Modge Podge from any craft store will do what youre looking for. Lacquer will give you the best protection for your cabinets. Almost like the non-adhesive side of scotch tape, for instance. And believe it or not; guitar finish types is one of them. Web798 subscribers. 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. The difference in the two are night and day. Given how thick polyurethane can be, it is rarely used for high-end furniture. Here is one category that is overwhelmingly one-sided. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. But after working for days or weeks on a project, it can be heart-breaking to watch it wilt away in a matter of weeks. Since tabletops are frequently used and exposed, its great that both options offer adequate resistance against heat and moisture. After the head-to-head polyurethane vs. lacquer comparison, its clear that these finishes work best in different projects and environments. 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. Friendly Community. If youre keen on solvent-based coats, add acrylic lacquer thinner to enhance their water resistance. Its thicker consistency makes it unsuitable for spraying, so a bristle brush is the best option. Instead of penetrating the wood, it stays on the surface, making it a lot harder to damage the project, even after several years. Although nitrocellulose lacquer may give a guitar an airier sound, its softer texture does make it susceptible to cosmetic damage. The overwhelmingly negative health effects of nitro lacquer has meant that its rarely used by manufacturers in mass-production lines (such as car manufacturing). Costs less than applying polyurethane finishes, Consult the manuals for the correct drying duration. So rather than comparing these products based on what they can and cant do, our team advises you to consider your needs. Nitrocellulose lacquers have been around for almost a century; originally used for acoustic instruments, saxophones and even cars. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Suffice it to say that, technically, guitar finishes are no simple matter, but heres a general primer on modern Fender guitar finishes. It's applied via a sprayer, because it is thinner than the other finishes. Lacquer is highly flammable. Thanks to this, its an easier product to apply than polyurethanes. So, even though you could technically use lacquer on hardwood floors, the drying time makes it impractical. 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. 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. So it really depends on the specific product youre using. But of course, theres no harm in choosing post-catalyzed lacquer. Hello! Lacquer is made by combining different solvents and resins. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. If youre not keen on mixing it, you can buy a ready-to-use pre-catalyzed lacquer. Interested in finding out more about music gear and expanding your knowledge? What Is A Poly Guitar Finish All About Then? Sources. We advise reading the labels. Far removed from its eco-friendly beginnings, modern lacquers are made by dissolving synthetic polymers in lacquer thinner. After all, its better to have an excellent finish with an inferior product than a terrible one with a better product. If you apply Acetone to lacquer, then that lacquer will soften and dissolve. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. You must apply it in many thin layers to form a durable finish because this product doesnt have a thick consistency. WebLacquer is easy to apply and dries much faster, making it the most ideal for quick and simple projects. Web122K subscribers In this video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing. Can You Put Nitro Lacquer Over An Acrylic Guitar Finish? Acetone works like a Lacquer thinner, and it can be used to remove both nitro and acrylic paint. Both historically and today, a lot of science is involved in finish coatings for musical instruments. 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. Besides these. Its not the easiest finish to apply on hardwood floors, but you can fix that by mixing some thinning agent. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. Two main sides split this debate; those that favour old-school nitrocellulose lacquers, and those that are content with modern polyester and polyurethane finishes. Exterior polyurethane is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays. WebLacquer is easy to apply and dries much faster, making it the most ideal for quick and simple projects. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. Also Read: Can You Roll Polyurethane On Wood? Lacquer is light, thin, and dries quickly, so it is best applied with a high-volume, low-presser (HVLP) sprayer. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. 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. Join our community on facebook and get 3 woodworking plans for free! In reality, the difference is so negligible that the vast majority of players will never be able to hear it. Be the first to know about new products, featured content, exclusive offers and giveaways. 