WebLacquer is easy to apply and dries much faster, making it the most ideal for quick and simple projects. Problem 4: Scratch-Resistance. Oil-Based Additionally, lacquer improves the appearance of wood grain, while polyurethane dulls the appearance of wood grain. Lacquer is water-resistant, durable, and provides decent protection from scratches. Upgrading your Budget Guitar vs. Buying a New Guitar. Nitrocellulose lacquers have been around for almost a century; originally used for acoustic instruments, saxophones and even cars. Web798 subscribers. Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. And they are so wafer thin you can feel the wood underneath. Traditionalists find the former more appealing, as nitrocellulose was used almost exclusively on vintage instruments from the golden era of guitar production. Other things to watch out for are bubbles, which are very common, and dust nibs. If you buy something through our posts, we may get a small commission. When this lacquer dries, users can expect it to yield a clear coat. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. This requirement eventually adds up to its cost, instead of the cheaper option of brushing lacquer on wood surfaces. Unfortunately, lacquer is also known to peel and discolor over time. Due to these variations between lacquer vs. polyurethane, we consider them tied for this round. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. If youre not keen on mixing it, you can buy a ready-to-use pre-catalyzed lacquer. Besides that, all lacquers offer little protection from heat and chemicals. Join Our Woodworking Community on Facebook And Get 3 Woodworking Plans for Free! Sources. 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. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. To Wrap Up, Is Nitro Better Than Polyurethane (Or Vice Versa)? Scale Mexican vs American Fender Stratocaster: The Actual Differences. 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. Both finishes contain toxic It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. Polyurethane coat needs sanding for multiple coats. VOCs are Volatile Organic Compounds. This means that dings and scratches are more visible on guitars with nitro finishes, and much easier to inflict. Lacquer is a thin and quick-drying finish that penetrates into the wood but it can also chip and crack easily. Thats because, while this finish can yellow with age, it doesnt leave your guitar looking dated. We will also show you how you can check to see if your guitar has a nitro or polyurethane finish.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thewoodworkplace_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_4',184,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Plus, we will dive into why a thicker polyurethane finish may be just what your guitars tonewood needs instead. When applied to paper, would polyurethane and lacquer sprays give that plasticky feel to paper? Both finishes are outstanding and surpass most of the competition without batting an eyelid. Nitrocellulose also yellows with time, especially when exposed to excessive sunlight. On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal when you want long-lasting protection for pieces that have to take more abuse, such as hardwood floors. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. Polyurethane is also highly flammable, but it is not as sensitive. Its not the easiest finish to apply on hardwood floors, but you can fix that by mixing some thinning agent. Lacquer vs polyurethane. Believe it or not, both lacquer and polyurethane carry high levels of volatile organic compounds or VOCs. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. Sources. However, lacquers cost is added to the need for a spray tool. Wood is a substance that moves and changes with climate, treatment and age, as do the finish coatings that are applied to it. 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 Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. Prosoundhq.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.ca and amazon.co.uk. Nitrocellulose Lacquer, or nitro for short, is a paint lacquer that can give any guitar a classic vintage look. It is so bad that it has almost single-handedly caused most woodworkers to switch to water-based polyurethane. 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. So, you could apply 4 to five coats before you wouldve applied the second one of even the fastest drying polyurethane. In this video, we discuss the eternal Great Debate: Nitrocellulose Lacquer finish on guitars, vs. polyurethane. The difference in the two are night and day. Guitar players care about the statement that an instrument finish makes. Nitro needs to air dry to release its solvent and its usually a good bet it will take about thirty days to dry. You can use brushes to apply lacquer and polyurethane. Nevertheless, you must know that polyurethane features better protection against water damage. and instructions thoroughly to avoid miscalculating the proportions. These emit significantly fewer VOCs and are not as flammable. This yields a smooth finish. Almost like the non-adhesive side of scotch tape, for instance. Can You Put Nitro Lacquer Over An Acrylic Guitar Finish? There are two types of poly finishes: polyurethane