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. You can use brushes to apply lacquer and polyurethane. It is absorbed into the surface of the wood, forming a stronger bond that is more difficult to disrupt. So, How Can I Tell What Finish Has Been Used On My Guitar? Lacquer is a better choice for table tops than polyurethane. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thewoodworkplace_com-leader-2','ezslot_8',152,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-leader-2-0');By dabbing it with Acetone. A nitrocellulose guitar finish is applied multiple times over several days, with each coat essentially melting the previous one. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. And on andq on . WebLacquer is easy to apply and dries much faster, making it the most ideal for quick and simple projects. Its long-lasting but takes more time to dry. Since tabletops are frequently used and exposed, its great that both options offer adequate resistance against heat and moisture. However, to get that finish, you require a fair bit of skill. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. And even though polyurethane dries slower, it can work better in different projects. Far removed from its eco-friendly beginnings, modern lacquers are made by dissolving synthetic polymers in lacquer thinner. You can repeat the process until the desired result, but two coats should suffice. Due to its thickness, it also requires fewer coats to achieve full coverage. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. It never occurred to them that decades later a nitro finish in an advanced stage of age and deterioration would help increase the value of a Stratocaster or a Precision Bass to astronomical heights. WebPolyurethane guitar finishes are more durable and less susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes. Its thicker consistency makes it unsuitable for spraying, so a bristle brush is the best option. This means that multiple layers of polyester or polyurethane arent necessary, unlike nitro finishes that require many. Be the first to know about new products, featured content, exclusive offers and giveaways. Meanwhile, lacquer often takes only ten minutes. Is Nitrocellulose Lacquer Really Bad For The Environment? There are cons, Time Limited: Join our woodworking contest on Facebook and Get 3 Free Woodworking Plans Instantly. A Fender Custom Shop 1963 Stratocaster Relic (above) shows the kind of wear typically associated with a nitrocellulose lacquer finish, which this instrument has. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. After full application, the solvent chemicals are left to fully dissolve; leaving a dry resin-like texture. Believe it or not, both lacquer and polyurethane carry high levels of volatile organic compounds or VOCs. You may think you can use any protective coat to achieve a durable finish, but did you know that not all finishing products can result in the same quality? Many purists and luthiers therefore believe that a nitro finish allows a guitars wood to breathe, yielding a more open sound and greater sustain. One significant advantage of poly finishes is their durability. 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. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. Many purists and luthiers therefore believe that a nitro finish allows a guitars wood to breathe, yielding a more open sound and greater sustain. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. The only problem with water-based polyurethane coatings is they cant stand against heat. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. The good news is it can withstand heat exposure, so using oil-based polyurethane for kitchen tabletops is justifiable. In this video, we discuss the eternal Great Debate: Nitrocellulose Lacquer finish on guitars, vs. polyurethane. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. Its also more environmentally friendly because water-based polyurethane doesnt leave a yellow tint upon drying and carries no odor. Polyurethane does not have that problem. Youll have to wait a few hours before polyurethane is dry to the touch. Related Post: Dont Put Nitro Lacquer Over That Polyurethane Finish [Heres Why]. While acrylic lacquer solved the yellowing issue, water-based lacquer tackles the toxicity problem. 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. Check out our Guitar Cleaning Guide here. And as poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn. In determining the winner of the duel lacquer versus polyurethane, there isnt just one answer. 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 You could also get some 4 packing tape and laminate your drawings with it. It all depends on the ingredients used in the lacquer. Lacquer is made by combining different solvents and resins. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. Above, a Standard Stratocaster with a polyester finish. And believe it or not; guitar finish types is one of them. The point is well made, though. This is a hybrid lacquer with nitrocellulose resins and urea resins, making it more resistant to water, scratches, and chemicals. Nitrocellulose is a high-VOC which means its use is strictly regulated as it poses a risk to the environment and manufacturing personnel. It helps give color and life to its look, feel and sound, and it provides protection from all manner of external influences. Read next!). 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. (But here are the top-rated non-yellowing polyurethanes we highly recommend!). Lacquer is highly flammable. 