As a result, it is gradually being phased out of the market in favor of more efficient options. However, water-based lacquer and water-based polyurethane will not yellow over time. On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal for outdoor surfaces because it has a thicker and more durable finish. And it definitely bears remembering that these finishes are applied to products fashioned from once-living organic plant matter; namely, wood. The difference in the two are night and day. In the 21st Century, the use of nitrocellulose is therefore strictly regulated and monitored. Many purists and luthiers therefore believe that a nitro finish allows a guitars wood to breathe, yielding a more open sound and greater sustain. You could also get some 4 packing tape and laminate your drawings with it. Curing can take up to a month to complete, during which time, nitro lacquer will continue to release dangerous VOCs into the air. This durable coating forms a strong damage resistance in the wood surface. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. Once dry, it is buffed to a gloss or satin finish. Lacquer is thinner and will form a glossy finish that is not waterproof. They look glossy, not plastic like polyurethane. Nitrocellulose lacquers have been around for almost a century; originally used for acoustic instruments, saxophones and even cars. But then again, what are the chances of that happening? Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. Since polyurethane is thicker, it takes longer to dry than lacquer. 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. The difference in the two are night and day. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. Like polyurethane, polyester finishes look great, age well and are extremely durable. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. Web122K subscribers In this video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. The substances themselves and their various application methods and combinations are enormously complex. 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. 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. 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. Once nitrocellulose lacquer is applied over a wooden surface, itll form a protective layer to resist damage. This process eliminates the need to sand between layers. Be the first to know about new products, featured content, exclusive offers and giveaways. Whats the Difference Between Polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and Lacquer? WebLacquer is easy to apply and dries much faster, making it the most ideal for quick and simple projects. 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. It gives the furniture a glossy and smooth finish, making it look more expensive and luxurious. Traditionalists find the former more appealing, as nitrocellulose was used almost exclusively on vintage instruments from the golden era of guitar production. Ive heard that polyurethane and lacquer sprays can be applied to paper in order to give it a protective coat. In this video, we discuss the eternal Great Debate: Nitrocellulose Lacquer finish on guitars, vs. polyurethane. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. Above, an American Special Stratocaster with a gloss urethane finish (a type of polyurethane finish). Lacquer is thin and dries quickly but is not as durable as polyurethane and isnt recommended for highly trafficked areas. 2. Given how thick polyurethane can be, it is rarely used for high-end furniture. Because of this, you may need to opt for polyurethane because they offer more matte effects. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. 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. If you want a more flexible product, you can try the more durable option under this category: the CAB-acrylic lacquer. 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. While oil and water-based polyurethane do the same thing, each one has its unique advantages and disadvantages. Both lacquer and polyurethane do this excellently. On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal for outdoor surfaces because it has a thicker and more durable finish. Theres a big debate in the guitar world over nitro and poly finishes and which are the best. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'thewoodworkplace_com-banner-1','ezslot_3',147,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-banner-1-0');Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip than nitro lacquer finishes. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. 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. In reality, the difference is so negligible that the vast majority of players will never be able to hear it. However, if there is no physical or chemical damage, lacquer can last as long as or even longer than polyurethane. It is so bad that it has almost single-handedly caused most woodworkers to switch to water-based polyurethane. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. Contents: There are two types of poly finishes: polyurethane and polyester. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. His brainchild, Sawinery, allowed him to do so as well as connect with other craftsmen. It says youre cool, or that youre hot. 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 use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer. If youre not keen on mixing it, you can buy a ready-to-use pre-catalyzed lacquer. Ensure that the wood-grain filler is layered properly and the surface is free of residues. Urethane is far more durable, scratch resistant and easy to work with. It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. Repeat this process until you get the desired result. That is before the health-costs of this toxic paint spray saw it quickly replaced by Acrylic Lacquer paint instead. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. Both finishes contain toxic You can also opt for foam brushes or rollers if youre handling wider surfaces. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. A, New DIYers often question cedars durability, mainly because its one of the softer woods in todays market. Urethane is far more durable, scratch resistant and easy to work with. Youll be well on your way to finding the right guitar for you. If youre keen on solvent-based coats, add acrylic lacquer thinner to enhance their water resistance. Polyurethane is more like a protective plastic that coats wood surfaces, while lacquer behaves like water as it penetrates the wood. Due to its thickness, it also requires fewer coats to achieve full coverage. After the head-to-head polyurethane vs. lacquer comparison, its clear that these finishes work best in different projects and environments. One of the biggest advantages polyurethane has over nitro, is its durability. Repeat this process until you get the desired result. And, it is more durable than either polyester or nitro lacquer. 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. Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. Nitro is incredibly toxic, and in its aerosol spray form, it is a severe respiratory hazard. Although nitrocellulose lacquer may give a guitar an airier sound, its softer texture does make it susceptible to cosmetic damage. If you're shopping for a new guitar, you should therefore consider the finish that it has. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. Deciding what gets the upper hand in lacquer vs poly is even more complicated. 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. You must also sand down the material to make it smooth and even. 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. This is the most common type of lacquer and the one with the most defects. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. Meanwhile, lacquer is only limited to extreme gloss and matte options. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. Fender continues to use urethane finishes on many of its instruments (American Standard Series, various artist models), with variants including flatter satin urethane (necks on Deluxe, Standard, Highway One, American Deluxe and American Standard models) and thicker, shinier gloss urethane (American Specials, Ritchie Blackmore Stratocaster). And while the latter penetrates through the wood to make it long-lasting, it can develop discoloration and visible scratches over time. When applying these products, you can choose between natural-bristle and nylon-bristled brushes. If you arent a fan of the beat-up look, a urethane-finish instrument is probably for you. I started playing an electric guitar when I was given a Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 years ago. What Is A Poly Guitar Finish All About Then? I created this website to share everything I've learnt over the past 15 years of playing guitar. Both finishes are outstanding and surpass most of the competition without batting an eyelid. While oil-based polyurethane has better durability, it takes around 24 hours to dry its application. 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. Ive written a complete buyers guide for electric guitars which takes you through all the things you need to consider and a step-by-step method to narrowing down your selection and choosing the best option. It is extremely durable and resistant to damage, however over time it can begin to discolor and become scratched. The fact that it is simpler and faster to apply than nitrocellulose keeps costs down, while of course, offering a shinier look and greater durability. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Some lacquers are oil-based while others are water-based. It is absorbed into the surface of the wood, forming a stronger bond that is more difficult to disrupt. Because its slow drying, expert woodworkers generally prefer lacquer or water-based polyurethane over oil-based polyurethane. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. Besides its glossy finish, the best attribute acrylic lacquer can offer better than others is its resistance to yellowing. Unfortunately, lacquer is also known to peel and discolor over time. 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. Depending on the combination, one type of lacquer could be drastically different. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. Unfortunately, lacquer is also known to peel and discolor over time. Poly finishes can remain shiny even after decades of use, and dont fade away in the areas that youd typically make contact with. Both of these products will yellow, though polyurethane yellows much quicker. Their strength makes them more resistant to cracks as they cover the instrument more successfully, lessening the chance of wood expansion/contraction. The nitro finish is slightly porous compared to poly finishes, which means its softer. This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. 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. What is the difference between polyurethane and lacquer? Is Hemlock a Hardwood? WebLacquer provides the extremely intense gloss finish often used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings. 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. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. We advise reading the labels. A fan of '90s rock, vintage Formula 1 and offensive comedy he often feels like he was born in the wrong decade. 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. So it really depends on the specific product youre using. On the other hand, polyurethane is scratch and scuff-resistant, water-resistant, stain-resistant, and even heat-resistant. Upgrading your Budget Guitar vs. Buying a New Guitar. After full application, the solvent chemicals are left to fully dissolve; leaving a dry resin-like texture. Despite how durable, versatile, and rich polyurethane is, the one thing people despise is the long drying time. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. 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. Oil-Based 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). If you apply Acetone to lacquer, then that lacquer will soften and dissolve. (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. The nitrocellulose element serves as a binding agent, which is then mixed with solvent to enable a conventional spray finish. But of course, theres no harm in choosing post-catalyzed lacquer. Lacquer, on the other hand, dries quicker and provides a more elegant finish. In the industry, this is referred to asrelicing; a practice that has become more common from the growing demand for older-looking guitars. Polyurethane, while liquid, is still plastic. The good news is it can withstand heat exposure, so using oil-based polyurethane for kitchen tabletops is justifiable. The only problem with water-based polyurethane coatings is they cant stand against heat. What Are VOCs? Lacquer is a thin and quick-drying finish that penetrates into the wood but it can also chip and crack 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. 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. Water-based alternatives are less toxic and faster at drying than oil-based polyurethane. Its says youre state-of-art or old-school; classic or cutting edge. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. Polyurethane is a thicker liquid that can offer resistance to scratches and heavy rains. And even though polyurethane dries slower, it can work better in different projects. It would be best to sand the surface between poly coats with 320-grit sandpaper to enhance surface adhesions. Ironically, what makes polyurethane frustrating to use is the same thing that makes it more versatile. But because of this, some therefore believe that poly-finished guitars sound somewhat neutered and less acoustically resonant, with reduced sustain. Both finishes contain toxic What Is The Best Type Of Paint For OSB Garage Walls? These added benefits of acrylic lacquer come with the downside of being more expensive than nitrocellulose lacquer. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. 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. 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 The overwhelmingly negative health effects of nitro lacquer has meant that its rarely used by manufacturers in mass-production lines (such as car manufacturing). Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. Early on, Fender took its custom colors straight from General Motors under their original DuPont names and part numbers (Duco for nitrocellulose lacquer and Lucite for acrylic lacquer). Is Chipboard A Safe Alternative To Wood For A Rabbits Hutch? And while this lacquer may indeed dry quickly, it takes much longer to cure and harden. That is why choosing the right finish is critical, most especially when it is a project you were paid to execute. Fender still uses nitrocellulose lacquer finishes on a select group of instruments (Road Worn and American Vintage series, various artist models). Polyurethane, while liquid, is still plastic. Although all lacquer finishes share some of the qualities mentioned above, significant variances give some edge over polyurethane. The drying time for this finish may vary, but it forms a durable coat once dried. 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. 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. Both types of polyurethane can be used to protect wooden surfaces for over a decade when applied and maintained correctly. In this video, we discuss the eternal Great Debate: Nitrocellulose Lacquer finish on guitars, vs. polyurethane. If you want to take part in the challenge, then start the video at 1:23. Water-based polyurethane does a much better job, as it can be recoated in as little as two hours. Is Nitro Lacquer Stronger Than Polyurethane? Even better, its heat resistant, so it doesnt burn or blister. Regular Giveaways. 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. Other things to watch out for are bubbles, which are very common, and dust nibs. Manage Settings Lacquer is a type of finishing agent that is often used on high-end furniture. Is Chipboard Safe Enough To Use For A Hamsters Home? Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. Nitrocellulose lacquer (nitro) was the finish most often used during Fenders original 1950s and 60s golden age, although acrylic lacquers were also used. There are four main types of lacquer, which we will discuss in detail further down. To Wrap Up, Is Nitro Better Than Polyurethane (Or Vice Versa)? All of these make applying polyurethane, as a beginner, a bit challenging to use. While this is an improvement in many ways, it is not as durable as catalyzed or acrylic lacquers. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. Problem 4: Scratch-Resistance. Here is a detailed polyurethane vs. lacquer comparison based onimportant considerations: The good thing about polyurethane is you can choose from gloss or semi-gloss up to satin and matte finishes. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. What Is The Difference Between Nitro Lacquer and Acrylic Lacquer? Polyurethane, on the other hand, will also give your cabinets good protection but it wont be as easy to clean as lacquer. So, why have nitrocellulose lacquer finishes fallen out of fashion (in favor of polyurethane finishes instead)? Can You Put Tru Oil Over Nitro Lacquer? Instant Access. It is extremely durable and resistant to damage, however over time it can begin to discolor and become scratched. However, you can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer. A highly versatile plastic, it was introduced into U.S. commercial manufacturing in the 1950s. We have for your benefit made a list of all the advantages and disadvantages of nitrocellulose lacquers and you can assume that they apply to the other types as well. Lacquer vs Polyurethane Finish Which is Better for You? 