nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane

Read next!). As these departments mostly produce premium time-honoured instruments, they therefore use nitro finishes to recapture the essence of their older vintage models. 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. If you buy something through our posts, we may get a small commission. 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. 3. And because some cabinet types are covered with high-sheen paints, applying wood finishes isnt necessary. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. Due to these variations between lacquer vs. polyurethane, we consider them tied for this round. 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. This requirement eventually adds up to its cost, instead of the cheaper option of brushing lacquer on wood surfaces. 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. Therefore, you must never apply it near any open flame source, and you should only use it in a well-ventilated area. Here's your primer Into the world of finishes. Depends on what youre looking for in a finish. Manage Settings Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. Once refined, these products offer a glossy and extremely durable finish. Privacy Policy. Lacquer is a thin and quick-drying finish that penetrates into the wood but it can also chip and crack easily. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. Besides its glossy finish, the best attribute acrylic lacquer can offer better than others is its resistance to yellowing. When you pick wood of a specific color, you want to be sure that itll still look good 5 to 10 years down the line. They look glossy, not plastic like polyurethane. 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. Polyurethane is available in water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based. 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. Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. And it definitely bears remembering that these finishes are applied to products fashioned from once-living organic plant matter; namely, wood. 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. 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. In determining the winner of the duel lacquer versus polyurethane, there isnt just one answer. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. One significant advantage of poly finishes is their durability. Thick and hard, polyester finishes were introduced in several industries that decademusical instrument manufacturing includedand quickly proved popular. Lacquer vs polyurethane. Because of this, you can count on lacquer finishes to make workpieces last a long time. 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. However, both nitro and poly finishes are in fact plastic. Despite the advancements in durability, it will still yellow over time, and the VOC count is still high. Polyester and polyurethane guitar finishes are also more resistant to general wear, meaning that scratches and dings are harder to see and inflict. Both finishes contain toxic Both finishes are outstanding and surpass most of the competition without batting an eyelid. Lacquer, on the other hand, dries quicker and provides a more elegant finish. 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. Dont spray it too much, and ensure youre in a well-ventilated area. The difference in the two are night and day. Lacquer and polyurethane emit high quantities of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them unsafe for people with breathing difficulties. Compared to other oil-based finishes like tung oil, water-based lacquer carries less toxic components and odor. Urethane is far more durable, scratch resistant and easy to work with. There are cons, Time Limited: Join our woodworking contest on Facebook and Get 3 Free Woodworking Plans Instantly. Polyurethane finishes look great, age well and are extremely durable. 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. There's a definite price Hey, welcome Pro Sound HQ. And, it is more durable than either polyester or nitro lacquer. And even though polyurethane dries slower, it can work better in different projects. Nitro lacquers are also typically used on more expensive guitars as the application process is time-consuming and requires several layers. The only problem with water-based polyurethane coatings is they cant stand against heat. And if a thin finish is what you are looking for, then polyurethane can be thinned out using mineral spirits or you can use an already thinned wipe-on poly product instead. Given the many things polyurethane protects your wood from, it is not surprising that it can handle more abuse than lacquer. Web798 subscribers. It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. It depends on the type of lacquer finish youll use. If youre not keen on mixing it, you can buy a ready-to-use pre-catalyzed lacquer. Polyurethane coat needs sanding for multiple coats. Hello! The finish is applied in multiple layers over several days. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. This is the most common type of lacquer and the one with the most defects. This wasnt just to do with the physical problems that came with nitro, but rather the environmental damage that a high-VOC (volatile organic compound) such as nitrocellulose could cause. However, if there is no physical or chemical damage, lacquer can last as long as or even longer than polyurethane. That is before the health-costs of this toxic paint spray saw it quickly replaced by Acrylic Lacquer paint instead. Thanks to this, its an easier product to apply than polyurethanes. On the other hand, polyurethane is thick, so it is best to apply it with a brush. These are the gases found in solvent-based chemicals. Both products have varying price ranges, depending on the brand, quality, and other factors. In the market for a new guitar? The only downside of this option is its more expensive. 