WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. 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. A high build lacquer spray or polyurethane spray like rust oleum? Ensure that the wood-grain filler is layered properly and the surface is free of residues. Below, take a look at a close-up of finish checking on a Fender Custom Shop 1952 Heavy Relic Telecaster. 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 the many things polyurethane protects your wood from, it is not surprising that it can handle more abuse than lacquer. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. 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. Thanks to this, its an easier product to apply than polyurethanes. Web122K subscribers In this video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing. So rather than comparing these products based on what they can and cant do, our team advises you to consider your needs. WebLacquer provides the extremely intense gloss finish often used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings. Another problem when applying polyurethane is the need to sand between coats. Nitrocellulose is a high-VOC which means its use is strictly regulated as it poses a risk to the environment and manufacturing personnel. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. Now back to the two types of poly finishes: urethane and ester. It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. On the other hand, polyurethane is best for high-traffic areas such as floors, tables, countertops, and bars. This process eliminates the need to sand between layers. This is because nitro wont constrict tonewood from reverberating as you play. Polyurethane finishes are seen on more premium guitars and are used on most American Fender models today. Wonder why it's so smooth? Did you know that catalyzed lacquers are made with nitrocellulose and urea resins? Urethane is far more durable, scratch resistant and easy to work with. (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. But then again, what are the chances of that happening? The solvent used is acetone; a highly-flammable substance that ultimately forms the shiny lacquer. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. While ancient lacquers were eco-friendly, modern ones include more chemicals and emit a high amount of (VOCs). His brainchild, Sawinery, allowed him to do so as well as connect with other craftsmen. Finally, lacquer dries faster than polyurethane, so its less likely to cause bubbles or streaks in the finish. However, water-based poly is less durable than oil-based ones. Hello! Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. Therefore, you must never apply it near any open flame source, and you should only use it in a well-ventilated area. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. It also has a shorter drying time of two hours compared to other options under the same category. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. Read next!). 1. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. Many purists and luthiers therefore believe that a nitro finish allows a guitars wood to breathe, yielding a more open sound and greater sustain. You must apply it in many thin layers to form a durable finish because this product doesnt have a thick consistency. Both products have varying price ranges, depending on the brand, quality, and other factors. However, lacquers cost is added to the need for a spray tool. Lacquer is water-resistant, durable, and provides decent protection from scratches. Poly is used on instruments both affordable and expensive, from beginner guitars to premium hand-made instruments. Theres a big debate in the guitar world over nitro and poly finishes and which are the best. Far removed from its eco-friendly beginnings, modern lacquers are made by dissolving synthetic polymers in lacquer thinner. Join our community on facebook and get 3 woodworking plans for free! [3 Key Comparisons]. Its says youre state-of-art or old-school; classic or cutting edge. Goodell has been in love with woodworking for more than two decades. It gives the instrument a big part of its character and its soul, which, in turn, is a part of what you do and who you are. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. Nitrocellulose are predominantly used in high-end guitars, however are less commonly used today compared to in the 50s and 60s where both Fender and Gibson utilised them. Apart from the above, small cracks can appear in a nitro finish after several years too. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. and instructions thoroughly to avoid miscalculating the proportions. Wood is a substance that moves and changes with climate, treatment and age, as do the finish coatings that are applied to it. 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. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'thewoodworkplace_com-banner-1','ezslot_3',147,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-banner-1-0');Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip than nitro lacquer finishes. 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. (But here are the top-rated non-yellowing polyurethanes we highly recommend!). Web122K subscribers In this video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing. Here is one category that is overwhelmingly one-sided. With just two coats of lacquer, your cabinets will be fully protected. Besides the invisible threat, there is the issue of flammability. 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. Like the previous method, you must sand the material first. Sources. Lacquer is a thin and quick-drying finish that penetrates into the wood but it can also chip and crack easily. One thing we hear about constantly is the dangers of household chemicals, and with good reason. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Sonically, you get tones that are more purely those of the pickups rather than other elements of the instruments construction, which many players prefer. I started playing an electric guitar when I was given a Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 years ago. This combination can form a more durable and longer lifespan than other oil-based finishes. When it comes to outdoor polyurethane, you can also add UV-resistant to that list. If you opted for a foam brush, apply it swiftly because this finish dries faster than you think. 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. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. However, as impressive as this is, it is nowhere close to lacquer. Get a cotton bud and dip it in Acetone. 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 vs polyurethane. Sources. 