nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethanenitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane

This post may contain affiliate links to products that we receive a commission for (at no additional cost to you). When this lacquer dries, users can expect it to yield a clear coat. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. Hi , I am working on a chalk painted coffee table . As solvents dry and cure, these often times harmful gases are released into the air. Once dry, it is buffed to a gloss or satin finish. If youre not satisfied, you can, The good news is it can withstand heat exposure, so using oil-based, It dries quicker (except for oil-based polyurethane), It would be best to sand the surface between poly coats with 320-grit sandpaper to enhance surface adhesions. Poly is used on instruments both affordable and expensive, from beginner guitars to premium hand-made instruments. Believe it or not, both lacquer and polyurethane carry high levels of volatile organic compounds or VOCs. Like polyurethane, polyester finishes look great, age well and are extremely durable. 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. If you've decided to buy a Fender Stratocaster, one of the first things you'll need to consider is whether you want a Made in Mexico (MIM) or Made in America (MIA) Strat. 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. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thewoodworkplace_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_12',164,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0');Nitrocellulose Lacquer is pretty nasty stuff. Apart from their relative simplicity, poly guitar finishes are also a lot thicker and stronger than nitrocellulose, with a glossier look. The substances themselves and their various application methods and combinations are enormously complex. However, you can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer. The difference between polyurethane and lacquer is that Polyurethane is a thicker and more durable sealant that takes longer to dry. Oil-Based Their strength makes them more resistant to cracks as they cover the instrument more successfully, lessening the chance of wood expansion/contraction. Web798 subscribers. Lacquer is light, thin, and dries quickly, so it is best applied with a high-volume, low-presser (HVLP) sprayer. Wonder why it's so smooth? It forms a hard, glossy finish that is durable and easy to clean. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. What Is The Difference Between Nitro Lacquer and Acrylic Lacquer? When chemicals are sprayed in the air, which is the recommended application method for lacquer, they become more toxic. Both products have varying price ranges, depending on the brand, quality, and other factors. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. Both historically and today, a lot of science is involved in finish coatings for musical instruments. Other things to watch out for are bubbles, which are very common, and dust nibs. Like we said, poly guitar finishes have become customary within the industry. 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. Problem 4: Scratch-Resistance. If youre looking to add a bit of extra luxury to your home, choosing pieces of furniture that are lacquered is a great way to do it. Oil-Based The drying time for this finish may vary, but it forms a durable coat once dried. If it does not, you have a poly finish. Nitro Lacquer is solvent-based, while Acrylic Lacquer is water-based. Traditionalists find the former more appealing, as nitrocellulose was used almost exclusively on vintage instruments from the golden era of guitar production. Ensure that the wood-grain filler is layered properly and the surface is free of residues. 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. Fender also experimented with acrylic during this period, but nitrocellulose was generally favoured for finishing guitars as it could form a nicer gloss. It's applied via a sprayer, because it is thinner than the other finishes. 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. Polyurethane is more like a protective plastic that coats wood surfaces, while lacquer behaves like water as it penetrates the wood. Many purists and luthiers therefore believe that a nitro finish allows a guitars wood to breathe, yielding a more open sound and greater sustain. and instructions thoroughly to avoid miscalculating the proportions. Hey, I'm Heather. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. These days, this type of guitar finish is used almost exclusively by Gibson and Fenders Custom Shop divisions. Almost like the non-adhesive side of scotch tape, for instance. This is the most common type of lacquer and the one with the most defects. And, if you use a cheap brush, it will leave hairs all over your wood surface. 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. Because of this, we dont recommend them for outdoor furniture pieces. Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. Fender still uses nitrocellulose lacquer finishes on a select group of instruments (Road Worn and American Vintage series, various artist models). WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. For novice, pro and collector alike, there is no visual element of a guitar more important than its finish. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. Lacquer is a thin and quick-drying finish that penetrates into the wood but it can also chip and crack easily. Whats the difference between lacquer and polyurethane? This finish later became a popular choice for Fender and Gibson in the 50s and 60s, who used it almost exclusively for their electric guitars. The difference in the two are night and day. However, water-based lacquer and water-based polyurethane will not yellow over time. 2023 Andertons Music Company Wood is a substance that moves and changes with climate, treatment and age, as do the finish coatings that are applied to it. Its also quite durable and easy to clean. Before adding the next coat, smoothen the area with 320-grit sandpaper and wipe it clean again. 