3. What works well with it ? However, you can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer. Related Post: When Should You Use Tru-oil Vs Wipe-On Poly? Polyurethane is also highly flammable, but it is not as sensitive. Polyester is often used as a base coat sealer for a nitro lacquer top coat. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. It's applied via a sprayer, because it is thinner than the other finishes. However, you can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer. And on andq on . 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. 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 Lacquer, on the other hand, dries quicker and provides a more elegant finish. Recommended Reading: Shellac vs polyurethane. The good thing about the VOCs in these products is that they are no longer dangerous when they dry. Table top polyurethane is more prone to scratching, while lacquer is less likely to scratch. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. 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. And while the latter penetrates through the wood to make it long-lasting, it can develop discoloration and visible scratches over time. If youre looking to add a bit of extra luxury to your home, choosing pieces of furniture that are lacquered is a great way to do it. It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. WebLacquer provides the extremely intense gloss finish often used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings. Nitrocellulose also yellows with time, especially when exposed to excessive sunlight. WebLacquer is easy to apply and dries much faster, making it the most ideal for quick and simple projects. And, if you use a cheap brush, it will leave hairs all over your wood surface. 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. While this is an improvement in many ways, it is not as durable as catalyzed or acrylic lacquers. 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. Besides that, all lacquers offer little protection from heat and chemicals. 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. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. 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. Given that most projects require at least 3 coats, it could take you three days just to apply water-based polyurethane alone. However, to get that finish, you require a fair bit of skill. With just two coats of lacquer, your cabinets will be fully protected. Read: What is the Difference Between Spar urethane and Polyurethane. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. Repeat this process until you get the desired result. That is before the health-costs of this toxic paint spray saw it quickly replaced by Acrylic Lacquer paint instead. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. It is so bad that it has almost single-handedly caused most woodworkers to switch to water-based polyurethane. As solvents dry and cure, these often times harmful gases are released into the air. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. (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. Oil-based polyurethane dries to the touch in about 4 to 6 hours but isnt ready for the next coat in 12 to 24 hours. Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. Itll give you smooth texture and even layers, but it doesnt yield the best results for wide applications like wood floors. Whats the Difference Between Polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and Lacquer? 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 is light, thin, and dries quickly, so it is best applied with a high-volume, low-presser (HVLP) sprayer. Whats the difference between lacquer and polyurethane? It says your style is flamboyant or that its laid-back. Deciding what gets the upper hand in lacquer vs poly is even more complicated. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. Because of this tedious drying time, many woodworkers prefer water-based polyurethane alternatives. Costs less than applying polyurethane finishes, Consult the manuals for the correct drying duration. Polyester and polyurethane guitar finishes are also more resistant to general wear, meaning that scratches and dings are harder to see and inflict. Whats interesting, though, is that a lot of high-end guitars are deliberately damaged and worn to create an aged look. But then again, what are the chances of that happening? WebLacquer provides the extremely intense gloss finish often used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings. 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. Nitrocellulose Lacquer, or nitro for short, is a paint lacquer that can give any guitar a classic vintage look. Polyurethane, while liquid, is still plastic. Besides its glossy finish, the best attribute acrylic lacquer can offer better than others is its resistance to yellowing. Instant Access. If you buy something through our posts, we may get a small commission. Poly finishes can remain shiny even after decades of use, and dont fade away in the areas that youd typically make contact with. Water-based lacquer is another step in the evolution process. Because of this, you can count on lacquer finishes to make workpieces last a long time. 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, on the other hand, is thinner. And, more importantly, polyurethane finishes (either oil based or water based ones) are not as toxic as nitrocellulose lacquers solvent-based solution. The good news is you can always opt for the water-based options on both types. You can apply them using a foam roller, bristle brush, or synthetic polymers. This is because a thinned polyurethane top coat will give you the near-weightless benefit of a lacquer coat without any of those toxic nitrocellulose fumes. While oil and water-based polyurethane do the same thing, each one has its unique advantages and disadvantages. Oil-based finishes have a notorious habit of yellowing or ambering over time. Once nitrocellulose lacquer is applied over a wooden surface, itll form a protective layer to resist damage. The finish is very thick and hard, meaning it will not damage as easily and dont fade as much over time. Once refined, these products offer a glossy and extremely durable finish. But there are many guitarists that prefer poly finishes, as they are more resistant to wear and have a glossier look. