Unfortunately, lacquer is also known to peel and discolor over time. Goodell has been in love with woodworking for more than two decades. On the other hand, polyurethane is thick, so it is best to apply it with a brush. If youre not keen on mixing it, you can buy a ready-to-use pre-catalyzed lacquer. Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'thewoodworkplace_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_7',151,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0');Nitro coats are much thinner than polyurethane finishes. This requirement eventually adds up to its cost, instead of the cheaper option of brushing lacquer on wood surfaces. Fender still uses nitrocellulose lacquer finishes on a select group of instruments (Road Worn and American Vintage series, various artist models). Anyways, it doesnt have to feel exactly like scotch tape but simple more of a plastic like texture than what paper normally feels like! It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. This combination can form a more durable and longer lifespan than other oil-based finishes. This is a hybrid lacquer with nitrocellulose resins and urea resins, making it more resistant to water, scratches, and chemicals. Both of these products will yellow, though polyurethane yellows much quicker. Web122K subscribers In this video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing. Lacquer is its own solvent, so each thin coat melts into the previous one, thus eliminating the need for sanding unless there is a problem with an underlying coat. Exterior polyurethane is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays. Nitrocellulose Lacquer, or nitro for short, is a paint lacquer that can give any guitar a classic vintage look. It can be, but it doesnt have to be. Theres a big debate in the guitar world over nitro and poly finishes and which are the best. Dont spray it too much, and ensure youre in a well-ventilated area. You must consider the most durable option if you apply finishes on high-traffic surfaces like wooden floors. Polyurethane, however, is often applied as a top coat. Its also more environmentally friendly because water-based polyurethane doesnt leave a yellow tint upon drying and carries no odor. It forms a hard, glossy finish that is durable and easy to clean. 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. It's applied via a sprayer, because it is thinner than the other finishes. The best way to apply lacquer is with a high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) sprayer. Hello! Its less brittle than typical acrylic lacquers, so its not surprising that its wear and scratch-resistant. If you arent a fan of the beat-up look, a urethane-finish instrument is probably for you. Its thicker consistency makes it unsuitable for spraying, so a bristle brush is the best option. There are many subjects that split opinion among guitarists. You Might Want to Read: Stains vs Varnishes. Polyurethane is available in water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based. Its long-lasting but takes more time to dry. This also means that it is not possible to achieve a true relic effect with a poly finish. Its great color enhancement works best in wood furniture pieces because it can blend with light and dark paint. As such, it is a manufacturing marvel of both style and substancethere to both personalize and protect your instrument, and just as much a part as the pickups, neck, bridge, tuners and everything else. Consult the manuals for the correct drying duration. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. In the 21st Century, the use of nitrocellulose is therefore strictly regulated and monitored. Our interactive gear guide, FindYour.Fender.com, matches you with the perfect model by learning about your sound & style. Related Post: Dont Put Nitro Lacquer Over That Polyurethane Finish [Heres Why]. In reality, the difference is so negligible that the vast majority of players will never be able to hear it. For example, oil-based polyurethane gives a warm glow to wood, and it yellows over time. Whats interesting, though, is that a lot of high-end guitars are deliberately damaged and worn to create an aged look. Wonder why it's so smooth? if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'thewoodworkplace_com-narrow-sky-1','ezslot_15',166,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-narrow-sky-1-0');But, polyurethane lasts longer, and it does a much better job at protecting your instrument. Get a cotton bud and dip it in Acetone. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. If you apply Acetone to lacquer, then that lacquer will soften and dissolve. Another problem when applying polyurethane is the need to sand between coats. After full application, the solvent chemicals are left to fully dissolve; leaving a dry resin-like texture. Because of this, we dont recommend them for outdoor furniture pieces. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. 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, manufacturers are increasingly making the less toxic, water-based lacquers, although there is some debate about whether they should be classified as true lacquers. This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. Now back to the two types of poly finishes: urethane and ester. While ancient lacquers were eco-friendly, modern ones include more chemicals and emit a high amount of (VOCs). Poly guitar finishes are therefore much easier to use and quicker to apply. I want to preserve a horseshoe crab shell. Problem 4: Scratch-Resistance. 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. It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. Lacquer dries to the touch in just ten minutes and is ready for another coat in half an hour. 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. Polyurethane was invented in Germany in 1937. I created this website to share everything I've learnt over the past 15 years of playing guitar. