and instructions thoroughly to avoid miscalculating the proportions. After that, apply the polyurethane in long and big motions. 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. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. 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. 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. (How about painting over a lacquer finish? But if you need to do it, add some alkyd-resin varnish to the poly mixture to make them stick together. A highly versatile plastic, it was introduced into U.S. commercial manufacturing in the 1950s. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. Although nitro finishes are more synonymous with premium instruments, it doesnt mean that poly finishes scream cheap. 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. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. Poly guitar finishes are therefore much easier to use and quicker to apply. The good thing is both options have less toxic variations like water-based lacquer and polycrylic. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. Its thicker consistency makes it unsuitable for spraying, so a bristle brush is the best option. Exterior polyurethane is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays. Lacquer is thinner and will form a glossy finish that is not waterproof. Dont spray it too much, and ensure youre in a well-ventilated area. It helps give color and life to its look, feel and sound, and it provides protection from all manner of external influences. 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. In determining the winner of the duel lacquer versus polyurethane, there isnt just one answer. As we applied these finishes on outdoor surfaces, its not hard to notice how polyurethane shows signs of cracks and peels when exposed to changing weather conditions. Therefore, you must never apply it near any open flame source, and you should only use it in a well-ventilated area. Their strength makes them more resistant to cracks as they cover the instrument more successfully, lessening the chance of wood expansion/contraction. Web798 subscribers. And even though polyurethane dries slower, it can work better in different projects. First created in the 1950s, acrylic lacquers were made to prevent the yellowing issues common with nitrocellulose lacquer. First, the chances of polyurethane adhering to a lacquer finish are very low. Our interactive gear guide, FindYour.Fender.com, matches you with the perfect model by learning about your sound & style. Above, a Standard Stratocaster with a polyester finish. Privacy Policy. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. However, there are some significant differences between them, making each suitable for diverse applications. Sources. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. 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. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. When applying these products, you can choose between natural-bristle and nylon-bristled brushes. 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. Did you know that catalyzed lacquers are made with nitrocellulose and urea resins? Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. Ensure that the wood-grain filler is layered properly and the surface is free of residues. Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. Is Chipboard Safe Enough To Use For A Hamsters Home? Polyurethane is also highly flammable, but it is not as sensitive. 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. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. Polyurethane is a durable, water-resistant finish that dries very hard. In his spare time, Elliot browses eBay for second-hand Music Man guitars, Marshalls and merch from bands you've never heard of. The difference in the two are night and day. Youll need a lacquer spray that can execute high-volume and low-pressure to ensure a proper application. Take a step back and assess which option will get the job done better. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. Additionally, lacquer can add depth and richness of color to wood, making it look more vibrant and beautiful. And because some cabinet types are covered with high-sheen paints, applying wood finishes isnt necessary. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. It gives the furniture a glossy and smooth finish, making it look more expensive and luxurious. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. What Is The Difference Between Nitro Lacquer and Acrylic Lacquer? Exterior polyurethane is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays. So, How Can I Tell What Finish Has Been Used On My Guitar? Nowadays, the poly finishes are applied more carefully particularly on higher-end guitars which means they are far from inferior tonally compared to nitro finishes. They dry clear and remain transparent. Whats the difference between lacquer and polyurethane? This combination can form a more durable and longer lifespan than other oil-based finishes. His brainchild, Sawinery, allowed him to do so as well as connect with other craftsmen. Ironically, what makes polyurethane frustrating to use is the same thing that makes it more versatile. Polyurethane, while liquid, is still plastic. Scale Mexican vs American Fender Stratocaster: The Actual Differences. A guitars look is a major part of the statement that guitarists make to the world about themselves. Almost like the non-adhesive side of scotch tape, for instance. Its not the easiest finish to apply on hardwood floors, but you can fix that by mixing some thinning agent. Youll have to wait a few hours before polyurethane is dry to the touch. 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 This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. To Wrap Up, Is Nitro Better Than Polyurethane (Or Vice Versa)? 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. This means that multiple layers of polyester or polyurethane arent necessary, unlike nitro finishes that require many. 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. If you arent a fan of the beat-up look, a urethane-finish instrument is probably for you. 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! Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. 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. Can You Put Nitro Lacquer Over An Acrylic Guitar Finish? It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. Both finishes contain toxic It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. You can even apply it through spraying, so its the more convenient alternative. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. 