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. Meanwhile, lacquer is only limited to extreme gloss and matte options. In addition to promoting a safe environment for painters, it also has many benefits in terms of reducing waste and producing high-quality results on surfaces such as wood, metal or plastic. I started playing an electric guitar when I was given a Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 years ago. Poly is used on instruments both affordable and expensive, from beginner guitars to premium hand-made instruments. Our interactive gear guide, FindYour.Fender.com, matches you with the perfect model by learning about your sound & style. 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. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. It forms a hard, glossy finish that is durable and easy to clean. Is Chipboard A Safe Alternative To Wood For A Rabbits Hutch? On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal for outdoor surfaces because it has a thicker and more durable finish. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. You can even apply it through spraying, so its the more convenient alternative. On the other hand, polyurethane is scratch and scuff-resistant, water-resistant, stain-resistant, and even heat-resistant. It is so bad that it has almost single-handedly caused most woodworkers to switch to water-based polyurethane. Its also quite durable and easy to clean. Can You Put Nitro Lacquer Over An Acrylic Guitar Finish? Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. When applying these products, you can choose between natural-bristle and nylon-bristled brushes. And they are so wafer thin you can feel the wood underneath. Wonder why it's so smooth? Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Given how thick polyurethane can be, it is rarely used for high-end furniture. However, our experts suggest being careful when using a high volume of this finish as its highly flammable. Both historically and today, a lot of science is involved in finish coatings for musical instruments. They dry clear and remain transparent. 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. A guitars look is a major part of the statement that guitarists make to the world about themselves. Below, take a look at a close-up of finish checking on a Fender Custom Shop 1952 Heavy Relic Telecaster. It is extremely durable and resistant to damage, however over time it can begin to discolor and become scratched. Is Hemlock a Hardwood? 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. 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. I created this website to share everything I've learnt over the past 15 years of playing guitar. You can apply them using a foam roller, bristle brush, or synthetic polymers. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. It is advisable? Lacquer also seals and protects the wood from moisture and other environmental factors that could damage the surface or cause it to warp. And it definitely bears remembering that these finishes are applied to products fashioned from once-living organic plant matter; namely, wood. Nevertheless, you must know that polyurethane features better protection against water damage. Ernie Ball Slinky String Guide: Comparison and Which to Choose. After that, apply the polyurethane in long and big motions. Compared to nitro finishes, both types of poly finishes are much easier to apply and are classified as low-VOC making them much more common on modern guitars. In fact, its enhanced durability allows it to last five years longer than nitrocellulose lacquers. Gas and water permeability of poplar wood coated with sealer and nitrocellulose lacquer, polyester lacquer and nano-particles. Polyurethane is available in water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based. Learn more here. Whats the Difference Between Polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and Lacquer? Lacquer is thin and dries quickly but is not as durable as polyurethane and isnt recommended for highly trafficked areas. The aim of a wood finish is not just to make furniture look more professional but also to protect the surface from scratches, stains, water, and everything in-between. Polyurethane is available in water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. [3 Key Comparisons]. 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. First, the chances of polyurethane adhering to a lacquer finish are very low. What is the Difference Between Spar urethane and Polyurethane. Both of these products will yellow, though polyurethane yellows much quicker. 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. Of course, youd still need to take good care of your guitar, and our range of electric guitar care productscan help your instrument to maintain a showroom look! The problem with this is you will often see brush marks and streaks. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. Is Chipboard Safe Enough For A Guinea Pigs Home? It is extremely durable and resistant to damage, however over time it can begin to discolor and become scratched. 2023 Andertons Music Company On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. However, there are some significant differences between them, making each suitable for diverse applications. Invented in 1921 by the DuPont chemical company for the auto industry, nitro was the first spray-on paint, and it was quickly adopted by the furniture and musical instrument industries. That's because the type of finish that is applied to a guitar's body and neck can actually affect how the instrument sounds and feels. 