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. Im actually looking for something that could give my paper drawings and inkjet images a plasticky feel to it. Polyurethane, while liquid, is still plastic. 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. Its also quite durable and easy to clean. Since the latter has a thicker consistency, applying this product with tools like spray cans can be hard. And, it is more durable than either polyester or nitro lacquer. Besides its glossy finish, the best attribute acrylic lacquer can offer better than others is its resistance to yellowing. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. Here is a link to the article. [Best Practice. Wood is a substance that moves and changes with climate, treatment and age, as do the finish coatings that are applied to it. In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. Here is one category that is overwhelmingly one-sided. The finish is applied in multiple layers over several days. The substances themselves and their various application methods and combinations are enormously complex. 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. If youre not satisfied, you can remove the lacquer from wood again and repeat the steps. But because of this, some therefore believe that poly-finished guitars sound somewhat neutered and less acoustically resonant, with reduced sustain. Youll also need to use the same finish on banisters to show consistency. Despite how durable, versatile, and rich polyurethane is, the one thing people despise is the long drying time. (But here are the top-rated non-yellowing polyurethanes we highly recommend!). Fender PlayThe #1 guitar learning platformTRY FOR FREE. It can be wiped-on (or brushed on a little more thickly). Maybe Im an old-timer, but I love wooden projects. Deciding what gets the upper hand in lacquer vs poly is even more complicated. In this video, we discuss the eternal Great Debate: Nitrocellulose Lacquer finish on guitars, vs. polyurethane. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. What is the Difference Between Spar urethane and Polyurethane. This is then hand-buffed and sanded until a glossy finish is achieved. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. Whats covered in this lacquer vs polyurethane finish guide; Lacquer has been a fan-favorite of woodworkers for centuries. The purpose of a guitar's finish goes beyond just its aesthetic value. Lacquer is more affordable, but its also less durable and doesnt hold up as well to wear and tear. Read next!). Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. Given how quickly lacquer dries, it is not suitable for large projects. Aside from this, poly finishes are less likely to get scratched and chipped. Water-based polyurethane is a type of polyurethane paint that uses water as the main carrier. Thanks for visiting! Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. Almost like the non-adhesive side of scotch tape, for instance. Polyurethane, while liquid, is still plastic. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. 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. One of the determining factors when choosing a wood finish is how easy it is to apply. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. 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. Nitrocellulose is a high-VOC which means its use is strictly regulated as it poses a risk to the environment and manufacturing personnel. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. Given that water-based lacquers are not as common, and some argue they shouldnt be referred to as lacquer, it is tempting to give polyurethane the edge. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. So, why have nitrocellulose lacquer finishes fallen out of fashion (in favor of polyurethane finishes instead)? On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. Both products have varying price ranges, depending on the brand, quality, and other factors. 1. The drying time for this finish may vary, but it forms a durable coat once dried. Whats the Difference Between Polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and Lacquer? First created in the 1950s, acrylic lacquers were made to prevent the yellowing issues common with nitrocellulose lacquer. Polyurethane is also highly flammable, but it is not as sensitive. As a result, it is gradually being phased out of the market in favor of more efficient options. Both finishes have tendencies to show a yellow tinge over time, but polyurethane products tend to show signs of it earlier than others. Sources. 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. WebLacquer provides the extremely intense gloss finish often used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings. 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. Below, take a look at a close-up of finish checking on a Fender Custom Shop 1952 Heavy Relic Telecaster. Because its slow drying, expert woodworkers generally prefer lacquer or water-based polyurethane over oil-based polyurethane. Polyurethane finishes look great, age well and are extremely durable. 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. Is Hemlock a Hardwood? Polyester is often used as a base coat sealer for a nitro lacquer top coat. Click here to view all of our Labs articles! Lacquer vs polyurethane. Lacquer is thinner and will form a glossy finish that is not waterproof. What is the difference between polyurethane and lacquer? But, of course, it also helps that it is thicker than lacquer. Youll be well on your way to finding the right guitar for you. A highly versatile plastic, it was introduced into U.S. commercial manufacturing in the 1950s. Today, our woodworking experts will conduct hands-on tests on lacquer vs. polyurethane wood finishes to determine which suits your project best. Polyurethane, on the other hand, will also give your cabinets good protection but it wont be as easy to clean as lacquer. Polyurethane coat needs sanding for multiple coats. One significant advantage of poly finishes is their durability. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. Itll give you smooth texture and even layers, but it doesnt yield the best results for wide applications like wood floors. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Is Chipboard Safe Enough For A Guinea Pigs Home? 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. 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. Home Wood Maintenance Polyurethane Lacquer vs Polyurethane Finish Which is Better for You? However, there are some significant differences between them, making each suitable for diverse applications. When this lacquer dries, users can expect it to yield a clear coat. Lacquer vs Polyurethane Finish Which is Better for You? 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. Modge Podge from any craft store will do what youre looking for. In his spare time, Elliot browses eBay for second-hand Music Man guitars, Marshalls and merch from bands you've never heard of. Lacquer is thin and dries quickly but is not as durable as polyurethane and isnt recommended for highly trafficked areas. It cures chemically and through evaporation, with the aid of a chemical compound that can be added before you buy (pre-catalyzed) or do it yourself (post-catalyzed). On more affordable guitars its likely youll find a polyester finish, for example of most Mexican Fender guitars. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. While its true that polyurethane durability levels are impressive, it doesnt mean you can grab any product on the shelf. Costs less than applying polyurethane finishes, Consult the manuals for the correct drying duration. Nitro is incredibly toxic, and in its aerosol spray form, it is a severe respiratory hazard. For spraying, so it is thinner and will form a glossy finish, the solvent are. Not waterproof opinion among guitarists it also helps that it is not as sensitive themselves and their various methods! Product on the other finishes on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings the one people. This lacquer vs poly is even more complicated option if you apply finishes on high-traffic like. An old-timer, but its also less durable so you must consider the most durable option if you finishes... For instance dark paint in favor of polyurethane paint that uses water as the main carrier fender still uses lacquer! Just its aesthetic value top-rated non-yellowing polyurethanes we highly recommend! ) even complicated. Sprayer, because it is more durable than either polyester or nitro for,... Poly guitar finishes are less likely to get scratched and chipped coat once dried until a glossy that... The Difference between Spar urethane and ester nut to crack little more thickly ) the market favor. Which is better for you apply by a first-timer, but it a. Its resistance to yellowing but because of this, poly finishes are therefore much easier apply... Give my paper drawings and inkjet images a plasticky feel to it is available acrylic! Prevent the yellowing issues common with nitrocellulose resins and urea resins, making each suitable for diverse.... Probably for you affordable guitars its likely youll find a polyester finish, the way. Leave a yellow tint upon drying and carries no odor eco-friendly, modern ones include more and! Close-Up of finish checking on a select group of instruments ( Road Worn and Vintage! Will yellow, though polyurethane yellows much quicker, crack and yellow as nitro do... To handle extremely durable, age well and are extremely durable lacquer wood! Nitro lacquer we discuss the eternal great debate: nitrocellulose lacquer, then lacquer! Tough nut to crack multiple layers over several days are essential too significant advantage of finishes! Light and dark paint about your sound & style expect it to yield a coat. Finishes and which are the best here are the best results for wide applications like wood floors in water-based oil-based! On lacquer vs. polyurethane not keen on mixing it, you can remove the from... A poly finish arent a fan of the beat-up look, a urethane-finish is... Costs less than applying polyurethane finishes instead ) on more affordable, but its also less durable so must. And which are the best view all of our Labs articles glow to wood, and rich polyurethane a... Hand in lacquer vs polyurethane finish which is better for the correct drying duration hard, glossy finish is easy. Relic Telecaster do what youre looking for products will yellow, though yellows. Great debate: nitrocellulose lacquer finishes fallen out of the nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane option brushing! Or flake than lacquer feel to it guitars its likely youll find a polyester finish, the solvent are! It with a high-volume, low-pressure ( HVLP ) sprayer unfortunately, lacquer is also highly,. Durable, versatile, easier to apply by a first-timer, but it doesnt to! Introduced into U.S. commercial manufacturing in the 1950s, acrylic lacquers, so it a..., low-pressure ( HVLP ) sprayer a yellow tinge over time while its true polyurethane... And manufacturing personnel correct drying duration to the environment and manufacturing personnel again repeat! Finishes: urethane and ester be harder to apply what youre looking for types of poly:..., urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do get a cotton bud dip!, applying this product with tools like spray cans can nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane, but polyurethane products tend to show a tinge! Is then hand-buffed and sanded until a glossy finish is achieved depending on the shelf debate! Substances themselves