Its also quite durable and easy to clean. (But here are the top-rated non-yellowing polyurethanes we highly recommend!). 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). Read next!). However, water-based poly is less durable than oil-based ones. A, New DIYers often question cedars durability, mainly because its one of the softer woods in todays market. Friendly Community. While this is an improvement in many ways, it is not as durable as catalyzed or acrylic lacquers. 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 Because of this, we dont recommend them for outdoor furniture pieces. If you buy something through our posts, we may get a small commission. Itll give you smooth texture and even layers, but it doesnt yield the best results for wide applications like wood floors. Oil-Based It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. Sawinery is a one-stop source for anything woodworking-related. Unfortunately, lacquer is also known to peel and discolor over time. Given how quickly lacquer dries, it is not suitable for large projects. Nitrocellulose lacquers have been around for almost a century; originally used for acoustic instruments, saxophones and even cars. Because of this, you may need to opt for polyurethane because they offer more matte effects. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. Variants in use include satin nitrocellulose lacquer (Highway One models, Jim Root Stratocaster), which is a flatter finish, and thin-skin nitrocellulose lacquer (Vintage Hot Rod models), which has a thinner sanding sealer or lacquer undercoat. Both lacquer and polyurethane do this excellently. You must consider these perks and drawbacks to determine if its worth your money. Its also the kind of chemical you need to apply using the spraying method when mixed with thinner. After that, apply the polyurethane in long and big motions. As mentioned earlier, lacquer is very common for high-end furniture or any wooden surface that wont see much action. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Polyurethane does not have that problem. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. Now back to the two types of poly finishes: urethane and ester. That is why you should always use a respirator when applying any chemicals. 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. Here is a link to the article. However, nitrocellulose lacquer does not handle scratches properly. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. Like we said, poly guitar finishes have become customary within the industry. Its says youre state-of-art or old-school; classic or cutting edge. Due to these variations between lacquer vs. polyurethane, we consider them tied for this round. For novice, pro and collector alike, there is no visual element of a guitar more important than its finish. On the other hand, polyurethane is best for high-traffic areas such as floors, tables, countertops, and bars. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. Read morehere. Polyurethane finishes are products made of plastic components in liquid forms. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. The substances themselves and their various application methods and combinations are enormously complex. I now own an acoustic guitar and several electric guitars including my personal favourite, a PRS SE Custom 24. Web122K subscribers In this video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing. Ive heard that polyurethane and lacquer sprays can be applied to paper in order to give it a protective coat. It's applied via a sprayer, because it is thinner than the other finishes. It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. Is Nitro Lacquer Stronger Than Polyurethane? Due to its thickness, it also requires fewer coats to achieve full coverage. 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. Practice caution when applying multiple coats with oil-based polyurethanes, as an incorrect application may cause the surface not to process the finish well. 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. Polyurethane is a thicker liquid that can offer resistance to scratches and heavy rains. 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. How Hard is this Wood. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. This lacquer paint is mostly used as a way to give wooden instruments a bold change of color. Initially derived from the secretions of the lac bug, lacquer remains a popular finish for cabinets and high-end wood furniture, even though its formula has changed drastically. If you arent a fan of the beat-up look, a urethane-finish instrument is probably for you. 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. 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. Water-based polyurethane does a much better job, as it can be recoated in as little as two hours. Slinky Nickel Wound String Sizes Besides the invisible threat, there is the issue of flammability. 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. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. The good thing about the VOCs in these products is that they are no longer dangerous when they dry. Consult the manuals for the correct drying duration. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. However, our experts suggest being careful when using a high volume of this finish as its highly flammable. Both finishes contain toxic Here's your primer Into the world of finishes. And as poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn. Ernie Ball Slinky String Guide: Comparison and Which to Choose. I want to preserve a horseshoe crab shell. Check out this blindfold challenge on the Andertons YouTube channel to hear some Strats with polyurethane and nitrocellulose finishes being compared. Its easy to assume any wood finish will fulfill your woodworking requirements, but here are some things you need to consider: Since it has a thin consistency, the best method to try is to spray lacquer on 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. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. Nitrocellulose Lacquer, or nitro for short, is a paint lacquer that can give any guitar a classic vintage look. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. Fender also experimented with acrylic during this period, but nitrocellulose was generally favoured for finishing guitars as it could form a nicer gloss. Also Read: Can You Roll Polyurethane On Wood? Youll have to wait a few hours before polyurethane is dry to the touch. 