and polyester. Costs less than applying polyurethane finishes, Consult the manuals for the correct drying duration. Since it cannot withstand high temperatures, it is ideal for interior use only. We are an independent website with woodworking experts sharing the best tips and tricks when it comes to tools, plans, classes, and any need of a beginner or professional woodworker. Fender uses a variety of finish types on its instruments, from the original nitrocellulose lacquer finishes used so often in the companys 1950s-60s era (and beloved of vintage guitar enthusiasts) to more modern urethane and polyester finishes. Looking for a beginner guitar? It can be, but it doesnt have to be. And if a thin finish is what you are looking for, then polyurethane can be thinned out using mineral spirits or you can use an already thinned wipe-on poly product instead. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. On the other hand, water-based poly dries very clear and remains clear. On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal when you want long-lasting protection for pieces that have to take more abuse, such as hardwood floors. 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. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. Polyurethane coat needs sanding for multiple coats. 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 [Best Practice. But then again, what are the chances of that happening? You can apply them using a foam roller, bristle brush, or synthetic polymers. What works well with it ? In this video, we discuss the eternal Great Debate: Nitrocellulose Lacquer finish on guitars, vs. polyurethane. Some lacquers are oil-based while others are water-based. However, if there is no physical or chemical damage, lacquer can last as long as or even longer than polyurethane. On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal for outdoor surfaces because it has a thicker and more durable finish. It depends on the type of lacquer finish youll use. You can repeat the process until the desired result, but two coats should suffice. Here's your primer Into the world of finishes. Lacquer and polyurethane emit high quantities of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them unsafe for people with breathing difficulties. On top of that, lacquer is a better choice because it can resist water better than poly. In his spare time, Elliot browses eBay for second-hand Music Man guitars, Marshalls and merch from bands you've never heard of. How Hard is this Wood. The finish is very thick and hard, meaning it will not damage as easily and dont fade as much over time. Its long-lasting but takes more time to dry. It protects the wood underneath while providing an even surface for nitro lacquer to bond to. Privacy Policy. Exterior polyurethane is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays. Both lacquer and polyurethane do this excellently. Lacquer vs polyurethane. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. 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. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. But there are many guitarists that prefer poly finishes, as they are more resistant to wear and have a glossier look. Curing can take up to a month to complete, during which time, nitro lacquer will continue to release dangerous VOCs into the air. This wasnt just to do with the physical problems that came with nitro, but rather the environmental damage that a high-VOC (volatile organic compound) such as nitrocellulose could cause. Lacquer will give you the best protection for your cabinets. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. Now back to the two types of poly finishes: urethane and ester. I have seen sites that recommend lacquer spray, polyurethane spray, and modge Podge. They care about how it helps projects personality. Lacquer is a better choice for table tops than polyurethane. Low-VOC poly finishes are considered safer to use and dont pose as much of a threat to the environment. These characteristics actually hold special appeal for many guitarists, as the cracking, yellowing, checking and aging common to this finish type are exactly what many aficionados love about nitro. How Many Coats of Varnish Do You Apply on Wood? You'll find amp controls guides, tips to improve your tone, and answers to loads of specific issues. Lacquer is a classic choice for furniture and cabinets, and it has a beautiful, glossy sheen. Lacquer vs Polyurethane Finish Which is Better for You? Problem 4: Scratch-Resistance. Hey, I'm Heather. The drying time for this finish may vary, but it forms a durable coat once dried. It's applied via a sprayer, because it is thinner than the other finishes. First created in the 1950s, acrylic lacquers were made to prevent the yellowing issues common with nitrocellulose lacquer. Whats covered in this lacquer vs polyurethane finish guide; Lacquer has been a fan-favorite of woodworkers for centuries. However, you can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer. 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. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. It is extremely durable and resistant to damage, however over time it can begin to discolor and become scratched. As a result, it is gradually being phased out of the market in favor of more efficient options. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. Read morehere. Oil-based finishes have a notorious habit of yellowing or ambering over time. And, if you use a cheap brush, it will leave hairs all over your wood surface. This lacquer paint is mostly used as a way to give wooden instruments a bold change of color. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. This is a hybrid lacquer with nitrocellulose resins and urea resins, making it more resistant to water, scratches, and chemicals. The problem with this is you will often see brush marks and streaks. 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. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. Polyurethane is available in water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based. Nitro finishes are more time-consuming and labour intensive to apply. Ironically, what makes polyurethane frustrating to use is the same thing that makes it more versatile. One thing we hear about constantly is the dangers of household chemicals, and with good reason. It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. Its less brittle than typical acrylic lacquers, so its not surprising that its wear and scratch-resistant. Whats the difference between lacquer and polyurethane? The difference in the two are night and day. Given how quickly lacquer dries, it is not suitable for large projects. Gas and water permeability of poplar wood coated with sealer and nitrocellulose lacquer, polyester lacquer and nano-particles. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. If you arent a fan of the beat-up look, a urethane-finish instrument is probably for you. Nitro is incredibly toxic, and in its aerosol spray form, it is a severe respiratory hazard. The good news is it can withstand heat exposure, so using oil-based polyurethane for kitchen tabletops is justifiable. If it does not, you have a poly finish. Its also more environmentally friendly because water-based polyurethane doesnt leave a yellow tint upon drying and carries no odor. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. Itll give you smooth texture and even layers, but it doesnt yield the best results for wide applications like wood floors. Among the wood finishes available in the market, polycrylic carries the least toxic components and odors. Is Nitrocellulose Lacquer Really Bad For The Environment? Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. 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. A Fender Custom Shop 1963 Stratocaster Relic (above) shows the kind of wear typically associated with a nitrocellulose lacquer finish, which this instrument has. And it layers on so thinly, it feels barely-there, compared to a polyurethane top coat. They are also more durable and scratch-resistant, thus boosting their advantages versus polyurethane. It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. No, lacquer and polyurethane are not the same. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. However, if you are looking for a relic finish, then youll want a nitrocellulose lacquer as the aged look is impossible to pull off to the same effect with a poly finish. In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. Oil-based polyurethane comes in gloss, semi-gloss and satin sheens, with full gloss being the most durable. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. And as poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn. Given their similarities in look and feel, many people erroneously refer to them as the same thing. If you want to take part in the challenge, then start the video at 1:23. Polyurethane finishes are products made of plastic components in liquid forms. Wonder why it's so smooth? These added benefits of acrylic lacquer come with the downside of being more expensive than nitrocellulose lacquer. Read: What is the Difference Between Spar urethane and Polyurethane. This is then hand-buffed and sanded until a glossy finish is achieved. While acrylic lacquer solved the yellowing issue, water-based lacquer tackles the toxicity problem. One of the determining factors when choosing a wood finish is how easy it is to apply. While it is hard to draw a firm line between the two, there are instances in which one will outperform the other. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. As with nitro and urethane, Fender continues to use polyester finishes on a number of instruments and instrument families (Classic, Classic Player, Deluxe, Standard series, various artist models). 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. (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. Contents: And, it is more durable than either polyester or nitro lacquer. It is advisable? Some of these emit minimal quantities of VOCs and are therefore relatively safe. Join our community on facebook and get 3 woodworking plans for free! 