Regarding its content, nitrocellulose lacquer is mostly solvent-based and comprised of plant-based substances like cotton, mixed nitric and sulfuric acids. What Are VOCs? The thick coat lasts for a very long time, Dries hard and can handle a lot of wear and tear, Working on a project that wont see a lot of traffic, You value durability over ease of application, When working on floors and other large surface areas. Lacquer, on the other hand, dries quicker and provides a more elegant finish. Regular Giveaways. Lacquer and polyurethane emit high quantities of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them unsafe for people with breathing difficulties. Lacquer is light, thin, and dries quickly, so it is best applied with a high-volume, low-presser (HVLP) sprayer. In mass guitar production, poly finishes largely replaced nitrocellulose lacquers from the late 60s onwards. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. 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. And believe it or not; guitar finish types is one of them. So it really depends on the specific product youre using. Related Post: Dont Put Nitro Lacquer Over That Polyurethane Finish [Heres Why]. Additionally, lacquer improves the appearance of wood grain, while polyurethane dulls the appearance of wood grain. Oil-based finishes have a notorious habit of yellowing or ambering over time. This requirement eventually adds up to its cost, instead of the cheaper option of brushing lacquer on wood surfaces. Both finishes contain toxic If you buy something through our posts, we may get a small commission. Today, our woodworking experts will conduct hands-on tests on lacquer vs. polyurethane wood finishes to determine which suits your project best. Given how quickly lacquer dries, it is not suitable for large projects. This is then hand-buffed and sanded until a glossy finish is achieved. If youre keen on solvent-based coats, add acrylic lacquer thinner to enhance their water resistance. For novice, pro and collector alike, there is no visual element of a guitar more important than its finish. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. After all, its better to have an excellent finish with an inferior product than a terrible one with a better product. 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 forms a hard, glossy finish that is durable and easy to clean. Polyurethane, however, is often applied as a top coat. Nitro finishes are much thinner and less restrictive than polyurethane coats. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. You can repeat the process until the desired result, but two coats should suffice. Nitro needs to air dry to release its solvent and its usually a good bet it will take about thirty days to dry. Im actually looking for something that could give my paper drawings and inkjet images a plasticky feel to it. Nitrocellulose Lacquer, or nitro for short, is a paint lacquer that can give any guitar a classic vintage look. Attempting to relic a poly-finished guitar would not look very convincing at all! You can use brushes to apply lacquer and polyurethane. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. And as poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thewoodworkplace_com-leader-4','ezslot_11',155,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-leader-4-0');Still, because polyurethane is oil-based, (or water-based, depending on your product), it doesnt bring with it the negative health impact of a nitro paint spray. However, you can opt for a thin coat of polyurethane for added durability if the cabinet has low-quality paintwork. That is why you should always use a respirator when applying any chemicals. Like we said, poly guitar finishes have become customary within the industry. Below, take a look at a close-up of finish checking on a Fender Custom Shop 1952 Heavy Relic Telecaster. Web122K subscribers In this video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing. With just two coats of lacquer, your cabinets will be fully protected. I now own an acoustic guitar and several electric guitars including my personal favourite, a PRS SE Custom 24. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thewoodworkplace_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_12',164,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0');Nitrocellulose Lacquer is pretty nasty stuff. Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. 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. When applying these products, you can choose between natural-bristle and nylon-bristled brushes. Lacquer dries to the touch in just ten minutes and is ready for another coat in half an hour. Their strength makes them more resistant to cracks as they cover the instrument more successfully, lessening the chance of wood expansion/contraction. [3 Key Comparisons]. This post may contain affiliate links to products that we receive a commission for (at no additional cost to you). Elliot is a Senior Digital Guitar Marketer at Andertons. Is Chipboard A Safe Alternative To Wood For A Rabbits Hutch? Deciding what gets the upper hand in lacquer vs poly is even more complicated. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. 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. Some players believe that nitro finishes sound more resonant and have better sustain compared to poly-finishes, however it is very hard to notice the difference. His brainchild, Sawinery, allowed him to do so as well as connect with other craftsmen. 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. 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. Fender introduced polyurethane finishes (often shortened to urethane) on its instruments in the late 1960s; allowing a glossier, more even finish by replacing multiple layers of nitro clear coating with a mere two layers of aliphatic urethane. And even though polyurethane dries slower, it can work better in different projects. So, why have nitrocellulose lacquer finishes fallen out of fashion (in favor of polyurethane finishes instead)? A nitrocellulose lacquer also wears away over time, causing dulling in areas where you make regular contact with your guitar; such as the lower bout where your forearm rests. 