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. Besides the invisible threat, there is the issue of flammability. What is the Difference Between Spar urethane and Polyurethane. 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 A, New DIYers often question cedars durability, mainly because its one of the softer woods in todays market. We advise reading the labels. 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. Also Read: Can You Roll Polyurethane On Wood? Water-based alternatives are less toxic and faster at drying than oil-based polyurethane. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. A Fender Custom Shop 1963 Stratocaster Relic (above) shows the kind of wear typically associated with a nitrocellulose lacquer finish, which this instrument has. 2. Lacquer is thinner and will form a glossy finish that is not waterproof. So, why have nitrocellulose lacquer finishes fallen out of fashion (in favor of polyurethane finishes instead)? Meanwhile, lacquer often takes only ten minutes. It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. Thanks for visiting! Lacquer provides a high gloss finish to your wood furniture or floors. However, lacquers cost is added to the need for a spray tool. Web122K subscribers In this video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. Polyurethane, while liquid, is still plastic. These characteristics actually hold special appeal for many guitarists, as the cracking, yellowing, checking and aging common to this finish type are exactly what many aficionados love about nitro. If youre not satisfied, you can remove the lacquer from wood again and repeat the steps. When this lacquer dries, users can expect it to yield a clear coat. You must consider these perks and drawbacks to determine if its worth your money. To combat these problems, manufacturers have developed water-based lacquer and water-based polyurethane. Almost like the non-adhesive side of scotch tape, for instance. 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). Wonder why it's so smooth? 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. 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. Lacquer is a classic choice for furniture and cabinets, and it has a beautiful, glossy sheen. While its true that polyurethane durability levels are impressive, it doesnt mean you can grab any product on the shelf. However, water-based poly is less durable than oil-based ones. What Is A Poly Guitar Finish All About Then? 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. This process eliminates the need to sand between layers. To Wrap Up, Is Nitro Better Than Polyurethane (Or Vice Versa)? An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Polyurethane is available in water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based. Upgrading your Budget Guitar vs. Buying a New Guitar. 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. Polyurethane coat needs sanding for multiple coats. A high build lacquer spray or polyurethane spray like rust oleum? 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. There are two types of poly finishes: polyurethane and polyester. 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. As solvents dry and cure, these often times harmful gases are released into the air. In this article Ill be comparing nitrocellulose, polyurethane and polyester finishes and discussing the pros and cons of each type. The chief advantage of polyester is that it makes for a colorful and extremely tough, durable finish. If you opted for a foam brush, apply it swiftly because this finish dries faster than you think. Its also quite durable and easy to clean. A nitrocellulose guitar finish is applied multiple times over several days, with each coat essentially melting the previous one. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. 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. Unfortunately, neither polyurethane nor lacquer stands the test of time. As a result, it is gradually being phased out of the market in favor of more efficient options. This is then hand-buffed and sanded until a glossy finish is achieved. How Hard is this Wood. 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. Polyester is often used as a base coat sealer for a nitro lacquer top coat. Nitrocellulose also yellows with time, especially when exposed to excessive sunlight. 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. 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. 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. However, you can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer. Other things to watch out for are bubbles, which are very common, and dust nibs. Above, an American Special Stratocaster with a gloss urethane finish (a type of polyurethane finish). These days, this type of guitar finish is used almost exclusively by Gibson and Fenders Custom Shop divisions. Instead of penetrating the wood, it stays on the surface, making it a lot harder to damage the project, even after several years. Related Post: When Should You Use Tru-oil Vs Wipe-On Poly? The lacquer is compromised of nitrocellulose and solvents which ensures it is the appropriate consistency to spray onto the wood. 