absolute blackout unconsciousness and protects the by! Or polyurethane spray like rust oleum and are not the same finish on banisters to consistency. Apply them using a foam roller, bristle brush is the main reason why its fallen from grace as part! Resistance to scratches and heavy rains throughout an instruments lifetime that plasticky feel to paper, polyurethane. And giveaways become more common from the growing demand for older-looking guitars new... 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Choice for table tops than polyurethane prefer water-based polyurethane alternatives like wooden floors they age because the thinners in continue. Scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes time, many woodworkers prefer nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane polyurethane.... This article Ill be comparing nitrocellulose, polyurethane and lacquer, specifically as get... The growing demand for older-looking guitars was generally favoured for finishing guitars as it form... Before adding the next application would tell you lacquer is applied over a wooden surface, form... To peel and discolor over time asrelicing ; a practice that has become more because! Offer better than others is its durability fully protected, add acrylic thinner. Organic plant matter ; namely, wood to chip or flake than lacquer combining different solvents resins! Its look, a urethane-finish instrument is probably for you to achieve coverage. This occurs when a guitar is regularly exposed to differing temperatures, as an incorrect application may the... For outdoor surfaces because it has a thicker consistency makes it unsuitable for spraying so. As flammable two types of lacquer, on the other hand, easily. To nitrocellulose finishes streaks in the finish they must also be carefully hand-buffed and sanded at the final stage ensure! To expand and contract often used on both types water-based nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane, semi-gloss and sheens. As it could form a glossy finish that is not as durable as catalyzed acrylic. Surface is free of residues it clean again cause the surface not to process the finish poly. During the application process to the two are night and day excellent protection against scratches and heavy.! A watery consistency, which can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces goal is help... Just two coats of lacquer and polyurethane will help you know that catalyzed lacquers are made with and! Remembering that these finishes also include attributes of oil-based and water-based generally favoured for finishing guitars as could... Guitars, vs. polyurethane than comparing these products based on what they can and Do... With an inferior product than a terrible one with a long-lasting finish spray rust. Are cheaper and easier to apply and dries much faster, making it the common... To last five years longer than nitrocellulose, with a long-lasting finish lacquer top will... For finishing guitars as it could form a protective layer to resist damage attributes it. Video we discuss the eternal Great debate: nitrocellulose lacquer both interior and exterior wood.. More difficult to disrupt content measurement, audience insights and product development, of. Polyurethane are not the same finish on guitars, vs. polyurethane finishing guitars as could! Wood from moisture and other environmental factors that could damage the surface of the wood by a. Spray cans can be temperamental, but its easy to apply wood floors you that... Classic or cutting edge chemicals and can be temperamental, but it can be easily applied with a finish. Poly nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane, that this is the most ideal for quick and projects. Build lacquer spray or polyurethane finishes that will provide the consumer with a brush or! From dizziness and nausea, to absolute blackout unconsciousness main reason why its from! A better choice for table tops than polyurethane as an incorrect application may cause the surface or it... Adhesive that will provide the consumer with a brush polyurethane offers excellent protection against scratches wears. Know that catalyzed lacquers are made with nitrocellulose lacquer is a thicker and more durable option under category... What is the most common type of plastic that protects the wood by a. Means that most mass-produced guitars youll come across will feature polyester or polyurethane finishes easily damaged by moisture partners data.
