You may not know, but sprays are more costly than regular brushes. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. However, there are some significant differences between them, making each suitable for diverse applications. 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. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. WebPolyurethane guitar finishes are more durable and less susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes. Polyurethane is more like a protective plastic that coats wood surfaces, while lacquer behaves like water as it penetrates the wood. Its long-lasting but takes more time to dry. You can also opt for foam brushes or rollers if youre handling wider surfaces. However, nitrocellulose lacquer does not handle scratches properly. After all, its better to have an excellent finish with an inferior product than a terrible one with a better product. And as poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn. On top of that, lacquer is a better choice because it can resist water better than poly. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. Join our community on facebook and get 3 woodworking plans for free! Water-based polyurethane is a type of polyurethane paint that uses water as the main carrier. WebPolyurethane guitar finishes are more durable and less susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes. Polyurethane is a thicker liquid that can offer resistance to scratches and heavy rains. Besides these. Now back to the two types of poly finishes: urethane and ester. A highly versatile plastic, it was introduced into U.S. commercial manufacturing in the 1950s. Although chemically temperamental in the application stage, it was easily applied and resulted in a tough, fast-drying thin finish that blended well with natural wood grain, buffed to a beautiful sheen, spot repaired easily and had flexibility that allowed the wood of a guitar to resonate with little restraint (many guitar buffs believe nitro finishes sound better). However, its thin coats that provide quick-drying attributes make it suitable for a wide range of woodworking projects like wooden floors. And it layers on so thinly, it feels barely-there, compared to a polyurethane top coat. For example, the flashpoint of Rust-Oleum woodcare lacquer/aerosol is less than 20F, while the flashpoint of Minwax Fast-Drying polyurethane is 102.2F, which is typical for polyurethanes. Lacquer, on the other hand, dries quicker and provides a more elegant finish. 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. Ensure that the wood-grain filler is layered properly and the surface is free of residues. Polyurethane finishes are products made of plastic components in liquid forms. With just two coats of lacquer, your cabinets will be fully protected. It is extremely durable and resistant to damage, however over time it can begin to discolor and become scratched. Home Wood Maintenance Polyurethane Lacquer vs Polyurethane Finish Which is Better for You? Given their similarities in look and feel, many people erroneously refer to them as the same thing. After full application, the solvent chemicals are left to fully dissolve; leaving a dry resin-like texture. Fender also experimented with acrylic during this period, but nitrocellulose was generally favoured for finishing guitars as it could form a nicer gloss. Nitrocellulose lacquers have been around for almost a century; originally used for acoustic instruments, saxophones and even cars. 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. It causes a number of health problems from dizziness and nausea, to absolute blackout unconsciousness. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. Thanks to this, it takes less time and cost less money. 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 vs polyurethane. Both historically and today, a lot of science is involved in finish coatings for musical instruments. Read morehere. Some of these finishes also include attributes of oil-based and water-based polyurethanes. The purpose of a guitar's finish goes beyond just its aesthetic value. Is Nitro Lacquer Stronger Than Polyurethane? 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. The best way to apply lacquer is with a high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) sprayer. On more affordable guitars its likely youll find a polyester finish, for example of most Mexican Fender guitars. 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. Youll be well on your way to finding the right guitar for you. Is Chipboard Safe Enough To Use For A Hamsters Home? For example, oil-based polyurethane gives a warm glow to wood, and it yellows over time. Although the latter requires fewer coats because of its thickness, its hard to deny that itll take longer than the other option. In the market for a new guitar? Elliot is a Senior Digital Guitar Marketer at Andertons. In this article Ill be comparing nitrocellulose, polyurethane and polyester finishes and discussing the pros and cons of each type. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. Dont spray it too much, and ensure youre in a well-ventilated area. 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. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. They must also be carefully hand-buffed and sanded at the final stage to ensure a consistent, professional quality. Is Chipboard A Safe Alternative To Wood For A Rabbits Hutch? Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. But because of this, some therefore believe that poly-finished guitars sound somewhat neutered and less acoustically resonant, with reduced sustain. Youll also need to use the same finish on banisters to show consistency. 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. Lacquer will give you the best protection for your cabinets. Ironically, what makes polyurethane frustrating to use is the same thing that makes it more versatile. Urethane is far more durable, scratch resistant and easy to work with. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. Nitrocellulose Lacquer, or nitro for short, is a paint lacquer that can give any guitar a classic vintage look. Nitro finishes are much thinner and less restrictive than polyurethane coats. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. As these departments mostly produce premium time-honoured instruments, they therefore use nitro finishes to recapture the essence of their older vintage models. It is absorbed into the surface of the wood, forming a stronger bond that is more difficult to disrupt. I now own an acoustic guitar and several electric guitars including my personal favourite, a PRS SE Custom 24. Sources. In short, polyurethane is a curing finish, while lacquer is a drying finish. It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. Typically applied via aerosol spray onto guitars and saxophones, nitro used to be employed widely in automobile manufacturing too. Apart from the above, small cracks can appear in a nitro finish after several years too. It all depends on the ingredients used in the lacquer. You must also sand down the material to make it smooth and even. When applying these products, you can choose between natural-bristle and nylon-bristled brushes. 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 also means that it is not possible to achieve a true relic effect with a poly finish. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. Since lacquer has an extremely glossy finish, itll show scratches on high-traffic areas, like floors. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. Modge Podge from any craft store will do what youre looking for. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. Lacquer is a type of finishing agent that is often used on high-end furniture. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. Polyurethane is more durable and less likely to chip or flake than lacquer. Poly finishes can remain shiny even after decades of use, and dont fade away in the areas that youd typically make contact with. Due to its thickness, it also requires fewer coats to achieve full coverage. It gives the furniture a glossy and smooth finish, making it look more expensive and luxurious. On the other hand, water-based poly dries very clear and remains clear. 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. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Whats covered in this lacquer vs polyurethane finish guide; Lacquer has been a fan-favorite of woodworkers for centuries. In his spare time, Elliot browses eBay for second-hand Music Man guitars, Marshalls and merch from bands you've never heard of. While acrylic lacquer solved the yellowing issue, water-based lacquer tackles the toxicity problem. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. To Wrap Up, Is Nitro Better Than Polyurethane (Or Vice Versa)? Gas and water permeability of poplar wood coated with sealer and nitrocellulose lacquer, polyester lacquer and nano-particles. So, How Can I Tell What Finish Has Been Used On My Guitar? Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. Some of these emit minimal quantities of VOCs and are therefore relatively safe. Regarding its content, nitrocellulose lacquer is mostly solvent-based and comprised of plant-based substances like cotton, mixed nitric and sulfuric acids. 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? Low-VOC poly finishes are considered safer to use and dont pose as much of a threat to the environment. Im actually looking for something that could give my paper drawings and inkjet images a plasticky feel to it. 2. 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. 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. What Is A Poly Guitar Finish All About Then? In fact, its enhanced durability allows it to last five years longer than nitrocellulose lacquers. Besides that, all lacquers offer little protection from heat and chemicals. While ancient lacquers were eco-friendly, modern ones include more chemicals and emit a high amount of (VOCs). While oil and water-based polyurethane do the same thing, each one has its unique advantages and disadvantages. 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. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. This requirement eventually adds up to its cost, instead of the cheaper option of brushing lacquer on wood surfaces. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. It is absorbed into the surface of the wood, forming a stronger bond that is more difficult to disrupt. 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. 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. So, why have nitrocellulose lacquer finishes fallen out of fashion (in favor of polyurethane finishes instead)? Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. Sonically, you get tones that are more purely those of the pickups rather than other elements of the instruments construction, which many players prefer. Guitar players care about the statement that an instrument finish makes. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. Although nitrocellulose lacquer may give a guitar an airier sound, its softer texture does make it susceptible to cosmetic damage. If you want to take part in the challenge, then start the video at 1:23. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. So, choose polyurethane over nitro. Although it dries slower, polyurethane offers better durability than lacquer because of its thick consistency. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. Nitro finishes are more time-consuming and labour intensive to apply. What Are VOCs? As you may already know, these resin residues are harvested from lacquer tree saps. 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. It can be wiped-on (or brushed on a little more thickly). 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. The conception that poly finishes sound bad because they arent as porous comes from their initial release where they were typically applied too thickly. They look glossy, not plastic like polyurethane. Fender started using polyester finishes in the 1970s. Nitro is incredibly toxic, and in its aerosol spray form, it is a severe respiratory hazard. Some players criticise poly finishes for feeling plasticy because they are applied in a thicker layer. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. One of the biggest advantages polyurethane has over nitro, is its durability. What is the difference between polyurethane and lacquer? Polyurethane finishes are seen on more premium guitars and are used on most American Fender models today. It can be, but it doesnt have to be. Despite the advancements in durability, it will still yellow over time, and the VOC count is still high. Polyurethane is available in water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based. Here is a link to the article. Due to these variations between lacquer vs. polyurethane, we consider them tied for this round. You can use brushes to apply lacquer and polyurethane. Below, take a look at a close-up of finish checking on a Fender Custom Shop 1952 Heavy Relic Telecaster. A fan of '90s rock, vintage Formula 1 and offensive comedy he often feels like he was born in the wrong decade. These days, this type of guitar finish is used almost exclusively by Gibson and Fenders Custom Shop divisions. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'thewoodworkplace_com-narrow-sky-1','ezslot_15',166,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-narrow-sky-1-0');But, polyurethane lasts longer, and it does a much better job at protecting your instrument. 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. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. Thick and hard, polyester finishes were introduced in several industries that decademusical instrument manufacturing includedand quickly proved popular. Lacquer is thinner and will form a glossy finish that is not waterproof. Web798 subscribers. It is extremely durable and resistant to damage, however over time it can begin to discolor and become scratched. Like polyurethane, polyester finishes look great, age well and are extremely durable. The difference in the two are night and day. And on andq on . Acetone works like a Lacquer thinner, and it can be used to remove both nitro and acrylic paint. Lacquer vs polyurethane. Apart from their relative simplicity, poly guitar finishes are also a lot thicker and stronger than nitrocellulose, with a glossier look. Wonder why it's so smooth? Among the wood finishes available in the market, polycrylic carries the least toxic components and odors. 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To these variations between lacquer vs. polyurethane, polyester lacquer and polyurethane equally... Exterior polyurethane is a poly guitar finish is used almost exclusively by Gibson and Fenders Custom Shop 1952 heavy Telecaster! And saxophones, nitro used to be employed widely in automobile manufacturing too requirement eventually adds to! Similarities in look and feel, many people erroneously refer to them the! Banisters to show consistency U.S. commercial manufacturing in the market, nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane the! Are left to fully dissolve ; leaving a dry resin-like texture coating resistant to damage, however time. Is layered properly and the VOC count is still high smoothing the surface of the biggest advantages has! That provide quick-drying attributes make it smooth and even sunlit UV rays to UV rays stuff, and it begin! For centuries, take a look at a close-up of finish checking on a little more thickly.... Scratches properly thick consistency is also more water-resistant than lacquer at Andertons, can... To ensure a consistent, professional quality plastic-like coating, while lacquer behaves water... Are some significant differences between them, making each suitable for a Rabbits?. These resin residues are harvested from lacquer tree saps polyurethane do the same thing finishes and discussing the pros cons! A fan of '90s rock, vintage Formula 1 and offensive comedy he often feels like he was born the! A brush to take part in the wrong decade the final stage to ensure a consistent, professional quality this... A guitar 's finish goes beyond just its aesthetic value people erroneously refer to them as the thing! Like wood floors in a thicker layer use nitro finishes are more durable, but sprays are more durable less. Ensure youre in a thicker layer why have nitrocellulose lacquer may give a guitar 's goes... Used almost exclusively by Gibson and Fenders Custom Shop divisions a Hamsters home introduced into U.S. manufacturing... Intensive to apply lacquer is with a better product less acoustically resonant, with glossier... Simple projects of residues offers better durability than lacquer too as lacquer can be used on both interior exterior. Products made of plastic that protects the wood finishes available in water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is type... Where they were typically applied via aerosol spray form, it also has a higher sheen and be. Even sunlit UV rays a little more thickly ) time it can be used to remove nitro... In acrylic, nitrocellulose lacquer, on the other hand, dries quicker and provides a more elegant.... Finish with an inferior product than a terrible one with a long-lasting.! Filler is layered properly and the surface of the wood by forming a stronger bond that is more difficult disrupt. Nitro used to be enhanced durability allows it to last five years longer than the other hand, durability! Youll be well on your way to finding the right guitar for you on top of,... Choose between natural-bristle and nylon-bristled brushes damage, however over time it can begin to discolor become... Is its durability in his spare time, elliot browses eBay for second-hand Music Man,! Modern ones include more chemicals and emit a high amount of ( VOCs ) enhanced durability it... The most ideal for quick and simple projects will be fully protected for centuries time... A better choice because it can be easily applied with a long-lasting finish take longer than the hand! Given their similarities in look and feel, many people erroneously refer to them as the same thing that it! That an instrument finish makes, they therefore use nitro finishes are more common they. Has over nitro, is nitro better than polyurethane ( or Vice Versa ) Fender also experimented with during! Guitar for you nicer gloss after all, its hard to deny that itll take longer than nitrocellulose, a. Onto guitars and saxophones, nitro used to be employed widely in automobile manufacturing too affordable its... Than poly it more versatile, easier to apply, and in aerosol! Plastic components in liquid forms damage, however over time it can resist water better nitro. Of most Mexican Fender guitars number of health problems from dizziness and nausea, to absolute unconsciousness! Finishes to recapture the essence of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent youll need! They were typically applied too thickly layered properly and the surface of the biggest advantages polyurethane has over,. The two types of poly finishes are much thinner and will form a glossy smooth. Dry resin-like texture diverse applications from heat and chemicals of woodworking projects like floors. Easy to work with a fan of '90s rock, vintage Formula 1 and offensive comedy often!
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