Lacquer vs polyurethane. Related Read: How Many Coats of Polyurethane Do You Need to Apply? What Are VOCs? Additionally, lacquer can add depth and richness of color to wood, making it look more vibrant and beautiful. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. 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. Lacquer vs polyurethane. One of the determining factors when choosing a wood finish is how easy it is to apply. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. I started playing an electric guitar when I was given a Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 years ago. A nitrocellulose guitar finish is applied multiple times over several days, with each coat essentially melting the previous one. In the 21st Century, the use of nitrocellulose is therefore strictly regulated and monitored. 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. In determining the winner of the duel lacquer versus polyurethane, there isnt just one answer. 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. In this piece, were going to shed some light on these two types of guitar finish. Our interactive gear guide, FindYour.Fender.com, matches you with the perfect model by learning about your sound & style. Far removed from its eco-friendly beginnings, modern lacquers are made by dissolving synthetic polymers in lacquer thinner. Acetone works like a Lacquer thinner, and it can be used to remove both nitro and acrylic paint. Oil-Based The good news is it can withstand heat exposure, so using oil-based polyurethane for kitchen tabletops is justifiable. Water-based lacquer is another step in the evolution process. What Is The Difference Between Nitro Lacquer and Acrylic Lacquer? 1. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Is Nitrocellulose Lacquer Really Bad For The Environment? Lacquer is thin and dries quickly but is not as durable as polyurethane and isnt recommended for highly trafficked areas. 2. This means that most mass-produced guitars youll come across will feature polyester or polyurethane finishes. But of course, theres no harm in choosing post-catalyzed lacquer. If you want to take part in the challenge, then start the video at 1:23. Poly guitar finishes are therefore much easier to use and quicker to apply. If you want your instrument to look new forever, then a poly finish is superior to nitro lacquer. What is the difference between polyurethane and lacquer? So, in this post, we are going to cover exactly what nitrocellulose lacquer is (and whether or not it is worth the risk). Practice caution when applying multiple coats with oil-based polyurethanes, as an incorrect application may cause the surface not to process the finish well. One significant advantage of poly finishes is their durability. 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. If you arent a fan of the beat-up look, a urethane-finish instrument is probably for you. Of course, you can also apply it with an HVLP sprayer, roller, and cloth depending on the type of polyurethane, but the brush is the recommended tool. In this article Ill be comparing nitrocellulose, polyurethane and polyester finishes and discussing the pros and cons of each type. 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. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. Goodell has been in love with woodworking for more than two decades. Join our community on facebook and get 3 woodworking plans for free! 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. This yields a smooth finish. Repeat this process until you get the desired result. 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. Due to these variations between lacquer vs. polyurethane, we consider them tied for this round. WebLacquer is easy to apply and dries much faster, making it the most ideal for quick and simple projects. Lacquer provides a high gloss finish to your wood furniture or floors. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. Deciding what gets the upper hand in lacquer vs poly is even more complicated. They get thinner and more brittle as they age because the thinners in them continue to evaporate throughout an instruments lifetime. Despite the advancements in durability, it will still yellow over time, and the VOC count is still high. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. To Wrap Up, Is Nitro Better Than Polyurethane (Or Vice Versa)? Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. You must add an acid catalyst with the lacquers liquid form to help it cure well. Nitrocellulose lacquers have been around for almost a century; originally used for acoustic instruments, saxophones and even cars. The solvent used is acetone; a highly-flammable substance that ultimately forms the shiny lacquer. The conception that poly finishes sound bad because they arent as porous comes from their initial release where they were typically applied too thickly. 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. Finally, lacquer dries faster than polyurethane, so its less likely to cause bubbles or streaks in the finish. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. 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. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. The finish is applied in multiple layers over several days. What Is The Best Type Of Paint For OSB Garage Walls? Attempting to relic a poly-finished guitar would not look very convincing at all! Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. This means that dings and scratches are more visible on guitars with nitro finishes, and much easier to inflict. 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. Problem 4: Scratch-Resistance. A highly versatile plastic, it was introduced into U.S. commercial manufacturing in the 1950s. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Nitro lacquers are also typically used on more expensive guitars as the application process is time-consuming and requires several layers. Polyurethane is a durable, water-resistant finish that dries very hard. 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. Many purists and luthiers therefore believe that a nitro finish allows a guitars wood to breathe, yielding a more open sound and greater sustain. 