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. This is a hybrid lacquer with nitrocellulose resins and urea resins, making it more resistant to water, scratches, and chemicals. Both finishes contain toxic Lacquer vs polyurethane. If youre not satisfied, you can remove the lacquer from wood again and repeat the steps. Repeat this process until you get the desired result. If you want a more flexible product, you can try the more durable option under this category: the CAB-acrylic lacquer. Above, a Standard Stratocaster with a polyester finish. When it comes to outdoor polyurethane, you can also add UV-resistant to that list. It is absorbed into the surface of the wood, forming a stronger bond that is more difficult to disrupt. Privacy Policy. After that, apply the polyurethane in long and big motions. 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. Ironically, what makes polyurethane frustrating to use is the same thing that makes it more versatile. 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. There are two types of poly finishes: polyurethane and polyester. 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? A highly versatile plastic, it was introduced into U.S. commercial manufacturing in the 1950s. Both finishes have tendencies to show a yellow tinge over time, but polyurethane products tend to show signs of it earlier than others. 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. Below, take a look at a close-up of finish checking on a Fender Custom Shop 1952 Heavy Relic Telecaster. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. Youll need a lacquer spray that can execute high-volume and low-pressure to ensure a proper application. Is Hemlock a Hardwood? This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. Goodell is the founder of this website and an avid woodworker. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. However, as impressive as this is, it is nowhere close to lacquer. 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. Check out this blindfold challenge on the Andertons YouTube channel to hear some Strats with polyurethane and nitrocellulose finishes being compared. 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. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. Its also quite durable and easy to clean. Polyurethane, on the other hand, will also give your cabinets good protection but it wont be as easy to clean as lacquer. Lacquer and polyurethane emit high quantities of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them unsafe for people with breathing difficulties. The drying time for this finish may vary, but it forms a durable coat once dried. Oil-Based 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. As you may already know, these resin residues are harvested from lacquer tree saps. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. As nitrocellulose is easy to damage and manipulate, most relicd guitars youll come across will have this finish. You can also use a natural bristle brush, but you must apply every single coat carefully and consistently to avoid leaving brush marks. This also means that it is not possible to achieve a true relic effect with a poly finish. Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. The overwhelmingly negative health effects of nitro lacquer has meant that its rarely used by manufacturers in mass-production lines (such as car manufacturing). How Hard is this Wood. Fender also experimented with acrylic during this period, but nitrocellulose was generally favoured for finishing guitars as it could form a nicer gloss. There are cons if you dont sand between coats of polyurethane, and you would want to avoid that. The good thing is both options have less toxic variations like water-based lacquer and polycrylic. Sources. If you arent a fan of the beat-up look, a urethane-finish instrument is probably for you. You must consider the most durable option if you apply finishes on high-traffic surfaces like wooden floors. Read morehere. How Do You Check A Nitro Finish And Identify If It Is Really Nitrocellulose Lacquer? If you want your instrument to look new forever, then a poly finish is superior to nitro lacquer. high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) sprayer. Given their similarities in look and feel, many people erroneously refer to them as the same thing. Thats because, while this finish can yellow with age, it doesnt leave your guitar looking dated. 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 Like polyurethane, polyester finishes look great, age well and are extremely durable. Before adding the next coat, smoothen the area with 320-grit sandpaper and wipe it clean again. It's applied via a sprayer, because it is thinner than the other finishes. 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. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. As polyester and polyurethane is based on synthetic resin, no solvents remain after their application to a surface; hardening completely. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. 2. It would be best to sand the surface between poly coats with 320-grit sandpaper to enhance surface adhesions. 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. Contents: Goodell has been in love with woodworking for more than two decades. These added benefits of acrylic lacquer come with the downside of being more expensive than nitrocellulose lacquer. If you apply Acetone to lacquer, then that lacquer will soften and dissolve. Ive heard that polyurethane and lacquer sprays can be applied to paper in order to give it a protective coat. For consent the chances of that happening check a nitro lacquer temperamental, but it wont be as to... Once dried acrylic during this period, but it can develop discoloration and visible over. 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