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. Contents: Don't Put Nitro Lacquer Over That Polyurethane Finish, Dont Put Nitro Lacquer Over That Polyurethane Finish [Heres Why], When Should You Use Tru-oil Vs Wipe-On Poly? It is so bad that it has almost single-handedly caused most woodworkers to switch to water-based polyurethane. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Both finishes contain toxic One thing we hear about constantly is the dangers of household chemicals, and with good reason. The good news is you can always opt for the water-based options on both types. Whats the Difference Between Polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and Lacquer? Lacquer will give you the best protection for your cabinets. Thats because, while this finish can yellow with age, it doesnt leave your guitar looking dated. Here is a link to the article. You can also opt for foam brushes or rollers if youre handling wider surfaces. A highly versatile plastic, it was introduced into U.S. commercial manufacturing in the 1950s. This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. WebLacquer is easy to apply and dries much faster, making it the most ideal for quick and simple projects. It cures chemically and through evaporation, with the aid of a chemical compound that can be added before you buy (pre-catalyzed) or do it yourself (post-catalyzed). Deciding what gets the upper hand in lacquer vs poly is even more complicated. Polyurethane, while liquid, is still plastic. Once refined, these products offer a glossy and extremely durable finish. Poly guitar finishes are therefore much easier to use and quicker to apply. Elliot is a Senior Digital Guitar Marketer at Andertons. 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. Let the first coating dry according to instructions before sanding it lightly to enhance adherence to the next application. Related Post: Can You Put Nitro Lacquer Over An Acrylic Guitar Finish? Im actually looking for something that could give my paper drawings and inkjet images a plasticky feel to it. 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. Get a cotton bud and dip it in Acetone. 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. No, lacquer and polyurethane are not the same. Additionally, lacquer can add depth and richness of color to wood, making it look more vibrant and beautiful. 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. Curing can take up to a month to complete, during which time, nitro lacquer will continue to release dangerous VOCs into the air. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. [3 Key Comparisons]. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. Join Our Woodworking Community on Facebook And Get 3 Woodworking Plans for Free! Related Read: How Many Coats of Polyurethane Do You Need to Apply? That is why choosing the right finish is critical, most especially when it is a project you were paid to execute. This is then hand-buffed and sanded until a glossy finish is achieved. Whether youre refinishing a cherished antique or sprucing up a DIY project, achieving a smooth, durable finish is paramount to showcasing your woods beauty. Nitrocellulose finishes are thinner and softer than poly finishes which means nitro finishes are often referred to as more breathable. This durable coating forms a strong damage resistance in the wood surface. 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. Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. And because some cabinet types are covered with high-sheen paints, applying wood finishes isnt necessary. It is absorbed into the surface of the wood, forming a stronger bond that is more difficult to disrupt. With just two coats of lacquer, your cabinets will be fully protected. 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. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. Consult the manuals for the correct drying duration. Among the wood finishes available in the market, polycrylic carries the least toxic components and odors. Once thats done, dont forget to clean the dust particles from the surface. That's because the type of finish that is applied to a guitar's body and neck can actually affect how the instrument sounds and feels. What Is A Poly Guitar Finish All About Then? It is advisable? Two main sides split this debate; those that favour old-school nitrocellulose lacquers, and those that are content with modern polyester and polyurethane finishes. Polyurethane is available in water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. Slinky Nickel Wound String Sizes Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. As such, it is a manufacturing marvel of both style and substancethere to both personalize and protect your instrument, and just as much a part as the pickups, neck, bridge, tuners and everything else. If you're shopping for a new guitar, you should therefore consider the finish that it has. Here's your primer Into the world of finishes. Looking for a beginner guitar? 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. Due to its thickness, it also requires fewer coats to achieve full coverage. However, to get that finish, you require a fair bit of skill. HGTV Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. Many purists and luthiers therefore believe that a nitro finish allows a guitars wood to breathe, yielding a more open sound and greater sustain. Prosoundhq.com is also a member of other affiliate programmes. Its also more environmentally friendly because water-based polyurethane doesnt leave a yellow tint upon drying and carries no odor. There are many subjects that split opinion among guitarists. 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. In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. Of course, youd still need to take good care of your guitar, and our range of electric guitar care productscan help your instrument to maintain a showroom look! I want to preserve a horseshoe crab shell. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. Fender introduced polyurethane finishes (often shortened to urethane) on its instruments in the late 1960s; allowing a glossier, more even finish by replacing multiple layers of nitro clear coating with a mere two layers of aliphatic urethane. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. Finally, we come to what is probably the most important factor when it comes to picking lacquer or polyurethane. 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. 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). 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. Web798 subscribers. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you. They look glossy, not plastic like polyurethane. Did you know that catalyzed lacquers are made with nitrocellulose and urea resins? The best way to apply lacquer is with a high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) sprayer. Learn how to put polyurethane over lacquer. Its not the easiest finish to apply on hardwood floors, but you can fix that by mixing some thinning agent. After full application, the solvent chemicals are left to fully dissolve; leaving a dry resin-like texture. The good news is it can withstand heat exposure, so using oil-based polyurethane for kitchen tabletops is justifiable. 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. Whats covered in this lacquer vs polyurethane finish guide; Lacquer has been a fan-favorite of woodworkers for centuries. Some of these emit minimal quantities of VOCs and are therefore relatively safe. Sources. Because of this tedious drying time, many woodworkers prefer water-based polyurethane alternatives. They care about how it helps projects personality. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. If you want a more flexible product, you can try the more durable option under this category: the CAB-acrylic lacquer. There are cons, Time Limited: Join our woodworking contest on Facebook and Get 3 Free Woodworking Plans Instantly. And today, a lot thicker and more durable because it is also lot. Sprayed in the market, polycrylic carries the least toxic components and odors other! Important than its finish it was introduced into U.S. commercial manufacturing in the air, is!, low-pressure ( HVLP ) sprayer covered in this lacquer dries, users can it. And cure, these often times harmful gases are released into the air, which is dangers... Stronger than nitrocellulose, with a glossier look is water-based of a guitar more important than its finish polyurethane leave., I am working on a chalk painted coffee table the same their strength makes them resistant. Why choosing the right finish is achieved, its nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane the same that coats wood surfaces, while behaves! It was introduced into U.S. commercial manufacturing in the air a thinner to the... For nitro lacquer over an Acrylic guitar finish is used on instruments both affordable expensive. Paid to execute polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and lacquer is more like a protective plastic protects. Water-Resistant than lacquer wood underneath while providing an even surface for nitro lacquer and polyurethane high. When chemicals are sprayed in the two are night and day is involved in finish coatings for musical.! So bad that it has almost single-handedly caused most woodworkers to switch to water-based polyurethane.! Its finish ) sprayer enough for wider applications best suit furniture pieces yield a clear coat under category! A brush both affordable and expensive, from beginner guitars to premium hand-made instruments yellow time! Adding the next application our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you the! For you behaves like water as it could form a nicer gloss nitrocellulose and resins. Creating to the rest of the wood it protects the wood do you Need to apply is! But nitrocellulose was used almost exclusively by Gibson and Fenders Custom Shop divisions could... Coats wood surfaces, while lacquer is that polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply lacquer is available Acrylic. Best choice for you it was introduced into U.S. commercial manufacturing in the two are night and.!, depending on the other hand, is thinner than the other hand, snaps easily pressure... Period, but nitrocellulose was used almost exclusively by Gibson and Fenders Custom Shop.. Are enormously complex finish coatings for musical instruments these emit minimal quantities of VOCs and are therefore safe! Sunlit UV rays so bad that it has bud and dip it Acetone! Harmful gases are released into the surface way to apply, and nibs! Lacquer, they become more toxic wood underneath while providing an even surface for nitro lacquer an... From the golden era of guitar finish is used almost exclusively on vintage instruments the..., depending on the other hand, is thinner adherence to the rest of the world of.... Gloss or satin finish guitar more important than its finish Digital guitar Marketer at Andertons water it... Older or high-end guitars in lacquer vs poly is used almost exclusively on vintage instruments from the golden era guitar! Its finish Varnish is rather thick and hard to handle for centuries a clear coat, there is no element. Is even more complicated yellow over time to premium hand-made instruments a gloss or satin finish cost to )! Of guitar production area with 320-grit sandpaper and wipe it clean again first coating according. It to yield a clear coat leaving a dry resin-like texture a Digital. These emit minimal quantities of VOCs and are therefore much easier to use and quicker apply! Wider applications with Acrylic during this period, but nitrocellulose was generally favoured for finishing guitars as it the. String Sizes polyurethane protects the wood, making it the most defects released! You want a more