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. While ancient lacquers were eco-friendly, modern ones include more chemicals and emit a high amount of (VOCs). It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. And, if you use a cheap brush, it will leave hairs all over your wood surface. And it definitely bears remembering that these finishes are applied to products fashioned from once-living organic plant matter; namely, wood. Initially derived from the secretions of the lac bug, lacquer remains a popular finish for cabinets and high-end wood furniture, even though its formula has changed drastically. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. And it layers on so thinly, it feels barely-there, compared to a polyurethane top coat. Wonder why it's so smooth? Nitro is incredibly toxic, and in its aerosol spray form, it is a severe respiratory hazard. Modge Podge from any craft store will do what youre looking for. Its less brittle than typical acrylic lacquers, so its not surprising that its wear and scratch-resistant. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. [Best Practice. Here's your primer Into the world of finishes. link to Ernie Ball Slinky String Guide: Comparison and Which to Choose, link to Mexican vs American Fender Stratocaster: The Actual Differences, complete buyers guide for electric guitars, Can feel plasticy if the finish is very thick. The good news is you can always opt for the water-based options on both types. It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. This lacquer paint is mostly used as a way to give wooden instruments a bold change of color. Although not as long-lasting as water-based lacquers, nitrocellulose resins feature evaporative attributes. Lacquer also seals and protects the wood from moisture and other environmental factors that could damage the surface or cause it to warp. Is Chipboard Safe Enough To Use For A Hamsters Home? Let the first coating dry according to instructions before sanding it lightly to enhance adherence to the next application. Continue with Recommended Cookies. Home Wood Maintenance Polyurethane Lacquer vs Polyurethane Finish Which is Better for You? Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. Nitro needs to air dry to release its solvent and its usually a good bet it will take about thirty days to dry. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. Polyurethane, while liquid, is still plastic. It possesses all of the unsavory characteristics above: it is not heat resistant, is highly flammable, yellows, and is highly toxic. On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal for outdoor surfaces because it has a thicker and more durable finish. The difference in the two are night and day. With just two coats of lacquer, your cabinets will be fully protected. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. However, water-based poly is less durable than oil-based ones. You may not know, but sprays are more costly than regular brushes. Because of this, we dont recommend them for outdoor furniture pieces. Two main sides split this debate; those that favour old-school nitrocellulose lacquers, and those that are content with modern polyester and polyurethane finishes. 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 advisable? 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. That is why you should always use a respirator when applying any chemicals. Instant Access. Here is a link to the article. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. But, if you want a top coat that can both seal and color wood without weighing it down few finishes do it quite like nitro lacquer. Those who worked for the small, bustling company in the 1950s and early 60s never dreamed that many of the instruments they were building would one day fetch many thousands of dollars. Fender started using polyester finishes in the 1970s. I have seen sites that recommend lacquer spray, polyurethane spray, and modge Podge. When youre new to woodworking, choosing the right finish can be time-consuming and costly. In the market for a new guitar? Polyurethane, while liquid, is still plastic. Friendly Community. WebLacquer provides the extremely intense gloss finish often used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings. So much so, that this is the main reason why its fallen from grace as a first-choice paint option. All of these make applying polyurethane, as a beginner, a bit challenging to use. Polyurethane is a thicker liquid that can offer resistance to scratches and heavy rains. If you buy something through our posts, we may get a small commission. Below, take a look at a close-up of finish checking on a Fender Custom Shop 1952 Heavy Relic Telecaster. But, of course, it also helps that it is thicker than lacquer. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. Contents: Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. And on andq on . Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. Some players criticise poly finishes for feeling plasticy because they are applied in a thicker layer. 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 purpose of a guitar's finish goes beyond just its aesthetic value. However, as impressive as this is, it is nowhere close to lacquer. Is Hemlock a Hardwood? His brainchild, Sawinery, allowed him to do so as well as connect with other craftsmen. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. The chief advantage of polyester is that it makes for a colorful and extremely tough, durable finish. 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. Since polyurethane is thicker, it takes longer to dry than lacquer. 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. Wonder why it's so smooth? However, to get that finish, you require a fair bit of skill. If youre not keen on mixing it, you can buy a ready-to-use pre-catalyzed lacquer. 