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. Here is a link to the article. The purpose of a guitar's finish goes beyond just its aesthetic value. Before proceeding with the application, ensure that you wear the right protective gear to stay safe from harmful fumes. Polyurethane does not have that problem. 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. It protects the wood underneath while providing an even surface for nitro lacquer to bond to. Recommended Reading: Shellac vs polyurethane. Finally, we come to what is probably the most important factor when it comes to picking lacquer or polyurethane. Aside from this, poly finishes are less likely to get scratched and chipped. 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. The overwhelmingly negative health effects of nitro lacquer has meant that its rarely used by manufacturers in mass-production lines (such as car manufacturing). In reality, the difference is so negligible that the vast majority of players will never be able to hear it. Goodell has been in love with woodworking for more than two decades. Unfortunately, lacquer is also known to peel and discolor over time. Urethane is far more durable, scratch resistant and easy to work with. Polyurethane, however, is often applied as a top coat. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. Most woodworkers would tell you lacquer is most effective when used as a wood furniture finish. Problem 4: Scratch-Resistance. Related Post: Can You Put Nitro Lacquer Over An Acrylic Guitar Finish? The substances themselves and their various application methods and combinations are enormously complex. Lacquer is light, thin, and dries quickly, so it is best applied with a high-volume, low-presser (HVLP) sprayer. Its not the easiest finish to apply on hardwood floors, but you can fix that by mixing some thinning agent. We are an independent website with woodworking experts sharing the best tips and tricks when it comes to tools, plans, classes, and any need of a beginner or professional woodworker. Thats because, while this finish can yellow with age, it doesnt leave your guitar looking dated. Urethane is far more durable, scratch resistant and easy to work with. Lacquer, on the other hand, dries quicker and provides a more elegant finish. They care about how it affects an instruments tone, feel, look and value over time. They must also be carefully hand-buffed and sanded at the final stage to ensure a consistent, professional quality. Choosing the right wood finish is a decision you cant escape when polishing wooden surfaces. It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. Nitro finishes are more time-consuming and labour intensive to apply. Another problem when applying polyurethane is the need to sand between coats. Given how thick polyurethane can be, it is rarely used for high-end furniture. Whether youre refinishing a cherished antique or sprucing up a DIY project, achieving a smooth, durable finish is paramount to showcasing your woods beauty. I created this website to share everything I've learnt over the past 15 years of playing guitar. Web122K subscribers In this video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing. 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. Regular Giveaways. Whats covered in this lacquer vs polyurethane finish guide; Lacquer has been a fan-favorite of woodworkers for centuries. While lacquer can also be applied with other tools, that is only recommended for much smaller jobs when hiring or buying a sprayer is impractical. WebPolyurethane guitar finishes are more durable and less susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes. Meanwhile, lacquer is only limited to extreme gloss and matte options. When it comes to outdoor polyurethane, you can also add UV-resistant to that list. Oil-based polyurethane comes in gloss, semi-gloss and satin sheens, with full gloss being the most durable. Read: What is the Difference Between Spar urethane and Polyurethane. Oil-Based However, water-based lacquer and water-based polyurethane will not yellow over time. Sources. However, manufacturers are increasingly making the less toxic, water-based lacquers, although there is some debate about whether they should be classified as true lacquers. Nitro needs to air dry to release its solvent and its usually a good bet it will take about thirty days to dry. Once thats done, dont forget to clean the dust particles from the surface. 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. Lacquer vs polyurethane. But of course, theres no harm in choosing post-catalyzed lacquer. The difference in the two are night and day. Since it cannot withstand high temperatures, it is ideal for interior use only. Polyurethane is more like a protective plastic that coats wood surfaces, while lacquer behaves like water as it penetrates the wood. Polyester guitar finishes age and weather especially well and are seemingly immune to climate and injurythey are highly resistant to scratching and checking, and colors remain remarkably pristine. Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. Depending on the combination, one type of lacquer could be drastically different. Is Chipboard Safe Enough For A Guinea Pigs Home? When applied, polyurethane coats surfaces with thick and glossy resin. In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. For novice, pro and collector alike, there is no visual element of a guitar more important than its finish. Nitrocellulose finishes are thinner and softer than poly finishes which means nitro finishes are often referred to as more breathable. Although not as long-lasting as water-based lacquers, nitrocellulose resins feature evaporative attributes. When youre new to woodworking, choosing the right finish can be time-consuming and costly. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. Typically applied via aerosol spray onto guitars and saxophones, nitro used to be employed widely in automobile manufacturing too. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. Another factor to consider is the size of the project. Youll be well on your way to finding the right guitar for you. This occurs when a guitar is regularly exposed to differing temperatures, as changes in climate causes wood to expand and contract. 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. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. It is extremely durable and resistant to damage, however over time it can begin to discolor and become scratched. Practice caution when applying multiple coats with oil-based polyurethanes, as an incorrect application may cause the surface not to process the finish well. (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. I started playing an electric guitar when I was given a Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 years ago. On mixing it, you can buy a ready-to-use pre-catalyzed lacquer lacquer too as can. Course, theres no harm in choosing post-catalyzed lacquer love with woodworking for more than two.... Acrylic, nitrocellulose resins feature evaporative attributes but its easy to work.... Or even longer than polyurethane reduce the thickness and then apply it with a gloss urethane finish a., users can expect it to yield a clear coat extremely durable it with a gloss finish... Product to apply because some cabinet types are covered with high-sheen paints, wood! It will still yellow over time, and it definitely bears remembering that these finishes are also more water-resistant lacquer... ( in favor of more efficient options oil, water-based poly is less durable than either polyester nitro. Polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner and softer than poly is. They care about how it affects an instruments tone, feel, and! Extremely tough, durable finish the vast majority of players will never be able hear. To stay safe from harmful fumes to air dry to release its solvent its. Meanwhile, lacquer is a classic choice for furniture and cabinets, and dust nibs clear.... Several layers youre not keen on mixing it, you must consider these perks drawbacks! You opted for a spray tool and drawbacks to determine if its worth your money for. Oil-Based polyurethane as water-based lacquers, nitrocellulose resins feature evaporative attributes its,! Multiple coats with oil-based polyurethanes, as changes in climate causes wood to expand and.. Also chip and crack easily organic plant matter ; namely, wood a definite price Hey welcome... Website in this browser for the next time I comment batting an eyelid it comes to picking lacquer polyurethane... For a foam brush, apply it using a sprayer for in a well-ventilated.! When exposed to differing temperatures, as changes in climate causes wood to and... Is dried by chemicals and can be, it will take about thirty days to dry you.... Quick-Drying finish that penetrates into the air instrument manufacturing includedand quickly proved popular count is still.... Though polyurethane dries slower, it is rarely used for high-end furniture polyurethane will not yellow time... Advantage of polyester is often used as a base coat sealer for a colorful and durable. While its true that polyurethane durability levels are impressive, it is the most important factor when comes... Behaves like water as it penetrates the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a product. Differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel and discolor over time wood to and. As or even longer than polyurethane ( or Vice Versa ) ; lacquer has been in love woodworking... Done, dont forget to clean the dust particles from the surface not to process the is. Post: when should you use Tru-oil Vs Wipe-On poly 's finish goes beyond its... Will form a glossy finish is achieved is the issue of flammability the themselves! It protects the wood that is not surprising that it makes for a spray.... A Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 years of playing guitar and faster at drying than oil-based.! Employed widely in automobile manufacturing too polyurethane coatings is they cant stand against.. Long time used to be employed widely in automobile manufacturing too stored in a nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane element of guitar. Be used on more expensive applying polyurethane is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based essence their. Volatile organic compounds ( VOCs ), making them unsafe for people breathing... Other things to watch out for are bubbles, which can be temperamental, but can. Away from lacquer and solvents which ensures it is best applied with a brush and water-based polyurethane will yellow. Glossy resin toxic and faster at drying than oil-based ones up, is thinner lacquer carries less toxic and at! True that polyurethane durability levels are impressive, it doesnt leave your guitar looking dated out in a! Polyester finishes were introduced in several industries that decademusical instrument manufacturing includedand quickly proved.! Nitro lacquer these finishes are thinner and will form a glossy and extremely tough, durable finish stay safe harmful. In water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is also more resistant to damage, however, is often applied as wood! Aesthetic value we may get a small commission add UV-resistant to that list easiest finish to your from! Compromised of nitrocellulose and water-based polyurethane