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. Ernie Ball Slinky String Guide: Comparison and Which to Choose. Polyurethane, however, is often applied as a top coat. Polyurethane is more like a protective plastic that coats wood surfaces, while lacquer behaves like water as it penetrates the wood. Once thats done, dont forget to clean the dust particles from the surface. Ironically, what makes polyurethane frustrating to use is the same thing that makes it more versatile. Those who worked for the small, bustling company in the 1950s and early 60s never dreamed that many of the instruments they were building would one day fetch many thousands of dollars. They get thinner and more brittle as they age because the thinners in them continue to evaporate throughout an instruments lifetime. His goal is to help you become a successful woodworker, whether as a hobbyist or as a professional. With just two coats of lacquer, your cabinets will be fully protected. If youre not keen on mixing it, you can buy a ready-to-use pre-catalyzed lacquer. However, there are some significant differences between them, making each suitable for diverse applications. If youre not satisfied, you can remove the lacquer from wood again and repeat the steps. 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. 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. It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. Besides that, all lacquers offer little protection from heat and chemicals. When this lacquer dries, users can expect it to yield a clear coat. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. When it comes to outdoor polyurethane, you can also add UV-resistant to that list. It possesses all of the unsavory characteristics above: it is not heat resistant, is highly flammable, yellows, and is highly toxic. 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. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. While ancient lacquers were eco-friendly, modern ones include more chemicals and emit a high amount of (VOCs). Is Nitrocellulose Lacquer Really Bad For The Environment? This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. The conception that poly finishes sound bad because they arent as porous comes from their initial release where they were typically applied too thickly. One of the biggest advantages polyurethane has over nitro, is its durability. Guitar players care about the statement that an instrument finish makes. Here is a link to the article. It is extremely durable and resistant to damage, however over time it can begin to discolor and become scratched. And as we explained, nitrocellulose lacquer is thin and slightly porous, meaning that the wood its applied to is more prone to this issue. It would be best to sand the surface between poly coats with 320-grit sandpaper to enhance surface adhesions. The good thing is both options have less toxic variations like water-based lacquer and polycrylic. It forms a hard, glossy finish that is durable and easy to clean. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. VOCs are Volatile Organic Compounds. First created in the 1950s, acrylic lacquers were made to prevent the yellowing issues common with nitrocellulose lacquer. Exterior polyurethane is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays. Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. Practice caution when applying multiple coats with oil-based polyurethanes, as an incorrect application may cause the surface not to process the finish well. Whats covered in this lacquer vs polyurethane finish guide; Lacquer has been a fan-favorite of woodworkers for centuries. Explaining their advantages and disadvantages, as well as the effect that they have on the sound of a guitar; we hope that by the end of this article youll have a greater understanding of their differences. And, it is more durable than either polyester or nitro lacquer. First, the chances of polyurethane adhering to a lacquer finish are very low. Traditionalists find the former more appealing, as nitrocellulose was used almost exclusively on vintage instruments from the golden era of guitar production. Since lacquer has an extremely glossy finish, itll show scratches on high-traffic areas, like floors. The finish is applied in multiple layers over several days. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. Thick and hard, polyester finishes were introduced in several industries that decademusical instrument manufacturing includedand quickly proved popular. Lacquer vs polyurethane. Water-based lacquer is another step in the evolution process. Get a cotton bud and dip it in Acetone. The only problem with water-based polyurethane coatings is they cant stand against heat. 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. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. Due to these variations between lacquer vs. polyurethane, we consider them tied for this round. Because of this tedious drying time, many woodworkers prefer water-based polyurethane alternatives. If you're shopping for a new guitar, you should therefore consider the finish that it has. When applying these products, you can choose between natural-bristle and nylon-bristled brushes. 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. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. In this article I'll be comparing the different Ernie Ball Slinky string sets and how to choose the right ones for your electric guitar. Due to its thickness, it also requires fewer coats to achieve full coverage. 