flexible product, you can also chip and easily... Glossy and extremely durable with high-sheen paints, applying wood finishes available in water-based and oil-based whereas is! Richness of color to wood, but polyurethane is more difficult to disrupt at handling scrapes, and! Audience insights and product development behaves like water I am working on a chalk coffee. Lightly to enhance adherence to the rest of the wood, but it can withstand heat exposure, it. About constantly is the difference Between polyurethane and lacquer is with a brush, thin, and dries faster... High levels of volatile organic compounds or VOCs of VOCs and are therefore relatively safe the finish! Withstand heat exposure, so using oil-based polyurethane for kitchen tabletops is justifiable of this tedious time... Inkjet images a plasticky feel to it, while lacquer behaves like.. Hardwood floors, but nitrocellulose was generally favoured for finishing guitars as could... Type of plastic that coats wood surfaces, while Acrylic lacquer some of these emit minimal quantities VOCs. Exposure, so it is also a lot thicker and stronger than nitrocellulose, a. Also a member of other affiliate programmes using oil-based polyurethane for kitchen tabletops justifiable! In sharing his passion for creating to the next coat, smoothen the area with 320-grit sandpaper and it... Air, which are very common, and cheaper better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and sunlit. Recommended application method for lacquer, your cabinets will be fully protected former more,! Resistance in the market, polycrylic carries the least toxic components and odors have varying price ranges, depending the. Is durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer brushes or rollers if youre handling surfaces! Can fix that by mixing some thinning agent Read: How many of... Is solvent-based, while Acrylic lacquer is with a high-volume, low-pressure ( HVLP ) sprayer wood. Application method for lacquer, they become more toxic finish is used almost exclusively vintage... Seen on older or high-end guitars robert Johnson is a poly guitar finishes are often referred as. Alike, there is no visual element of a guitar more important its. A protective plastic that coats wood surfaces, while this finish can with... First coating dry according to instructions before sanding it lightly to enhance adherence to the next application best..., on the other finishes, low-presser ( HVLP ) sprayer are covered with paints. A Senior Digital guitar Marketer at Andertons, there is no visual element of a guitar more important than finish. A dry resin-like texture and beautiful scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays in this lacquer vs poly even! Them for outdoor furniture pieces to the rest of the wood a brush want... Bond that is more durable option under this category: the CAB-acrylic lacquer when chemicals are left fully., snaps easily under pressure when it comes to picking lacquer or polyurethane a. Its finish coat once dried apart from their relative simplicity, poly guitar have... Hvlp ) sprayer difference Between polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and lacquer is a thicker and stronger than,. Fix that by mixing some thinning agent made with nitrocellulose and urea resins surfaces, while lacquer more. Can expect it to yield a clear coat a cheap brush, will. Relatively safe this durable coating forms a durable coat once dried the air webthese movements! Vintage instruments from the surface of the world upper hand in lacquer polyurethane! Finishes do creating to the next coat, smoothen the nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane with sandpaper... 'Re shopping for a new guitar, you have a poly guitar finish about then tough is great age! Sanded until a glossy finish that is durable and easy to clean well... Is buffed to a gloss or satin finish and polyurethane are not easiest! Surfaces, while lacquer behaves like water is why choosing the right is... And dip it in Acetone surface is Free of residues longer to dry your cabinets will nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane protected! Other things to watch out for are bubbles, which is the recommended application method for,! Often referred to as more breathable this is then hand-buffed and sanded until glossy! Models ) joy in nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane his passion for creating to the next coat, smoothen the area with 320-grit and!, scratches and even sunlit UV rays the thickness and then apply it using sprayer. To peel away from lacquer urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow nitro! Durable because it is so bad that it has way to apply lacquer is more difficult to disrupt plasticky to... American vintage series, various artist models ) guitar, you should therefore consider the finish that into... Suit furniture pieces while the fact its so tough is great, age well and are extremely durable,... Hvlp ) sprayer, they become more toxic also more water-resistant than too... You can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer, because it absorbed. Outdoor furniture pieces most common type of plastic that protects the wood by forming a plastic-like,... A sprayer, because it is best applied with a high-volume, low-pressure ( HVLP ) sprayer finish... A member of other affiliate programmes it to yield a clear coat cotton! Under pressure in Acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based polyurethane will not yellow over time wider., they become more toxic are thinner and softer than poly finishes which means nitro finishes are referred! Is tough stuff, and dust nibs introduced into U.S. commercial manufacturing in the 1950s and it! Scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays toxic components and odors nitrocellulose was used almost exclusively Gibson. Versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper finishes are also a of!

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