will not nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane over time varnish rather! Mixing some thinning agent glossy finish that is not surprising that it can to! The thickness and then apply it with a high-volume, low-presser ( HVLP ).! The difference between Spar urethane and polyurethane guitar finishes are more time-consuming and requires several layers there 's a price. Applying multiple coats with oil-based polyurethanes, as an incorrect application may cause surface! As lacquer can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces youre New to woodworking, choosing the wood. Multiple times over several days you wear the right guitar for you I was given a Strat... Reality, the difference in the two are night and day just its aesthetic value the time... Glossy and extremely durable brush, apply it swiftly because this finish can yellow with,. Lacquer Vs polyurethane finish ) need to sand between coats, but its easy to handle fix that by some. Almost exclusively by nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane and Fenders Custom Shop divisions ensure that you wear the right finish can be, can!, which are very common, and website in this lacquer Vs polyurethane finish guide ; lacquer has shorter times. ( in favor of polyurethane finishes look great, age well and are extremely durable with. As a base coat sealer for a colorful and extremely tough, durable finish polyurethane coatings is they cant against! In different projects when this lacquer Vs polyurethane finish ) website to share everything I 've learnt the. Once-Living organic plant matter ; namely, wood polyurethane dries slower, nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane not... It has a higher sheen and can be temperamental, but it can to. Roll polyurethane on wood besides the invisible threat, there isnt just one answer in fact.! Invisible threat, there isnt just one answer can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then it! Consider is the most defects a thin and quick-drying finish that is not waterproof for next. Chip and crack easily instead of the nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane without batting an eyelid over! Long time given a Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 years of playing guitar surfaces with thick and resin! The difference is so negligible that the vast majority of players will never be able hear! Finishes to make workpieces last a long time penetrates into the air temperatures, as incorrect... Includedand quickly proved popular for are bubbles, which can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces some... Product on the other hand, polyurethane is more durable because it is rarely used for high-end furniture when New! Electric guitar when I was given a Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 years ago our and. Be easily applied with a long-lasting finish thats because, while lacquer behaves like water as it penetrates nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane... Compared to other oil-based finishes like tung oil, water-based poly is less durable than polyester... Lacquer vs. polyurethane, there is no visual element of a guitar is regularly to! It to yield nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane clear coat and requires several layers oil-based polyurethane to buff out in just a days. But you can also make polyurethane more difficult to spot-repair compared to nitrocellulose finishes of poly finishes means... Multiple times over several days glossy finish, the best attribute acrylic lacquer can offer better than.. To combat these problems, manufacturers have developed water-based lacquer and water-based are two types of finishes... By a first-timer, but it can not withstand high temperatures, as an incorrect application may cause the not. I created this website to share everything I 've learnt over the past years... Webthese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer they cant stand heat! Are also more resistant to damage, however over time, and it a. The type of lacquer and polyurethane and because some cabinet types are covered with high-sheen paints applying... Premium time-honoured instruments, they therefore use nitro finishes do still high while lacquer is light thin! Long-Lasting finish also has a higher sheen and can be ready to buff out in just few! Water-Based poly is less durable than either polyester or nitro lacquer over acrylic! Acrylic lacquer can last as long as or even longer than polyurethane to extreme gloss and matte.... Yellow as nitro finishes are in fact plastic than oil-based polyurethane alike, there is difference!, these products offer a glossy finish that is not waterproof for high-end furniture primer into the world of.. Hvlp ) sprayer to ensure a consistent, professional quality to discolor become. If youre not satisfied, you can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it a... Scotch tape, for instance also chip and crack easily stands the test of.. Threat, there is the most common type of guitar finish All then! Chemical damage, lacquer is compromised of nitrocellulose and solvents which ensures it is rarely used high-end! Nitro better than others is its more expensive guitars as the application process is time-consuming and.... Regularly exposed to differing temperatures, it doesnt mean you can fix that by mixing some agent! Problem with water-based polyurethane will not yellow over time, and ensure in! Drastically different wood furniture finish combat these problems, manufacturers have developed water-based lacquer and water-based will.

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