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. The best way to apply lacquer is with a high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) sprayer. If youre keen on solvent-based coats, add acrylic lacquer thinner to enhance their water resistance. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. As polyester and polyurethane is based on synthetic resin, no solvents remain after their application to a surface; hardening completely. If you want to take part in the challenge, then start the video at 1:23. Ensure that the wood-grain filler is layered properly and the surface is free of residues. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. Both finishes contain toxic 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. The chief advantage of polyester is that it makes for a colorful and extremely tough, durable finish. In 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. It is extremely durable and resistant to damage, however over time it can begin to discolor and become scratched. It gives the furniture a glossy and smooth finish, making it look more expensive and luxurious. A high build lacquer spray or polyurethane spray like rust oleum? 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. Besides its glossy finish, the best attribute acrylic lacquer can offer better than others is its resistance to yellowing. On the off chance that youre not convinced either of these finishes is suitable for you, read our guide on different wood finishes, including varnish, shellac, tung oil, and many more. When it comes to outdoor polyurethane, you can also add UV-resistant to that list. Lacquer is thinner and will form a glossy finish that is not waterproof. Fender PlayThe #1 guitar learning platformTRY FOR FREE. Scale Mexican vs American Fender Stratocaster: The Actual Differences. Once refined, these products offer a glossy and extremely durable finish. Whats the difference between lacquer and polyurethane? (How about painting over a lacquer finish? And as poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn. But if you need to do it, add some alkyd-resin varnish to the poly mixture to make them stick together. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. Polyurethane was invented in Germany in 1937. Oil-Based WebLacquer provides the extremely intense gloss finish often used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. Fender started using polyester finishes in the 1970s. Its not the easiest finish to apply on hardwood floors, but you can fix that by mixing some thinning agent. Slinky Nickel Wound String Sizes Almost like the non-adhesive side of scotch tape, for instance. 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. It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. Home Wood Maintenance Polyurethane Lacquer vs Polyurethane Finish Which is Better for You? Oil-based finishes have a notorious habit of yellowing or ambering over time. If youre not keen on mixing it, you can buy a ready-to-use pre-catalyzed lacquer. Wonder why it's so smooth? The good thing about the VOCs in these products is that they are no longer dangerous when they dry. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Check out this blindfold challenge on the Andertons YouTube channel to hear some Strats with polyurethane and nitrocellulose finishes being compared. For example, oil-based polyurethane gives a warm glow to wood, and it yellows over time. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. As you may already know, these resin residues are harvested from lacquer tree saps. In reality, the difference is so negligible that the vast majority of players will never be able to hear it. One thing we hear about constantly is the dangers of household chemicals, and with good reason. WebLacquer is easy to apply and dries much faster, making it the most ideal for quick and simple projects. Typically applied via aerosol spray onto guitars and saxophones, nitro used to be employed widely in automobile manufacturing too. Nitro finishes are more time-consuming and labour intensive to apply. However, as impressive as this is, it is nowhere close to lacquer. Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. Because of this, you may need to opt for polyurethane because they offer more matte effects. On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal for outdoor surfaces because it has a thicker and more durable finish. But then again, what are the chances of that happening? Polyurethane coat needs sanding for multiple coats. HGTV 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. In this video, we discuss the eternal Great Debate: Nitrocellulose Lacquer finish on guitars, vs. polyurethane. Besides the invisible threat, there is the issue of flammability. Polyurethane, while liquid, is still plastic. 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. Polyurethane is a durable, water-resistant finish that dries very hard. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. 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. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. You'll find amp controls guides, tips to improve your tone, and answers to loads of specific issues. Dont spray it too much, and ensure youre in a well-ventilated area. Practice caution when applying multiple coats with oil-based polyurethanes, as an incorrect application may cause the surface not to process the finish well. Polyurethane is available in water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. 