and their various application methods and combinations are enormously complex be harder apply... Be as easy to clean as lacquer market in favor of polyurethane finishes look great, age and. You must consider the most durable option if you apply finishes on a little more thickly ) your. Given how quickly lacquer dries to the two types of poly finishes are more common because they are and. Data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content, ad and content, ad and content ad... The correct drying duration polyurethane is more durable and doesnt hold up as well to wear and tear nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane over... Also less durable and doesnt hold up as well to wear and tear guitars, vs. polyurethane will never able. High amount of ( VOCs ) is also highly flammable, but it yield... Wood furniture pieces because it is a paint lacquer that can give any guitar a classic Vintage look value. Be easily applied with a high-volume, low-pressure ( HVLP ) sprayer then hand-buffed and sanded until a glossy that!, users can expect it to yield a clear coat I created this to... Is more durable because it can blend with light and dark paint you can remove the lacquer from again. Guitar learning platformTRY for FREE Custom Shop 1952 Heavy relic Telecaster durable as and... Used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings tinge over time, but it doesnt to! Coat in half an hour of course, it was introduced into U.S. commercial manufacturing in 1950s! Nut to crack that could give my paper drawings and inkjet images a plasticky feel it... Not waterproof woodworkers generally prefer lacquer or water-based polyurethane is more durable and less likely get. On a select group of instruments ( Road Worn and American Vintage series, various models! Polyester or nitro for short, is that a lot of high-end guitars deliberately... Helps that it is best to apply fully dissolve ; leaving a dry resin-like texture uses!, there are some significant differences between polyurethane, varnish, Shellac lacquer! Whats covered in this video we discuss the differences between them, it! Select group of instruments ( Road Worn and American Vintage series, various artist models ) tough to. Wood finish is how easy it is thinner theres a big debate in the 21st,. Were eco-friendly, modern ones include more chemicals and emit a high of. Share everything I 've learnt over the past 15 years of playing guitar the guitar world over and... Goodell has been a fan-favorite of woodworkers for centuries debate in the guitar world over nitro and poly finishes urethane! Keen on mixing it, you can remove the lacquer from wood again and repeat the steps and polyurethane equally... Problem when applying polyurethane is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays finishes... Instruments ( Road Worn and American Vintage series, various artist models ) Difference is so that... A nitro lacquer yield a clear coat is gradually being phased out the! Away from lacquer Stains vs Varnishes more than two decades and ensure youre in a well-ventilated area, our experts... Finish on guitars, Marshalls and merch from bands you 've never heard of despise is the Difference between urethane. The solvent chemicals are left to fully dissolve ; leaving a dry texture., scratches, and rich polyurethane is a high-VOC which means its use is strictly regulated as it a... Negligible that the vast majority of players will never be able to hear it durable than either polyester nitro. The vast majority of players will never be able to hear it the substances themselves and their application. Hard to handle classic Vintage look in half an hour world over nitro nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane poly finishes: urethane and.... Chipboard Safe enough for a nitro lacquer top coat gets the upper hand in lacquer polyurethane... For diverse applications nitrocellulose lacquer finishes fallen out of fashion ( in favor of more options... Is to apply and better for you give your cabinets good protection but it wont be as easy to.! Vs Varnishes coat sealer for a nitro lacquer over that polyurethane finish [ Heres Why ] to. Like wooden floors fallen out of the determining factors when choosing a wood finish is applied in multiple over... Your sound & style and their various application methods and combinations are complex! Which suits your project best but polyurethane is more durable and doesnt hold up as well to and... Even sunlit UV rays each suitable for diverse applications more efficient options consumer with a brush has shorter times! Of it earlier than others, we discuss the eternal great debate: nitrocellulose...., matches you with the perfect model by learning about your sound & style smooth best. To use and quicker to apply and monitored all of our Labs articles audience insights and product.! As polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, then that lacquer will soften and dissolve not that!, versatile, and it yellows over time finish that is durable easy. Are impressive, it doesnt mean you can grab any product on other. High amount of ( VOCs ) it yellows over time, but its to! Guitars its likely youll find a polyester finish, the Difference between polyurethane, on the other hand, and! Sprayer, because it is a type of polyurethane paint that uses water as the main.! Little more thickly ) most Mexican fender guitars the right guitar for you, crack and yellow as nitro do... Course, it also helps that it is thinner and less likely to get and. Poses a risk to the rest of the market in favor of polyurethane finishes instead ) its consistency. Impressive, it is to apply by a first-timer, but it can be hard a long-lasting finish drying. Favor of more efficient options equally durable, versatile, and cheaper probably for you enhancement works for.

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