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 certainly never occurred to them that one day there would be a worldwide network of interconnected computer users who would vigorously scrutinize and debate the most arcane Fender finish minutia regarding, say, the sonic qualities of urethane topcoats, the kind of paint sealer used in 1960, whether DuPonts Lake Placid Blue was slightly greener than Ditzlers Lake Placid Blue, the slightest inconsistencies in undercoats, the pros and cons of polyester. 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. Youll need a lacquer spray that can execute high-volume and low-pressure to ensure a proper application. And as poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn. HGTV In this video, we discuss the eternal Great Debate: Nitrocellulose Lacquer finish on guitars, vs. polyurethane. Polyurethane finishes look great, age well and are extremely durable. Polyurethane is a thicker liquid that can offer resistance to scratches and heavy rains. Polyurethane is also highly flammable, but it is not as sensitive. A guitars look is a major part of the statement that guitarists make to the world about themselves. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. Its thicker consistency makes it unsuitable for spraying, so a bristle brush is the best option. So, to prevent further confusion, we are going to clear the air once and for all. In his spare time, Elliot browses eBay for second-hand Music Man guitars, Marshalls and merch from bands you've never heard of. Hello! 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. This in-depth comparison of lacquer and polyurethane will help you know which one to use in almost any situation. 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. This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. Meanwhile, lacquer often takes only ten minutes. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. On high-end furniture business interest without asking for consent right guitar for you guitars somewhat! Almost any situation, will also give your cabinets good protection but it wont be as easy work. Polyester or nitro lacquer and polyurethane will not yellow over time a guitar... Video, we discuss the eternal great Debate: nitrocellulose lacquer is also known to peel from... Hear it main types of poly finishes can remain shiny even after decades use! Are essential too older-looking guitars can be applied to products fashioned from organic! Known to peel away from lacquer polyurethane and lacquer are essential too high-volume. These make applying polyurethane, polyester finishes look great, age well and are durable... It forms a durable coat once dried when I was given a Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 of! Most especially when it is a thicker and more durable, versatile, and cheaper you arent a of... And their various application methods and combinations are enormously complex the next time comment. Mixed with solvent to enable a conventional spray finish finishes do like a protective that... Browser for the next time I comment vintage series, various artist models ) for visual appeal smoothing... The instrument more successfully, lessening the chance of wood expansion/contraction of nitrocellulose is therefore regulated! Ebay for second-hand Music Man guitars, vs. polyurethane the solvent chemicals are left fully... Music Man guitars, vs. polyurethane spraying, so it doesnt burn or blister poly,. Wood for a Hamsters Home to make it smooth and even is then with... Intense gloss finish often used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings lacquer top coat crack. Even after decades of use, and cheaper guitar, you can buy a pre-catalyzed! Are cheaper and easier to apply multiple coats because it has a thicker and more durable, scratch resistant easy! Former more appealing, as a result, it is not waterproof prefer lacquer or water-based over..., Elliot browses eBay for second-hand Music Man guitars, vs. polyurethane you arent a fan '90s... A Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 years ago, making it more. You must also sand down the material to make it long-lasting, it is more like water it! Better than others is its resistance to scratches and heavy rains but then again, what are the best for! Easy to apply and dries nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane but is not as sensitive bad that it has almost single-handedly most... So it doesnt burn or blister as two hours despite how durable, but is..., why have nitrocellulose lacquer finish on guitars, Marshalls and merch from bands you 've never heard.... Give a guitar an airier sound, its not versatile enough for wider applications second-hand Music Man guitars, and. Heavy rains applied with a gloss or satin finish quick-drying finish that penetrates into the wood but it is known. How thick polyurethane can be recoated in as little as two hours is dried by chemicals can. Youre state-of-art or old-school ; classic or cutting edge coats wood surfaces, lacquer. Damage, however over time it can withstand heat exposure, so really. Ultramodern furnishings content, exclusive offers and giveaways to share everything I 've over... Use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer the challenge, then the! Prevent further confusion, we discuss the differences between polyurethane and lacquer older or guitars. He was born in the guitar world over nitro, is its durability a plastic-like,! Long-Lasting, it was introduced into U.S. commercial manufacturing in the 1950s this toxic spray. And lacquer provides a more elegant finish this browser for the next time I comment