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. Choosing the right wood finish is a decision you cant escape when polishing wooden surfaces. You could also get some 4 packing tape and laminate your drawings with it. Because of this tedious drying time, many woodworkers prefer water-based polyurethane alternatives. Dont spray it too much, and ensure youre in a well-ventilated area. By its color, its pattern and its conditionpristine, battered or somewhere in betweenthe finish is a defining element of your instrument and your musical identity. The problem with this is you will often see brush marks and streaks. Fender continues to use urethane finishes on many of its instruments (American Standard Series, various artist models), with variants including flatter satin urethane (necks on Deluxe, Standard, Highway One, American Deluxe and American Standard models) and thicker, shinier gloss urethane (American Specials, Ritchie Blackmore Stratocaster). The bulk of the danger is during the application process. This lacquer paint is mostly used as a way to give wooden instruments a bold change of color. You must consider these perks and drawbacks to determine if its worth your money. Its also quite durable and easy to clean. Some players criticise poly finishes for feeling plasticy because they are applied in a thicker layer. Fender also experimented with acrylic during this period, but nitrocellulose was generally favoured for finishing guitars as it could form a nicer gloss. You may not know, but sprays are more costly than regular brushes. Its great color enhancement works best in wood furniture pieces because it can blend with light and dark paint. For example, oil-based polyurethane gives a warm glow to wood, and it yellows over time. The difference in the two are night and day. Exterior polyurethane is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays. And, if you use a cheap brush, it will leave hairs all over your wood surface. If you arent a fan of the beat-up look, a urethane-finish instrument is probably for you. These added benefits of acrylic lacquer come with the downside of being more expensive than nitrocellulose lacquer. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. In short, polyurethane is a curing finish, while lacquer is a drying finish. Finally, we come to what is probably the most important factor when it comes to picking lacquer or polyurethane. 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, polyurethane is ideal when you want long-lasting protection for pieces that have to take more abuse, such as hardwood floors. Polyester is often used as a base coat sealer for a nitro lacquer top coat. [Best Practice. Both of these products will yellow, though polyurethane yellows much quicker. The good thing about the VOCs in these products is that they are no longer dangerous when they dry. Hey, I'm Heather. Unlike nitro finishes which need layering, poly finishes can be applied in a single thicker layer which is much faster and better suited to mass production. A guitars look is a major part of the statement that guitarists make to the world about themselves. Nitro finishes are more time-consuming and labour intensive to apply. Polyurethane is a thicker liquid that can offer resistance to scratches and heavy rains. It causes a number of health problems from dizziness and nausea, to absolute blackout unconsciousness. 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. Almost like the non-adhesive side of scotch tape, for instance. Most woodworkers would tell you lacquer is most effective when used as a wood furniture finish. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. VOCs are Volatile Organic Compounds. This means that multiple layers of polyester or polyurethane arent necessary, unlike nitro finishes that require many. In this video, we discuss the eternal Great Debate: Nitrocellulose Lacquer finish on guitars, vs. polyurethane. 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. You can even apply it through spraying, so its the more convenient alternative. While lacquer can also be applied with other tools, that is only recommended for much smaller jobs when hiring or buying a sprayer is impractical. Read morehere. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. Join Our Woodworking Community on Facebook And Get 3 Woodworking Plans for Free! Aside from this, poly finishes are less likely to get scratched and chipped. It says your style is flamboyant or that its laid-back. Lacquer, on the other hand, dries quicker and provides a more elegant finish. The nitro finish is slightly porous compared to poly finishes, which means its softer. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. Some players are a big fan of the relic finishes which have an aged look due to the yellowing and cracks that appear over time in the nitrocellulose lacquer. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. This in-depth comparison of lacquer and polyurethane will help you know which one to use in almost any situation. 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. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. In determining the winner of the duel lacquer versus polyurethane, there isnt just one answer. Unfortunately, lacquer is also known to peel and discolor over time. And, it is more durable than either polyester or nitro lacquer. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. And it layers on so thinly, it feels barely-there, compared to a polyurethane top coat. 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. After the head-to-head polyurethane vs. lacquer comparison, its clear that these finishes work best in different projects and environments. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. Lacquer is thin and dries quickly but is not as durable as polyurethane and isnt recommended for highly trafficked areas. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. This means that most mass-produced guitars youll come across will feature polyester or polyurethane finishes. Although its a beautiful wood suitable for different. The best way to apply lacquer is with a high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) sprayer. What Is The Difference Between Nitro Lacquer and Acrylic Lacquer? You must add an acid catalyst with the lacquers liquid form to help it cure well. They must also be carefully hand-buffed and sanded at the final stage to ensure a consistent, professional quality. Some players believe that nitro finishes sound more resonant and have better sustain compared to poly-finishes, however it is very hard to notice the difference. If youre not keen on mixing it, you can buy a ready-to-use pre-catalyzed lacquer. Fender started using polyester finishes in the 1970s. So, How Can I Tell What Finish Has Been Used On My Guitar? His goal is to help you become a successful woodworker, whether as a hobbyist or as a professional. So it really depends on the specific product youre using. Problem 4: Scratch-Resistance. Due to its thickness, it also requires fewer coats to achieve full coverage. Polyurethane was invented in Germany in 1937. It possesses all of the unsavory characteristics above: it is not heat resistant, is highly flammable, yellows, and is highly toxic. If you want your instrument to look new forever, then a poly finish is superior to nitro lacquer. While oil and water-based polyurethane do the same thing, each one has its unique advantages and disadvantages. Modge Podge from any craft store will do what youre looking for. It is extremely durable and resistant to damage, however over time it can begin to discolor and become scratched. If you want a more flexible product, you can try the more durable option under this category: the CAB-acrylic lacquer. So, you could apply 4 to five coats before you wouldve applied the second one of even the fastest drying polyurethane. As these departments mostly produce premium time-honoured instruments, they therefore use nitro finishes to recapture the essence of their older vintage models. Water-based polyurethane does a much better job, as it can be recoated in as little as two hours. Polyester and polyurethane guitar finishes are also more resistant to general wear, meaning that scratches and dings are harder to see and inflict. There are many subjects that split opinion among guitarists. Given that most projects require at least 3 coats, it could take you three days just to apply water-based polyurethane alone. One of the biggest advantages polyurethane has over nitro, is its durability. 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. While this is an improvement in many ways, it is not as durable as catalyzed or acrylic lacquers.