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. Both finishes are outstanding and surpass most of the competition without batting an eyelid. Is Nitro Lacquer Stronger Than Polyurethane? Learn more here. Unlike nitro finishes which need layering, poly finishes can be applied in a single thicker layer which is much faster and better suited to mass production. Thanks to this, its an easier product to apply than polyurethanes. Slinky Nickel Wound String Sizes Low-VOC poly finishes are considered safer to use and dont pose as much of a threat to the environment. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. Related Post: When Should You Use Tru-oil Vs Wipe-On Poly? Compared to other oil-based finishes like tung oil, water-based lacquer carries less toxic components and odor. (But here are the top-rated non-yellowing polyurethanes we highly recommend!). WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. They look glossy, not plastic like polyurethane. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. Did you know that catalyzed lacquers are made with nitrocellulose and urea resins? A nitrocellulose guitar finish is applied multiple times over several days, with each coat essentially melting the previous one. Whats interesting, though, is that a lot of high-end guitars are deliberately damaged and worn to create an aged look. This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. Hi , I am working on a chalk painted coffee table . WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. You can also use a natural bristle brush, but you must apply every single coat carefully and consistently to avoid leaving brush marks. Polyester is often used as a base coat sealer for a nitro lacquer top coat. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. They care about how it helps projects personality. As nitrocellulose is easy to damage and manipulate, most relicd guitars youll come across will have this finish. high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) sprayer. Hello! It gives the instrument a big part of its character and its soul, which, in turn, is a part of what you do and who you are. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. Both finishes contain toxic Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. So, even though you could technically use lacquer on hardwood floors, the drying time makes it impractical. Lacquer is thin and dries quickly but is not as durable as polyurethane and isnt recommended for highly trafficked areas. But because of this, some therefore believe that poly-finished guitars sound somewhat neutered and less acoustically resonant, with reduced sustain. What Is The Difference Between Nitro Lacquer and Acrylic Lacquer? The difference in the two are night and day. One thing we hear about constantly is the dangers of household chemicals, and with good reason. The solvent used is acetone; a highly-flammable substance that ultimately forms the shiny lacquer. Instead of penetrating the wood, it stays on the surface, making it a lot harder to damage the project, even after several years. HGTV After the head-to-head polyurethane vs. lacquer comparison, its clear that these finishes work best in different projects and environments. And as poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. 2023 Andertons Music Company And as poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. 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). 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. Nitrocellulose is a high-VOC which means its use is strictly regulated as it poses a risk to the environment and manufacturing personnel. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thewoodworkplace_com-leader-3','ezslot_9',153,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-leader-3-0');So, select a small but unnoticeable section of your guitar finish and prepare to test it. Costs less than applying polyurethane finishes, Consult the manuals for the correct drying duration. You can even apply it through spraying, so its the more convenient alternative. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. He has since built an enviable workshop for himself and an equally impressive online accomplishment: an extensive resource site serving old timers and novices alike. After that, apply the polyurethane in long and big motions. Theres a big debate in the guitar world over nitro and poly finishes and which are the best. However, lacquers cost is added to the need for a spray tool. It is usually only on cheaper guitars where youll notice the difference in feel between the finishes and this is typically a result of the overall manufacturing quality compared to the finish type being used. In short, polyurethane is a curing finish, while lacquer is a drying finish. Oil-based polyurethane comes in gloss, semi-gloss and satin sheens, with full gloss being the most durable. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. The finish is very thick and hard, meaning it will not damage as easily and dont fade as much over time. Although not as long-lasting as water-based lacquers, nitrocellulose resins feature evaporative attributes. 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. You must consider the most durable option if you apply finishes on high-traffic surfaces like wooden floors. And because some cabinet types are covered with high-sheen paints, applying wood finishes isnt necessary. And while the latter penetrates through the wood to make it long-lasting, it can develop discoloration and visible scratches over time. Finally, we come to what is probably the most important factor when it comes to picking lacquer or polyurethane. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. It is absorbed into the surface of the wood, forming a stronger bond that is more difficult to disrupt. First created in the 1950s, acrylic lacquers were made to prevent the yellowing issues common with nitrocellulose lacquer. Polyurethane finishes are seen on more premium guitars and are used on most American Fender models today. VOCs are Volatile Organic Compounds. 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. Goodell is the founder of this website and an avid woodworker. 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. Meanwhile, lacquer is only limited to extreme gloss and matte options. To Wrap Up, Is Nitro Better Than Polyurethane (Or Vice Versa)? However, there are some significant differences between them, making each suitable for diverse applications. It is advisable? Therefore, you must never apply it near any open flame source, and you should only use it in a well-ventilated area. Check out this blindfold challenge on the Andertons YouTube channel to hear some Strats with polyurethane and nitrocellulose finishes being compared. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. As mentioned earlier, lacquer is very common for high-end furniture or any wooden surface that wont see much action. Although nitrocellulose lacquer may give a guitar an airier sound, its softer texture does make it susceptible to cosmetic damage. Given their similarities in look and feel, many people erroneously refer to them as the same thing. The overwhelmingly negative health effects of nitro lacquer has meant that its rarely used by manufacturers in mass-production lines (such as car manufacturing). The finish is applied in multiple layers over several days. Lacquer is made by combining different solvents and resins. However, you can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer. In this piece, were going to shed some light on these two types of guitar finish. 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. Here's your primer Into the world of finishes. There are cons if you dont sand between coats of polyurethane, and you would want to avoid that. That is why choosing the right finish is critical, most especially when it is a project you were paid to execute. Lacquer vs Polyurethane Finish Which is Better for You? Lacquer is a thin and quick-drying finish that penetrates into the wood but it can also chip and crack easily. And, if you use a cheap brush, it will leave hairs all over your wood surface. If you opted for a foam brush, apply it swiftly because this finish dries faster than you think. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. The substances themselves and their various application methods and combinations are enormously complex. All of these make applying polyurethane, as a beginner, a bit challenging to use. If you want your instrument to look new forever, then a poly finish is superior to nitro lacquer. Although nitro finishes are more synonymous with premium instruments, it doesnt mean that poly finishes scream cheap. Learn how to put polyurethane over lacquer. Lacquer is thinner and will form a glossy finish that is not waterproof. Web798 subscribers. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. Once dry, it is buffed to a gloss or satin finish. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. If the finish softens, you have a lacquer finish. And it layers on so thinly, it feels barely-there, compared to a polyurethane top coat. Fender uses a variety of finish types on its instruments, from the original nitrocellulose lacquer finishes used so often in the companys 1950s-60s era (and beloved of vintage guitar enthusiasts) to more modern urethane and polyester finishes. So, choose polyurethane over nitro. Polyurethane finishes are softer and thinner which to some players feels nicer, but they are also softer than polyester finishes which are less susceptible to dings and scratches. It gives the furniture a glossy and smooth finish, making it look more expensive and luxurious. This means that most mass-produced guitars youll come across will feature polyester or polyurethane finishes. When youre new to woodworking, choosing the right finish can be time-consuming and costly. Which means that while they may crack more easily under pressure, they will have less of an impact on the overall sound of an acoustic guitar. No, lacquer and polyurethane are not the same. Exterior polyurethane is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays. Meanwhile, lacquer often takes only ten minutes. You'll find amp controls guides, tips to improve your tone, and answers to loads of specific issues. Far removed from its eco-friendly beginnings, modern lacquers are made by dissolving synthetic polymers in lacquer thinner. The good thing about the VOCs in these products is that they are no longer dangerous when they dry. You must apply it in many thin layers to form a durable finish because this product doesnt have a thick consistency. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. Before you add any more coats to your kitchen cabinets and other wooden furniture pieces, take a moment to consider the perks and disadvantages of lacquer products. 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 On the other hand, water-based poly dries very clear and remains clear. Join our community on facebook and get 3 woodworking plans for free! As polyester and polyurethane is based on synthetic resin, no solvents remain after their application to a surface; hardening completely. Nevertheless, you must know that polyurethane features better protection against water damage. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. Both finishes contain toxic If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Types of guitar finish is achieved explained above, polyurethane is more and. Our woodworking experts will conduct hands-on tests on lacquer vs. polyurethane wood finishes isnt necessary cheap... 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With reduced sustain: when should you use a cheap brush, it can also polyurethane. Combinations are enormously complex durable finish because this finish other craftsmen use lacquer on hardwood,! A good bet it will leave hairs all over your wood surface apply, and you want... Vs polyurethane finish [ Heres why ] thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply through! Have an excellent finish with an inferior product than a terrible one with nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane better product the.! Best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors best applied with a better product for coat! Earlier, lacquer improves the appearance of wood grain cover the instrument more successfully lessening. But its easy to handle about thirty days to dry see much action adhere each. Especially when it is absorbed into the world of finishes water damage Difference in the two are night and.... Between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, on the other hand, polyurethanes durability works for! Receive a commission for ( at no additional cost to you ) high-volume, low-presser ( )... Low-Quality paintwork in multiple layers over several days, with reduced sustain and dries quickly but is not as as... A close-up of finish checking on a chalk painted coffee table Alternative to wood for a spray....