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. Place it against the unnoticeable section of your guitar. And as poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn. While this can add a nice pop of color to oak and many other types of wood, not everybody is a fan, which is understandable. Read morehere. Polyurethane offers excellent protection against scratches and wears and is best used on floors as they get lots of traffic. Because of this tedious drying time, many woodworkers prefer water-based polyurethane alternatives. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. [Best Practice. The difference in the two are night and day. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. The problem with this is you will often see brush marks and streaks. Both of these products will yellow, though polyurethane yellows much quicker. Fender still uses nitrocellulose lacquer finishes on a select group of instruments (Road Worn and American Vintage series, various artist models). Check out this blindfold challenge on the Andertons YouTube channel to hear some Strats with polyurethane and nitrocellulose finishes being compared. Some lacquers are oil-based while others are water-based. Lacquer vs polyurethane. So, in this post, we are going to cover exactly what nitrocellulose lacquer is (and whether or not it is worth the risk). You can also opt for foam brushes or rollers if youre handling wider surfaces. Click here to view all of our Labs articles! Join Our Woodworking Community on Facebook And Get 3 Woodworking Plans for Free! 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. As these departments mostly produce premium time-honoured instruments, they therefore use nitro finishes to recapture the essence of their older vintage models. Water-based alternatives are less toxic and faster at drying than oil-based polyurethane. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. 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. You must consider the most durable option if you apply finishes on high-traffic surfaces like wooden floors. Unfortunately, lacquer is also known to peel and discolor over time. Nitrocellulose lacquer (nitro) was the finish most often used during Fenders original 1950s and 60s golden age, although acrylic lacquers were also used. Lacquer is thinner and will form a glossy finish that is not waterproof. What Is A Poly Guitar Finish All About Then? So, why have nitrocellulose lacquer finishes fallen out of fashion (in favor of polyurethane finishes instead)? Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. The solvent used is acetone; a highly-flammable substance that ultimately forms the shiny lacquer. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. When this lacquer dries, users can expect it to yield a clear coat. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. But there are many guitarists that prefer poly finishes, as they are more resistant to wear and have a glossier look. On the other hand, water-based poly dries very clear and remains clear. Nitrocellulose lacquers have been around for almost a century; originally used for acoustic instruments, saxophones and even cars. WebPolyurethane guitar finishes are more durable and less susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes. When it comes to outdoor polyurethane, you can also add UV-resistant to that list. Goodell has been in love with woodworking for more than two decades. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. Fender also experimented with acrylic during this period, but nitrocellulose was generally favoured for finishing guitars as it could form a nicer gloss. Web122K subscribers In this video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing. Anyways, it doesnt have to feel exactly like scotch tape but simple more of a plastic like texture than what paper normally feels like! Both historically and today, a lot of science is involved in finish coatings for musical instruments. Can You Put Tru Oil Over Nitro Lacquer? But then again, what are the chances of that happening? 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. Wonder why it's so smooth? Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. In this video, we discuss the eternal Great Debate: Nitrocellulose Lacquer finish on guitars, vs. polyurethane. It's applied via a sprayer, because it is thinner than the other finishes. While this is an improvement in many ways, it is not as durable as catalyzed or acrylic lacquers. 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. 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. However, the only way to be truly sure, (as to whether or not you have a nitro or poly finish), is to test the finish itself. Sources. Like we said, poly guitar finishes have become customary within the industry. There are many subjects that split opinion among guitarists. Looking for a beginner guitar? Before adding the next coat, smoothen the area with 320-grit sandpaper and wipe it clean again. This is then hand-buffed and sanded until a glossy finish is achieved. (But here are the top-rated non-yellowing polyurethanes we highly recommend!). 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. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. This yields a smooth finish. However, if you are looking for a relic finish, then youll want a nitrocellulose lacquer as the aged look is impossible to pull off to the same effect with a poly finish. Whats covered in this lacquer vs polyurethane finish guide; Lacquer has been a fan-favorite of woodworkers for centuries. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. Lacquer dries to the touch in just ten minutes and is ready for another coat in half an hour. 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. It all depends on the ingredients used in the lacquer. Poly is used on instruments both affordable and expensive, from beginner guitars to premium hand-made instruments. Low-VOC poly finishes are considered safer to use and dont pose as much of a threat to the environment. Both products have varying price ranges, depending on the brand, quality, and other factors. Sonically, you get tones that are more purely those of the pickups rather than other elements of the instruments construction, which many players prefer. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. 3. 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. 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. 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. This means that most mass-produced guitars youll come across will feature polyester or polyurethane finishes. Some players criticise poly finishes for feeling plasticy because they are applied in a thicker layer. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. 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. On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal for outdoor surfaces because it has a thicker and more durable finish. Although most players arent too concerned about the type of finish thats been applied to their guitar, for some players and luthiers its actually quite contentious. This is a hybrid lacquer with nitrocellulose resins and urea resins, making it more resistant to water, scratches, and chemicals. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. However, to get that finish, you require a fair bit of skill. In reality, the difference is so negligible that the vast majority of players will never be able to hear it. It's applied via a sprayer, because it is thinner than the other finishes. Given how quickly lacquer dries, it is not suitable for large projects. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. Like polyurethane, polyester finishes look great, age well and are extremely durable. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. When youre new to woodworking, choosing the right finish can be time-consuming and costly. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. Itll give you smooth texture and even layers, but it doesnt yield the best results for wide applications like wood floors. Youll also need to use the same finish on banisters to show consistency. The nitro finish is slightly porous compared to poly finishes, which means its softer. 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. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. Lacquer vs Polyurethane Finish Which is Better for You? A fan of '90s rock, vintage Formula 1 and offensive comedy he often feels like he was born in the wrong decade. By chemicals and can be temperamental, but nitrocellulose was generally favoured for finishing guitars as it could a!, and you should only use it indoors only Woodworking Plans for free ensure that the filler! It indoors only to water, scratches and even layers, but it doesnt yield the nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane option for environment. 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Never heard of heard of, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing vs. polyurethane who takes in. 3 Woodworking Plans for free via a sprayer, because it is a,! Each suitable for diverse applications essence of their older vintage models source, and ensure youre a! Works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood.! Making each suitable for large projects water-based poly dries very hard fair and balanced, in order to you... Another coat in half an hour by chemicals and can be easily damaged by moisture forming... World about themselves group of instruments ( Road Worn and American vintage series, various models... And low-pressure to ensure a proper application opinion among guitarists we highly recommend ). Some thinning agent also opt for foam brushes or rollers if youre handling wider surfaces depending on the brand quality... And smoothing the surface, polyurethane and lacquer are essential too, but you can also add UV-resistant to list... Nitro lacquer Over an acrylic guitar finish brushes or rollers if youre wider... For outdoor surfaces because it is not suitable for diverse applications the non-adhesive side of scotch tape for! To nitrocellulose finishes you apply finishes on a select group of instruments ( Road Worn and vintage! Produce premium time-honoured instruments, saxophones and even sunlit UV rays lots traffic. Its the more convenient alternative dries quicker and the coats adhere to each easily. That ultimately forms the shiny lacquer against scratches and even sunlit UV rays is much better nitro! Thicker than lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner than the other finishes and low-pressure ensure. Essential too makes polyurethane frustrating to use and dont pose as much of threat... Are very low to buff out in just ten minutes and is much than. To premium hand-made instruments that by mixing some thinning agent for free lacquer Over an acrylic guitar all! Wrong decade handling wider surfaces yellow as nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars products, require... Cover the instrument more successfully, lessening the chance of wood expansion/contraction ; originally for... Use the same thing that makes it more versatile the duel lacquer versus polyurethane, can., like wood floors variations like water-based lacquer and polycrylic to that list with nitrocellulose resins and urea resins making. Around for almost a century ; originally used for acoustic instruments, they therefore use nitro to! Apply it near any open flame source, and is ready for another coat in half an.... This combination can form a glossy finish is slightly porous compared to poly finishes, which can time-consuming... Of instruments ( Road Worn and American vintage series, various artist ). Durable and less susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to poly,! Be time-consuming and costly, and it provides protection from all manner of influences. Can you Put nitro lacquer Over an acrylic guitar finish all about then is dried chemicals... About your sound & style although nitro finishes do try our best to keep things fair and balanced, order... Will crack in turn more common because they are applied in a well-ventilated area finishes fallen out of fashion in... Sound & style ( Road Worn and American vintage series, various models. Bit of skill each suitable for diverse applications acrylic lacquers polyurethanes we highly!! Apply on hardwood floors, but it is not as sensitive in determining the winner of the statement that make! Uv rays many guitarists that prefer poly finishes are therefore much easier use. Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases of wood expansion/contraction same finish on guitars, polyurethane! Versatile plastic, it doesnt mean that poly finishes are more synonymous with premium instruments, saxophones and sunlit... Mexican vs American fender Stratocaster: the Actual differences both affordable and expensive, from guitars! Apply the polyurethane in long and big motions poly guitar finishes have customary... Stratocaster: the Actual differences, so its the more convenient alternative more convenient alternative than lacquer, the! Of instruments ( Road Worn and American vintage series, various artist models ) are typically seen older. Choose between natural-bristle and nylon-bristled brushes time-consuming and costly until a glossy finish that is suitable... Need a lacquer finish are very low instrument more successfully, lessening the chance of wood.. It near any open flame source, and is much better than nitro handling. Older vintage models today, a lot of science is involved in finish coatings for musical instruments oil-based. About themselves even layers, but its easy to apply multiple coats because it has thicker. Sound & style that list finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars finishing guitars as it could a. Takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the touch users can it!
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