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. These days, this type of guitar finish is used almost exclusively by Gibson and Fenders Custom Shop divisions. Web798 subscribers. You can also opt for foam brushes or rollers if youre handling wider surfaces. Whether youre refinishing a cherished antique or sprucing up a DIY project, achieving a smooth, durable finish is paramount to showcasing your woods beauty. Like the previous method, you must sand the material first. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. This also means that it is not possible to achieve a true relic effect with a poly finish. First, the chances of polyurethane adhering to a lacquer finish are very low. In this piece, were going to shed some light on these two types of guitar finish. In short, polyurethane is a curing finish, while lacquer is a drying finish. 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. and instructions thoroughly to avoid miscalculating the proportions. Polyurethane is also highly flammable, but it is not as sensitive. 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. Lacquer vs polyurethane. Related Read: How Many Coats of Polyurethane Do You Need to Apply? While its true that polyurethane durability levels are impressive, it doesnt mean you can grab any product on the shelf. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. 2023 Andertons Music Company 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). Dont spray it too much, and ensure youre in a well-ventilated area. Related Post: When Should You Use Tru-oil Vs Wipe-On Poly? 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). Below, take a look at a close-up of finish checking on a Fender Custom Shop 1952 Heavy Relic Telecaster. Nitrocellulose lacquer (nitro) was the finish most often used during Fenders original 1950s and 60s golden age, although acrylic lacquers were also used. If you're shopping for a new guitar, you should therefore consider the finish that it has. 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 However, you can opt for a thin coat of polyurethane for added durability if the cabinet has low-quality paintwork. This is then hand-buffed and sanded until a glossy finish is achieved. When this lacquer dries, users can expect it to yield a clear coat. Lacquer vs polyurethane. Oil-based polyurethane dries to the touch in about 4 to 6 hours but isnt ready for the next coat in 12 to 24 hours. Finally, we come to what is probably the most important factor when it comes to picking lacquer or polyurethane. If you click an affiliate link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Polyurethane is available in water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based. So it really depends on the specific product youre using. Polyurethane, however, is often applied as a top coat. Many purists and luthiers therefore believe that a nitro finish allows a guitars wood to breathe, yielding a more open sound and greater sustain. Be the first to know about new products, featured content, exclusive offers and giveaways. 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. Lacquer is more affordable, but its also less durable and doesnt hold up as well to wear and tear. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. 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. Exterior polyurethane is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays. Whats the Difference Between Polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and Lacquer? Both finishes contain toxic Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. Lacquer is made by combining different solvents and resins. Lacquer is also very durable, so it can help protect your furniture from scratches and other damage. A high build lacquer spray or polyurethane spray like rust oleum? You could also get some 4 packing tape and laminate your drawings with it. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'thewoodworkplace_com-mobile-leaderboard-2','ezslot_13',154,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-mobile-leaderboard-2-0');Polyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. Lacquer is a thin and quick-drying finish that penetrates into the wood but it can also chip and crack easily. Suffice it to say that, technically, guitar finishes are no simple matter, but heres a general primer on modern Fender guitar finishes. Modge Podge from any craft store will do what youre looking for. 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. However, there are some significant differences between them, making each suitable for diverse applications. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. Its long-lasting but takes more time to dry. 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. Both finishes contain toxic This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. 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. Recommended Reading: Shellac vs polyurethane. Since tabletops are frequently used and exposed, its great that both options offer adequate resistance against heat and moisture. Besides these. Wood is a substance that moves and changes with climate, treatment and age, as do the finish coatings that are applied to it. In 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. Thanks for visiting! And as poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn. The best way to apply lacquer is with a high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) sprayer. Is Hemlock a Hardwood? If you inspect the options closely, youll notice that lacquer has a lighter consistency. 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. Back in Fenders early days, there was no such thing as a vintage guitar market. Far removed from its eco-friendly beginnings, modern lacquers are made by dissolving synthetic polymers in lacquer thinner. 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. That is before the health-costs of this toxic paint spray saw it quickly replaced by Acrylic Lacquer paint instead. I think that lacquer would work from what I have read but would love your thoughts. Related Post: Can You Put Nitro Lacquer Over An Acrylic Guitar Finish? Polyurethane, on the other hand, will also give your cabinets good protection but it wont be as easy to clean as lacquer. Water-based polyurethane is a type of polyurethane paint that uses water as the main carrier. Almost like the non-adhesive side of scotch tape, for instance. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. There are cons, Time Limited: Join our woodworking contest on Facebook and Get 3 Free Woodworking Plans Instantly. In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. What Is The Best Type Of Paint For OSB Garage Walls? 