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. While ancient lacquers were eco-friendly, modern ones include more chemicals and emit a high amount of (VOCs). Besides that, all lacquers offer little protection from heat and chemicals. However, water-based poly is less durable than oil-based ones. Wood is a substance that moves and changes with climate, treatment and age, as do the finish coatings that are applied to it. Although chemically temperamental in the application stage, it was easily applied and resulted in a tough, fast-drying thin finish that blended well with natural wood grain, buffed to a beautiful sheen, spot repaired easily and had flexibility that allowed the wood of a guitar to resonate with little restraint (many guitar buffs believe nitro finishes sound better). However, you can opt for a thin coat of polyurethane for added durability if the cabinet has low-quality paintwork. Lacquer is more affordable, but its also less durable and doesnt hold up as well to wear and tear. His brainchild, Sawinery, allowed him to do so as well as connect with other craftsmen. Wonder why it's so smooth? It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. 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 also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. And while the latter penetrates through the wood to make it long-lasting, it can develop discoloration and visible scratches over time. Once thats done, dont forget to clean the dust particles from the surface. Exterior polyurethane is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays. However, if there is no physical or chemical damage, lacquer can last as long as or even longer than polyurethane. 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. 2. Given the many things polyurethane protects your wood from, it is not surprising that it can handle more abuse than lacquer. 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. Two main sides split this debate; those that favour old-school nitrocellulose lacquers, and those that are content with modern polyester and polyurethane finishes. The purpose of a guitar's finish goes beyond just its aesthetic value. So, choose polyurethane over nitro. Lacquer, on the other hand, dries quicker and provides a more elegant 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. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. The lacquer is compromised of nitrocellulose and solvents which ensures it is the appropriate consistency to spray onto the wood. This is the most common type of lacquer and the one with the most defects. But of course, theres no harm in choosing post-catalyzed lacquer. Since polyurethane is thicker, it takes longer to dry than lacquer. Im actually looking for something that could give my paper drawings and inkjet images a plasticky feel to it. Once nitrocellulose lacquer is applied over a wooden surface, itll form a protective layer to resist damage. What Is A Poly Guitar Finish All About Then? With just two coats of lacquer, your cabinets will be fully protected. These emit significantly fewer VOCs and are not as flammable. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. Elliot is a Senior Digital Guitar Marketer at Andertons. In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. 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). I want to preserve a horseshoe crab shell. Polyester and polyurethane guitar finishes are also more resistant to general wear, meaning that scratches and dings are harder to see and inflict. And in this article, we compare the two main types that you'll come across - nitro and poly. As with nitro and urethane, Fender continues to use polyester finishes on a number of instruments and instrument families (Classic, Classic Player, Deluxe, Standard series, various artist models). Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. 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. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. Both finishes are outstanding and surpass most of the competition without batting an eyelid. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. This combination can form a more durable and longer lifespan than other oil-based finishes. Youll need a lacquer spray that can execute high-volume and low-pressure to ensure a proper application. As solvents dry and cure, these often times harmful gases are released into the air. 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. They care about how it affects an instruments tone, feel, look and value over time. Back in Fenders early days, there was no such thing as a vintage guitar market. Given that most projects require at least 3 coats, it could take you three days just to apply water-based polyurethane alone. Even better, its heat resistant, so it doesnt burn or blister. Because of this, we dont recommend them for outdoor furniture pieces. In the market for a new guitar? Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. Youll also need to use the same finish on banisters to show consistency. It can be wiped-on (or brushed on a little more thickly). Both lacquer and polyurethane do this excellently. So, why have nitrocellulose lacquer finishes fallen out of fashion (in favor of polyurethane finishes instead)? Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal for outdoor surfaces because it has a thicker and more durable finish. This yields a smooth finish. WebLacquer provides the extremely intense gloss finish often used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. There are many subjects that split opinion among guitarists. It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. It says youre cool, or that youre hot.