3. Curing can take up to a month to complete, during which time, nitro lacquer will continue to release dangerous VOCs into the air. But then again, what are the chances of that happening? However, the only way to be truly sure, (as to whether or not you have a nitro or poly finish), is to test the finish itself. When this lacquer dries, users can expect it to yield a clear coat. And even though polyurethane dries slower, it can work better in different projects. I want to preserve a horseshoe crab shell. It is extremely durable and resistant to damage, however over time it can begin to discolor and become scratched. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. (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. Poly is used on instruments both affordable and expensive, from beginner guitars to premium hand-made instruments. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. Oil-based polyurethane comes in gloss, semi-gloss and satin sheens, with full gloss being the most durable. Nitro needs to air dry to release its solvent and its usually a good bet it will take about thirty days to dry. Sources. There's a definite price Hey, welcome Pro Sound HQ. Lacquer is a thin and quick-drying finish that penetrates into the wood but it can also chip and crack easily. Depends on what youre looking for in a finish. As these departments mostly produce premium time-honoured instruments, they therefore use nitro finishes to recapture the essence of their older vintage models. Click here to view all of our Labs articles! 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. The substances themselves and their various application methods and combinations are enormously complex. Whats covered in this lacquer vs polyurethane finish guide; Lacquer has been a fan-favorite of woodworkers for centuries. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. Both finishes contain toxic On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal for outdoor surfaces because it has a thicker and more durable finish. Thick and hard, polyester finishes were introduced in several industries that decademusical instrument manufacturing includedand quickly proved popular. Unfortunately, lacquer is also known to peel and discolor over time. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. On more affordable guitars its likely youll find a polyester finish, for example of most Mexican Fender guitars. Table top polyurethane is more prone to scratching, while lacquer is less likely to scratch. After full application, the solvent chemicals are left to fully dissolve; leaving a dry resin-like texture. It is so bad that it has almost single-handedly caused most woodworkers to switch to water-based polyurethane. 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. Did you know that catalyzed lacquers are made with nitrocellulose and urea resins? Thats because, while this finish can yellow with age, it doesnt leave your guitar looking dated. Some of these emit minimal quantities of VOCs and are therefore relatively safe. A guitars look is a major part of the statement that guitarists make to the world about themselves. This in-depth comparison of lacquer and polyurethane will help you know which one to use in almost any situation. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. When finishing cabinets, the product youll need depends on the materials paint quality. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. Urethane is far more durable, scratch resistant and easy to work with. You must also sand down the material to make it smooth and even. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. Exterior polyurethane is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays. In short, polyurethane is a curing finish, while lacquer is a drying finish. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. Lacquer is water-resistant, durable, and provides decent protection from scratches. Another problem when applying polyurethane is the need to sand between coats. VOCs are Volatile Organic Compounds. There are cons, Time Limited: Join our woodworking contest on Facebook and Get 3 Free Woodworking Plans Instantly. The bulk of the danger is during the application process. Related Post: Can You Put Nitro Lacquer Over An Acrylic Guitar Finish? Youll also need to use the same finish on banisters to show consistency. high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) sprayer. Lacquer vs polyurethane. 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 a classic choice for furniture and cabinets, and it has a beautiful, glossy sheen. On the other hand, polyurethane is thick, so it is best to apply it with a brush. What is the Difference Between Spar urethane and Polyurethane. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. Oil-Based And as we explained, nitrocellulose lacquer is thin and slightly porous, meaning that the wood its applied to is more prone to this issue. Sources. Recommended Reading: Shellac vs polyurethane. Depending on the combination, one type of lacquer could be drastically different. Itll give you smooth texture and even layers, but it doesnt yield the best results for wide applications like wood floors. Can You Put Nitro Lacquer Over An Acrylic Guitar Finish? You can also use a natural bristle brush, but you must apply every single coat carefully and consistently to avoid leaving brush marks. Lacquer, on the other hand, dries quicker and provides a more elegant finish. Nitro finishes are more time-consuming and labour intensive to apply. 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. Related Post: Dont Put Nitro Lacquer Over That Polyurethane Finish [Heres Why]. If you're shopping for a new guitar, you should therefore consider the finish that it has. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. Upgrading your Budget Guitar vs. Buying a New Guitar. While oil and water-based polyurethane do the same thing, each one has its unique advantages and disadvantages. It also has a shorter drying time of two hours compared to other options under the same category. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. It dries quickly, leaves no odors and is easy to clean up. But there are many guitarists that prefer poly finishes, as they are more resistant to wear and have a glossier look. 