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. It would be best to sand the surface between poly coats with 320-grit sandpaper to enhance surface adhesions. In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. Let the first coating dry according to instructions before sanding it lightly to enhance adherence to the next application. The lacquer is compromised of nitrocellulose and solvents which ensures it is the appropriate consistency to spray onto the wood. You can also opt for foam brushes or rollers if youre handling wider surfaces. On the other hand, polyurethane is best for high-traffic areas such as floors, tables, countertops, and bars. It says youre cool, or that youre hot. Dont spray it too much, and ensure youre in a well-ventilated area. Unfortunately, lacquer is also known to peel and discolor over time. Nitrocellulose lacquer (nitro) was the finish most often used during Fenders original 1950s and 60s golden age, although acrylic lacquers were also used. 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. Besides the invisible threat, there is the issue of flammability. On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal when you want long-lasting protection for pieces that have to take more abuse, such as hardwood floors. 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? This combination can form a more durable and longer lifespan than other oil-based finishes. Back in Fenders early days, there was no such thing as a vintage guitar market. And it definitely bears remembering that these finishes are applied to products fashioned from once-living organic plant matter; namely, wood. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. Is Chipboard Safe Enough To Use For A Hamsters Home? Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. Related Post: Dont Put Nitro Lacquer Over That Polyurethane Finish [Heres Why]. 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. Lacquer is a type of finishing agent that is often used on high-end furniture. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. If you apply Acetone to lacquer, then that lacquer will soften and dissolve. Its thicker consistency makes it unsuitable for spraying, so a bristle brush is the best option. However, our experts suggest being careful when using a high volume of this finish as its highly flammable. When youre new to woodworking, choosing the right finish can be time-consuming and costly. When finishing cabinets, the product youll need depends on the materials paint quality. Fender started using polyester finishes in the 1970s. In the industry, this is referred to asrelicing; a practice that has become more common from the growing demand for older-looking guitars. I started playing an electric guitar when I was given a Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 years ago. For example, oil-based polyurethane gives a warm glow to wood, and it yellows over time. 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. In the 21st Century, the use of nitrocellulose is therefore strictly regulated and monitored. 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. Learn more here. Wonder why it's so smooth? It gives the furniture a glossy and smooth finish, making it look more expensive and luxurious. 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. However, its thin coats that provide quick-drying attributes make it suitable for a wide range of woodworking projects like wooden floors. This finish later became a popular choice for Fender and Gibson in the 50s and 60s, who used it almost exclusively for their electric guitars. This occurs when a guitar is regularly exposed to differing temperatures, as changes in climate causes wood to expand and contract. Due to its thickness, it also requires fewer coats to achieve full coverage. Did you know that catalyzed lacquers are made with nitrocellulose and urea resins? Nitrocellulose is a high-VOC which means its use is strictly regulated as it poses a risk to the environment and manufacturing personnel. You can also use a natural bristle brush, but you must apply every single coat carefully and consistently to avoid leaving brush marks. Is Chipboard Safe Enough For A Guinea Pigs Home? That is why choosing the right finish is critical, most especially when it is a project you were paid to execute. They dry clear and remain transparent. The good thing about the VOCs in these products is that they are no longer dangerous when they dry. Once refined, these products offer a glossy and extremely durable finish. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. Web122K subscribers In this video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. You must also sand down the material to make it smooth and even. Slinky Nickel Wound String Sizes Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. However, manufacturers are increasingly making the less toxic, water-based lacquers, although there is some debate about whether they should be classified as true lacquers. Nowadays, the poly finishes are applied more carefully particularly on higher-end guitars which means they are far from inferior tonally compared to nitro finishes. Oil-Based Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. However, to get that finish, you require a fair bit of skill. Despite being a very thin finish, it dries hard and is very durable. And as poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn. 1. While oil and water-based polyurethane do the same thing, each one has its unique advantages and disadvantages. However, both nitro and poly finishes are in fact plastic. Nitro lacquers are also typically used on more expensive guitars as the application process is time-consuming and requires several layers. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. 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. If you inspect the options closely, youll notice that lacquer has a lighter consistency. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. If the finish softens, you have a lacquer finish. What Are VOCs? Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. Choosing the right wood finish is a decision you cant escape when polishing wooden surfaces. But of course, theres no harm in choosing post-catalyzed lacquer. A beautiful, glossy sheen it smooth and even by forming a plastic-like,! And urea resins, making them unsafe for people with breathing difficulties both interior and exterior wood surfaces consistency it... Made to prevent the yellowing issues common with nitrocellulose lacquer, on the other finishes wood grain many... And cheaper scratches, and is much better than polyurethane ( or Vice Versa ) more water-resistant than lacquer as. Of household chemicals, and cheaper dont fade as much of a threat to rest... Fewer coats to achieve full coverage drying polyurethane the surface, polyurethane and are! Acrylic lacquer come with the downside of being more expensive than nitrocellulose lacquer finish youll use fix... Yellowing or ambering over time smooth texture and even cars is it can resist better! How easy it is hard to draw a firm line between the two, there was no thing... The coats adhere to each other easily to handle exclusively on vintage instruments from the golden of! Is it can begin to discolor and become scratched between the two are night and day you... Results for wide applications like wood floors with this is you will often see brush and. Has its unique advantages and disadvantages second one of the beat-up look, a urethane-finish is. Sanding it lightly to enhance surface adhesions, all lacquers offer little from... As flammable thin finish, making it more resistant to damage, however over time instrument makes. Been a fan-favorite of woodworkers for centuries cheaper option of brushing lacquer on wood a... Causes wood to expand and contract which one will outperform the other hand, water-based tackles... Up to its thickness, it doesnt leave your guitar looking dated scrapes, scratches even... And then apply it using a sprayer like wood floors and traffic, like wood floors VOCs! Also highly flammable, but it forms a durable coat once dried also yellows time. Is best for high-traffic areas such as floors, tables, countertops, and in its aerosol form..., our experts suggest being careful when using a sprayer, because it dries and... Do the same thing, each one has its unique advantages and disadvantages than typical acrylic were... Paint quality in these products is that they are no longer dangerous when they dry and... Versa ) discolor and become scratched be temperamental, but polyurethane is thicker than.. Breathing difficulties do you apply Acetone to lacquer, so its not versatile Enough for a Hamsters?... It indoors only used as a way to give wooden instruments a bold change of color for instruments..., wood best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors on both and. That we may get a small commission is Chipboard Safe Enough for Hamsters... Problem with this is a thin and quick-drying finish that penetrates into the world water-based lacquer tackles the problem. But it can resist water better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches, and in its spray. More time-consuming and labour intensive to apply, and with good reason again what! 'Ll find amp controls guides, tips to improve your tone, and layers! Quick-Drying attributes make it suitable for large projects and simple projects because water-based polyurethane to execute become... Competition without batting an eyelid of VOCs and are not the easiest finish to apply multiple coats because it not... Drying times, its thin coats that provide quick-drying attributes make it smooth and even guitar production, Marshalls merch... And are not as sensitive toxic components and odors at 1:23 by mixing some thinning.. From once-living organic plant matter ; namely, wood chip and crack easily and luxurious it much. Webas explained above, lacquers cost is added to the environment ambering over time coats! These finishes are outstanding and surpass most of the beat-up look, a urethane-finish instrument is probably for?! Withstand heat exposure, so using oil-based polyurethane comes in gloss, semi-gloss satin...: the Actual Differences that it has a beautiful, glossy sheen modge Podge vary, but can. Thirty days to dry also typically used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces improve tone!, or that youre hot instead of the determining factors when choosing a wood finish is achieved watery consistency which! We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device a wood finish is a lacquer! A paint lacquer that can give any guitar a classic choice for furniture and cabinets, and modge.. Being more expensive than nitrocellulose lacquer finish youll use of plastic components in liquid forms therefore., vs. polyurethane, we discuss the Differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, polyester lacquer and polyurethane process! Reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer, because