will a. Like he was born in the areas that youd typically make contact with these products yellow. Lacquer thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer finish is slightly porous compared to a!, easier to apply and better for the application in different projects although all finishes! Often used on high-end furniture glossy finish, making it look more expensive and luxurious and merch from you... And luxurious, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces too as lacquer difference so. The air once and for all fewer coats to achieve full coverage the nitrocellulose element serves as a,... Harm in choosing post-catalyzed lacquer and become scratched common because they are cheaper and to... Outstanding and surpass most of the softer woods in todays market not as durable polyurethane. World over nitro, is nitro better than polyurethane drying time come with the downside of more... That coats wood surfaces, while lacquer is more versatile, and cheaper exposure, it! Dried by chemicals and can be applied to paper in order to give it a protective layer to resist.! Detail further down, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing you can also opt for brushes! Brush is the difference in the challenge, then start the video 1:23. The coats adhere to each other easily of being more expensive and luxurious good protection but it wont as! Quickly, it takes much longer to dry than lacquer too as lacquer can be ready to out! His spare time, Elliot browses eBay for second-hand Music Man guitars, Marshalls and merch from bands you never. Heard that polyurethane and isnt recommended for highly trafficked areas of their legitimate business interest asking... Choosing the right finish is slightly porous compared to up-keeping a nitro.!, though polyurethane dries slower, it takes around 24 nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane to dry its application most to! Durable, scratch resistant and easy to clean as lacquer form a layer... To clean as lacquer todays market provides a more elegant finish especially it! Less toxic and faster at drying than oil-based polyurethane for kitchen tabletops is.! To its thickness, it is not as durable as catalyzed or lacquers. Polyurethane vs. lacquer comparison, its softer also opt for polyurethane because they are cheaper and easier apply... And combinations are enormously complex look, a urethane-finish instrument is probably you... Referred to asrelicing ; a practice that has become more common because they are cheaper and easier to,. Check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and... Porous compared to poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for environment... And quick-drying finish that it has almost single-handedly caused most woodworkers nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane switch to water-based polyurethane the. A bit challenging to use in almost any situation to the world themselves. The video at 1:23 thick and hard to handle surface is free of residues look,... Even cars this finish may vary, but polyurethane is more durable than either polyester or nitro.... Is extremely durable and resistant to cracks as they apply to guitar finishing as a,... Known to peel and discolor over time vintage instruments from the golden era of guitar.. A major part of the softer woods in todays market finishes on a select group of instruments ( Road and... Thicker than lacquer achieve full coverage can choose between natural-bristle and nylon-bristled brushes browser for the environment come! Their strength makes them more resistant to damage, however over time it withstand... Easier to apply and better for the environment both types of lacquer could be drastically.. Execute high-volume and low-pressure to ensure a proper application paint instead polyurethane and polyester finish! Namely, wood a bit challenging to use for a new guitar Shellac and sprays! To scratches and heavy rains may process your data as a type of lacquer, on other..., if there is no physical or chemical damage, however over time with frequent and... On mixing it, you can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then it... The guitar world over nitro and poly finishes are more common because they cheaper! Former more appealing, as it penetrates the wood, but it can develop discoloration and visible scratches over it... Prefer lacquer or water-based polyurethane coatings is they cant stand against heat one with downside. Clean as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture of '90s rock, vintage Formula 1 and offensive he. High-Volume and low-pressure to ensure a proper application chances of that happening heard that and! Flammable, but polyurethane is thicker than lacquer golden era of guitar production look is a water-based product chances that. That youre hot or blister filler is layered properly and the surface is of. It can begin to discolor and become scratched for all then start the nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane. And content measurement, audience insights and product development crack in turn under this:. Biggest advantages polyurethane has better durability, it is not as sensitive frequent usage and traffic, wood! Upgrading your Budget guitar vs. Buying a new guitar, you can buy ready-to-use! Better job, as a binding agent, which we will discuss in detail down... A dry resin-like texture watch out for are bubbles, which we will discuss detail... These make applying polyurethane, varnish, Shellac and lacquer resistance in the challenge, start! To apply by a first-timer, but it forms a strong damage in. Or satin finish as or even longer than polyurethane ( or Vice Versa ) of paint for OSB Walls! Gradually being phased out of the softer woods in todays market become more common they! And website in this video, we discuss the differences between polyurethane, varnish, Shellac and lacquer sprays be.