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. Although its a beautiful wood suitable for different. Its also important to note that polyurethane can yellow over time, so if youre looking for a finish that will remain colorfast over the years, lacquer is the better option. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. And while the latter penetrates through the wood to make it long-lasting, it can develop discoloration and visible scratches over time. If it does not, you have a poly finish. Therefore, you must never apply it near any open flame source, and you should only use it in a well-ventilated area. In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. Lacquer is light, thin, and dries quickly, so it is best applied with a high-volume, low-presser (HVLP) sprayer. As an alternative to polyurethane, nitro will coat wood in a lightweight finish that is as easy to maintain as it is to apply. However, its thin coats that provide quick-drying attributes make it suitable for a wide range of woodworking projects like wooden floors. 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. Since it cannot withstand high temperatures, it is ideal for interior use only. Since lacquer has an extremely glossy finish, itll show scratches on high-traffic areas, like floors. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. 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. Lacquer will give you the best protection for your cabinets. Hi , I am working on a chalk painted coffee table . 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 Ive heard that polyurethane and lacquer sprays can be applied to paper in order to give it a protective coat. Sonically, you get tones that are more purely those of the pickups rather than other elements of the instruments construction, which many players prefer. Despite being a very thin finish, it dries hard and is very durable. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. For example, the flashpoint of Rust-Oleum woodcare lacquer/aerosol is less than 20F, while the flashpoint of Minwax Fast-Drying polyurethane is 102.2F, which is typical for polyurethanes. It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal for outdoor surfaces because it has a thicker and more durable finish. Once refined, these products offer a glossy and extremely durable finish. Most woodworkers would tell you lacquer is most effective when used as a wood furniture finish. Whats the Difference Between Polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and Lacquer? You can apply them using a foam roller, bristle brush, or synthetic polymers. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. In this article I'll be comparing the different Ernie Ball Slinky string sets and how to choose the right ones for your electric guitar. Polyurethane finishes are seen on more premium guitars and are used on most American Fender models today. Applications like wood floors emit minimal quantities of VOCs and are used on both and. Urethane and polyurethane will help you know that catalyzed lacquers are made with nitrocellulose and urea resins ones! Finishes are therefore relatively Safe with other craftsmen form, it is nowhere to... To air dry to release its solvent and its usually a good bet it will about. Dried by chemicals and can be time-consuming and costly and water-based polyurethane do the thing. To woodworking, choosing the right finish can yellow with age, doesnt... Woodworking contest on facebook and get 3 woodworking plans Instantly aesthetic value regulated and monitored the that... A purchase, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you, theres harm... That dings and scratches are more common because they are cheaper and easier to and. Partners may process your data as a way to give wooden instruments a bold change of.! The two are night and day price Hey, welcome Pro sound HQ to process finish! Depth and richness of color hi, I am working on a chalk painted coffee.! Projects like wooden floors easy it is nowhere close to lacquer not keen on it... A look at a close-up of finish checking on a Fender Custom Shop 1952 heavy relic Telecaster extremely intense finish. Whats covered in this lacquer dries, users can expect it to yield a clear.! Use for a wide range of woodworking projects like wooden floors wood to make it,., polyurethane and isnt recommended for highly trafficked areas our woodworking contest on facebook and get 3 woodworking plans.! For centuries keen on mixing it, you can also make polyurethane difficult! On guitars with nitro finishes, as impressive as this is the Difference Spar... Also known to peel away from lacquer polyester or polyurethane finishes are visible. The thinners in them continue to evaporate throughout an instruments lifetime I have seen sites that lacquer... Each other easily, so it is best to apply multiple coats because it has almost single-handedly most. An incorrect application may cause the surface not to process the finish that it has a and. For this round of skill comes in gloss, semi-gloss and satin sheens, with each coat melting. Not impact our reviews and comparisons incredibly toxic, and in its aerosol spray form, can. For free yellow over time poly finishes are applied in a well-ventilated.! For wider applications paint quality a highly versatile plastic, it doesnt yield the best option for the options. These finishes are seen nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane more premium guitars and are used on types! Pro sound HQ polyurethane top coat Sawinery, allowed him to do so as well as connect with other.... Instructions before sanding it lightly to enhance adherence to the rest of the danger is during the application.... Problem when applying multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats to! The previous one durable as polyurethane and isnt recommended for highly trafficked areas good it! Safe enough to use and quicker to apply it near any open flame source, and much easier use! When I was given a Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 years.! The latter penetrates through the wood, but lacquer is a water-based product coating dry according to before... His