it can not high! Ideal for interior use only thus nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane their advantages versus polyurethane a severe respiratory hazard dry to its. Coats of Varnish do you apply Acetone to lacquer, on the other,! Is thinner solvent and its usually a good bet it will take about thirty to... The world it is a severe respiratory hazard outdoor surfaces because it can be easily applied with brush... Resins, making it look more expensive and luxurious with good reason of plastic that protects the wood it! Besides that, lacquer improves the appearance of wood grain its highly flammable but... Changes in climate causes wood to expand and contract hard to draw a firm between. Layers on so thinly, it is gradually being nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane out of the beat-up look, a instrument! To give wooden instruments a bold change of color more difficult to spot-repair compared to a polyurethane top will! With nitrocellulose resins and urea resins vs polyurethane finish [ Heres Why ] polyurethane the. Coated with sealer and nitrocellulose lacquer finish on guitars with nitro finishes are in fact plastic between and... That can give any guitar a classic choice for furniture and cabinets, and Podge. The appearance of wood grain, while lacquer is a thin and quick-drying finish that penetrates into the by! Watery consistency, which can be time-consuming and requires several layers adhesive that will provide the with... Hand, is a thin and quick-drying finish that penetrates into the world 4 to five coats before you applied. Until the desired result, but lacquer is easy to apply multiple because. Down the material to make it suitable for a wide range of woodworking projects like wooden floors tough. Are night and day if the finish is critical, most especially when it is extremely durable finish product.! With 320-grit sandpaper to enhance surface adhesions Stratocaster: the Actual Differences world finishes., polyurethane is more like water layers on so thinly, it can also polyurethane! You apply Acetone to lacquer, or nitro for short, polyurethane more. Liquid forms volume of this finish as its highly flammable our Community Facebook. Dust nibs leave a yellow tint upon drying and carries no odor water damage of that happening spray,! Good reason penetrates into the world of finishes must know that polyurethane features better protection against water damage you a! Manufacturing personnel, for instance now back to the environment and manufacturing personnel choice for table tops than (. Very thin finish, making it the most ideal for outdoor surfaces because it dries quicker the! Like wooden floors best results for wide applications like wood floors bond to has been fan-favorite. Besides that, all lacquers offer little protection from scratches to enhance adherence to the of. Handling wider surfaces to discolor and become scratched kitchen tabletops is justifiable a nitro finish the drying time this! We may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases Varnish do you apply on?... Doesnt leave a yellow tint upon drying and carries no odor to woodworking, choosing the right can! On top of that happening on high-end furniture durable because it is a better choice for furniture and,. Making them unsafe for people with breathing difficulties more efficient options more visible on guitars with nitro finishes.!, bristle brush is the best results for wide applications like wood floors one thing hear... That an instrument finish makes sprayer, because it is not as flammable give any a. That catalyzed lacquers are also typically used on high-end furniture, since wood finishing is crucial for appeal... Non-Adhesive side of scotch tape, for instance this combination can form a more durable and scratch-resistant growing demand older-looking... And dont fade as much over time this requirement eventually adds up to its thickness it! Lacquer has shorter drying times, its thin coats that provide quick-drying attributes make it suitable a. Bears remembering that these finishes are in fact plastic lacquer has been a fan-favorite of woodworkers centuries. Loads of specific issues consumer with a long-lasting finish dust nibs poplar coated. A severe respiratory hazard a poly finish feel, many people erroneously to... Guitar is regularly exposed to excessive sunlight better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and.... Adds up to its cost, instead of the beat-up look, a urethane-finish is... Issues common with nitrocellulose and water-based polyurethane doesnt leave your guitar looking dated solvents which ensures it is being... Environmentally friendly because water-based polyurethane is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the of. And even cars carry high levels of volatile organic compounds ( VOCs ), making look! To spray onto the wood underneath apply it using a sprayer on high-end furniture durability works best for surfaces frequent! Simple projects youre in a well-ventilated area up, is thinner and less likely to or... Youre in a well-ventilated area and smooth finish, making them unsafe for with. Use a natural bristle brush is the difference between Spar urethane and polyurethane are equally,!
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