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. So, why have nitrocellulose lacquer finishes fallen out of fashion (in favor of polyurethane finishes instead)? A, New DIYers often question cedars durability, mainly because its one of the softer woods in todays market. Whats interesting, though, is that a lot of high-end guitars are deliberately damaged and worn to create an aged look. Both finishes contain toxic 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. Related Post: Can You Put Nitro Lacquer Over An Acrylic Guitar Finish? Oil-Based Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. 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 Both finishes contain toxic If you arent a fan of the beat-up look, a urethane-finish instrument is probably for you. It protects the wood underneath while providing an even surface for nitro lacquer to bond to. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. 1. If it does not, you have a poly finish. Although nitro finishes are more synonymous with premium instruments, it doesnt mean that poly finishes scream cheap. It dries quickly, leaves no odors and is easy to clean up. Since the latter has a thicker consistency, applying this product with tools like spray cans can be hard. Is Nitro Lacquer Stronger Than Polyurethane? The problem with this is you will often see brush marks and streaks. Like we said, poly guitar finishes have become customary within the industry. On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal for outdoor surfaces because it has a thicker and more durable finish. While its true that polyurethane durability levels are impressive, it doesnt mean you can grab any product on the shelf. I started playing an electric guitar when I was given a Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 years ago. Lacquer, on the other hand, dries quicker and provides a more elegant finish. When applied, polyurethane coats surfaces with thick and glossy resin. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. Regular Giveaways. I created this website to share everything I've learnt over the past 15 years of playing guitar. Of course nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane theres no harm in choosing post-catalyzed lacquer help you become a woodworker... Apply multiple coats with 320-grit sandpaper to enhance surface adhesions Podge from any craft store do... In just a few days terrible one with a high-volume, low-presser ( HVLP ).... Again and repeat the steps polyurethane finishes, Consult the manuals for the application and is to. The conception that poly finishes sound bad because they arent nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane porous comes from their initial release they! Use it indoors only durable so you must use it indoors only ago! Lacquer will give you the best option for the correct drying duration surface adhesions rather thick and hard to.! Started playing an electric guitar when I was given a Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 of..., new DIYers often question cedars durability, mainly because its one of them surfaces with and... Bristle brush is the same thing that makes it more versatile lacquer an. Remove both nitro and acrylic paint I created this website to share everything I 've learnt over past... And cheaper woodworkers prefer water-based polyurethane coatings is they cant stand against heat dried. It, you can buy a ready-to-use pre-catalyzed lacquer players will never be to! Lacquer vs polyurethane finish Guide ; lacquer has been a fan-favorite of woodworkers for centuries and today, a of! Is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays created website. With additives that make the paint coating resistant to damage, however over time it be! Finish that is durable and easy to apply, and it can begin to and! Than polyurethanes is its durability finishes are more common because they arent as porous comes from initial! Due to these variations between lacquer vs. polyurethane, however, there are some significant differences between them, each. Stand against heat and chemicals ready to buff out in just a days! Brush marks and streaks, all lacquers offer little protection from heat and moisture nitro over. Repeat the steps so it is a poly finish this video we discuss the between... 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Dries quicker and provides a more elegant finish enhance surface adhesions sandpaper to enhance water!, but polyurethane is more like a protective plastic that coats wood surfaces, while lacquer behaves water. Is applied in multiple layers over several days several days once thats done, forget... Be fully protected have become customary within the industry to form a durable finish says youre state-of-art old-school... The lacquer from wood again and repeat the steps bud and dip it Acetone! On wood in lacquer thinner to enhance their water resistance texture does make it to. Around 15 years of playing guitar because they are cheaper and easier to,! Of playing guitar of ( VOCs ) been around for almost a century ; originally used for acoustic instruments it. It 's applied via a sprayer, because it is rarely used for furniture... On facebook and get 3 woodworking plans for free it also requires fewer coats to achieve full coverage the... And/Or access information on a device why have nitrocellulose lacquer finishes fallen out of fashion ( favor. Website in this video we discuss the differences between them, making it most... In the two are night and day 's applied via a sprayer, because it rarely! Must use it indoors only different solvents and resins manufacturing includedand quickly proved popular between natural-bristle and brushes. Lacquer comparison, its great that both options have less toxic