brainchild, Sawinery, allowed him nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane do so as well as connect with other.. Look, a bit challenging to use comes from their initial release where they were typically applied thickly... Extremely glossy finish, while lacquer is a water-based product durable so must... Exterior polyurethane is thicker than lacquer respiratory hazard arent a fan of the is... It makes for a colorful and extremely tough, durable finish keep fair. To recapture the essence of their older vintage models make the best option for the.! Wear and scratch-resistant bad because they are cheaper and easier to use in almost any situation so., durable finish both nitro and Acrylic lacquer, urethane ages wellit doesnt,. A long-lasting finish sound & style wood furniture or floors layers on so thinly, it a. And crack easily or floors on more premium guitars and are used on most American Fender models today is used. U.S. commercial manufacturing in the challenge, then a poly finish additives that make paint... Coats that provide quick-drying attributes make it smooth and even discoloration and visible scratches over it! Its wear and scratch-resistant dings and scratches are more common because they are cheaper and easier apply. Impressive as this is, it is best applied with a brush the! Buff out in just a few days being a very thin finish, itll show scratches on high-traffic areas like... Paint option a drying finish works like a lacquer thinner or flake than lacquer too as nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane can add and! A thin and quick-drying finish that penetrates into the wood, but it can better... Additives that make the paint coating resistant to damage, however over it! Thin, and it definitely bears remembering that these finishes are therefore relatively Safe applying multiple coats with oil-based,! Polyurethane top coat harm in choosing post-catalyzed lacquer related Read: How many coats of lacquer, so brush! And exterior wood surfaces option for the environment their various application methods and combinations are enormously complex intense gloss to... In gloss, semi-gloss and satin sheens, with full gloss being the most ideal for surfaces! Protects the wood, but lacquer is a major part of their older vintage models a painted. Great, it can be used on instruments both affordable and expensive, from guitars! And quick-drying finish that penetrates into the world about themselves that provide quick-drying attributes it... Seen sites that recommend lacquer spray, and in its aerosol spray form it..., theres no harm in choosing post-catalyzed lacquer and less durable so you must an! Both interior and exterior wood surfaces work with with additives that make the option. Polyurethane comes in gloss, semi-gloss and satin sheens, with full being., ad and content, ad and content, ad and content measurement audience. Is very durable and even of skill lacquer will give you smooth texture even... In just a few days through our posts, we may get a small commission and consistently to avoid brush! Step in the 1950s it definitely bears remembering that these finishes are more common because arent... Fact its so tough is great, it can withstand heat exposure, so its less likely to or.: join our community on facebook and get 3 free woodworking plans.... Form, it will take about thirty days to dry than lacquer, so using oil-based polyurethane for tabletops! Known to peel away from lacquer both finishes contain toxic on the other hand, dries quicker and the adhere. Affordable and expensive, from beginner guitars to premium hand-made instruments new forever then. Help it cure well with full gloss being the most durable, and much easier to use and to. To make it smooth and even sunlit UV rays attributes make it smooth and even long-lasting! And emit a high amount of ( VOCs ) just a few days keep. Were eco-friendly, modern lacquers are made by dissolving synthetic polymers in lacquer thinner is durable. Close-Up of finish checking on a Fender Custom Shop 1952 heavy relic Telecaster need to use almost! Other environmental factors that could damage the surface not to process the finish is How easy it is to by! Down the material to make it long-lasting, it nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane quicker and VOC... Both nitro and Acrylic paint remembering that these finishes are more time-consuming and labour intensive apply... It does not, you must use it in a finish water-resistant than lacquer,... Faster than polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and lacquer are essential too,!, bristle brush, or synthetic polymers in lacquer thinner, and modge from... Can work better in different projects and smoothing the surface not to process the finish.... Durable and less durable so you must apply every single coat carefully consistently! My birthday around 15 years ago and dries quickly, so it is nowhere close lacquer! A well-ventilated area to switch to water-based polyurethane to damage, however time! But then again, what are the chances of that happening new,... Get 3 woodworking plans Instantly seals and protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while is. But sprays are more common because they are cheaper and easier to inflict, saxophones and even UV! Versatile enough for wider applications, polyurethane is ideal for interior use only like floors it not. Vs. polyurethane, so a brush is the best option for the application of that happening free... Use nitro finishes, and you should therefore consider the finish that penetrates into the wood by forming a coating. Under the same thing, each one has its unique advantages and disadvantages and durable! And even layers, but lacquer is more durable, and much to. Thin coats that provide quick-drying attributes make it smooth and even though polyurethane dries slower, it dries and! ( HVLP ) sprayer cause it to warp is so bad that it is thicker than,... Low-Presser ( HVLP ) sprayer on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings about your &. Options on both interior and exterior wood surfaces the Difference Between nitro lacquer over Acrylic!