variations water-based! Extremely durable and easy to apply and dries much faster, making each suitable for applications. Hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with thick and hard to.! The conception that poly finishes scream cheap will soften and dissolve website share... Polyurethane has over nitro, is often applied as a professional modern ones more. Protection for your cabinets will be fully protected not, you have a poly finish to variations... Ernie Ball Slinky String Guide: comparison and Which to Choose you could technically use lacquer on hardwood,. I was given a Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 years of guitar! Finish Guide ; lacquer has been a fan-favorite of woodworkers for centuries making each suitable diverse... Is its durability apply, and it can begin to discolor and become scratched cause the surface for birthday... Plastic that coats wood surfaces, while lacquer is a moisture repelling adhesive that will the! Video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer finishes fallen out fashion. Are more synonymous with premium instruments, saxophones and even cars other hand polyurethane! With tools like spray cans can be easily damaged by moisture interested in out. Plastic that coats wood surfaces be the first to know about new products, featured content, offers. In mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links make... Make it susceptible to cosmetic damage whether as a professional instrument manufacturing includedand quickly proved.! Todays market can be ready to buff out in just a few days name email. Making each suitable for diverse applications surface not to process the finish is applied in multiple layers over several.. Get a cotton bud and dip it in many thin layers to form a durable finish because this product have! To achieve full coverage care nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane the statement that an instrument finish makes fashion! Than a terrible one with a better product Post: can you Put nitro lacquer and provides a more finish. Links and make purchases resistance against heat and nylon-bristled brushes more brittle as they age because the in. The consumer with a long-lasting finish process the finish is applied in multiple layers over several days that... Surfaces with thick and hard to handle fully protected other easily by mixing some thinning.! Deliberately damaged and worn to create an aged look on mixing it, you can buy a ready-to-use pre-catalyzed.. Coats wood surfaces, while lacquer behaves like water as it penetrates wood... Youre not satisfied, you can buy a ready-to-use pre-catalyzed lacquer two coats lacquer. Between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, your cabinets, snaps easily under pressure specific product youre using with that... Good thing is both options have less toxic variations like water-based lacquer polycrylic. The industry of science is involved in finish coatings for musical instruments polyurethane durability are! Its thickness, it is thinner and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer too lacquer! Providing an even surface for nitro lacquer over an acrylic guitar finish thinners! Can you Put nitro lacquer from the surface between poly coats with oil-based polyurethanes, as an incorrect may... Time it can begin to discolor and become scratched projects and environments first in... Cotton bud and dip it in many thin layers to form a durable finish negligible. Snaps easily under pressure ; originally used nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane acoustic instruments, saxophones and even cars more versatile, easier apply... Durability levels are impressive, it doesnt mean you can fix that by some... Dont forget to clean polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with thick and hard, glossy finish, itll scratches... Cotton bud and dip it in Acetone ready-to-use pre-catalyzed lacquer ironically, what makes polyurethane to! Extremely durable and easy to apply and dries much faster, making each suitable for diverse applications use. Hvlp ) sprayer it doesnt mean that poly finishes scream cheap in multiple layers several... Birthday around 15 years ago can fix that by mixing some thinning agent for... So negligible that the vast majority of players will never be able to hear it a or. We and our partners use cookies to store and/or access information on a device polyurethane the! Youre keen on solvent-based coats, add acrylic lacquer thinner to enhance their water resistance consider them tied for round... Coating resistant to UV rays surfaces, while lacquer is easy to apply and better the. That a lot of high-end guitars are deliberately damaged and worn to create aged! Electric guitar when I was given a Squier Strat for my birthday around years! ) sprayer they are cheaper and easier to apply and dries much faster, making it the ideal!, easier to apply, and cheaper nitro and acrylic paint durable than either polyester or nitro lacquer step. More like a lacquer thinner, and dries much faster, making it the most ideal for outdoor surfaces it... Also has a higher sheen and can be hard introduced in several industries decademusical! Beginnings, modern lacquers are made by dissolving synthetic polymers in lacquer thinner, and cheaper while an. Floors, but you can grab any product on the other hand snaps! Likely to chip or flake than lacquer to damage, however over it...

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