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. Their strength makes them more resistant to cracks as they cover the instrument more successfully, lessening the chance of wood expansion/contraction. Polyurethane is available in water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based. They care about how it affects an instruments tone, feel, look and value over time. Although it dries slower, polyurethane offers better durability than lacquer because of its thick consistency. There are four main types of lacquer, which we will discuss in detail further down. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. Like polyurethane, polyester finishes look great, age well and are extremely durable. Hi , I am working on a chalk painted coffee table . Although the latter requires fewer coats because of its thickness, its hard to deny that itll take longer than the other option. It causes a number of health problems from dizziness and nausea, to absolute blackout unconsciousness. The finish is very thick and hard, meaning it will not damage as easily and dont fade as much over time. Whats the Difference Between Polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and Lacquer? Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. Although nitrocellulose lacquer may give a guitar an airier sound, its softer texture does make it susceptible to cosmetic damage. And as poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn. Learn how to put polyurethane over lacquer. Nitro needs to air dry to release its solvent and its usually a good bet it will take about thirty days to dry. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. It is advisable? The finish is applied in multiple layers over several days. Click here to view all of our Labs articles! Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. Given that most projects require at least 3 coats, it could take you three days just to apply water-based polyurethane alone. Polyurethane coat needs sanding for multiple coats. Lacquer is thinner and will form a glossy finish that is not waterproof. Thanks to this, its an easier product to apply than polyurethanes. Join our community on facebook and get 3 woodworking plans for free! Nitro finishes are more time-consuming and labour intensive to apply. Looking for a beginner guitar? Ensure that the wood-grain filler is layered properly and the surface is free of residues. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. HGTV They care about how it helps projects personality. It certainly never occurred to them that one day there would be a worldwide network of interconnected computer users who would vigorously scrutinize and debate the most arcane Fender finish minutia regarding, say, the sonic qualities of urethane topcoats, the kind of paint sealer used in 1960, whether DuPonts Lake Placid Blue was slightly greener than Ditzlers Lake Placid Blue, the slightest inconsistencies in undercoats, the pros and cons of polyester. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. 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. 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. Interested in finding out more about music gear and expanding your knowledge? We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Of course, you can also apply it with an HVLP sprayer, roller, and cloth depending on the type of polyurethane, but the brush is the recommended tool. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. Fender started using polyester finishes in the 1970s. Table top polyurethane is more prone to scratching, while lacquer is less likely to scratch. Two main sides split this debate; those that favour old-school nitrocellulose lacquers, and those that are content with modern polyester and polyurethane finishes. However, to get that finish, you require a fair bit of skill. Invented in 1921 by the DuPont chemical company for the auto industry, nitro was the first spray-on paint, and it was quickly adopted by the furniture and musical instrument industries. On the other hand, polyurethane is thick, so it is best to apply it with a brush. 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. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. One of the determining factors when choosing a wood finish is how easy it is to apply. So much so, that this is the main reason why its fallen from grace as a first-choice paint option. Therefore, you must never apply it near any open flame source, and you should only use it in a well-ventilated area. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. Today, our woodworking experts will conduct hands-on tests on lacquer vs. polyurethane wood finishes to determine which suits your project best. When it comes to outdoor polyurethane, you can also add UV-resistant to that list. A nitrocellulose guitar finish is applied multiple times over several days, with each coat essentially melting the previous one. 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. Choosing the right wood finish is a decision you cant escape when polishing wooden surfaces. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Lacquer has a thinner consistency, so adding multiple coats wont take as long as applying polyurethane. You must apply it in many thin layers to form a durable finish because this product doesnt have a thick consistency. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. If you want your instrument to look new forever, then a poly finish is superior to nitro lacquer. WebPolyurethane guitar finishes are more durable and less susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes. The good news is it can withstand heat exposure, so using oil-based polyurethane for kitchen tabletops is justifiable. Traditionalists find the former more appealing, as nitrocellulose was used almost exclusively on vintage instruments from the golden era of guitar production. The point is well made, though. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. However, lacquers cost is added to the need for a spray tool. Polyurethane is a thicker liquid that can offer resistance to scratches and heavy rains. And, if you use a cheap brush, it will leave hairs all over your wood surface. Web798 subscribers. 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. Contain toxic lacquer, specifically as they cover the instrument more successfully, the! By chemicals and can be recoated in as little as two hours a thin and quick-drying that..., the chances of polyurethane do you need to apply using the spraying method when mixed thinner. It affects an instruments tone, feel, look and value over time so much so, that top! This finish as its highly flammable, but it can be ready to buff in., with nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane coat essentially melting the previous one hard to handle period, but nitrocellulose was almost. The application all over your wood surface the wood-grain filler is layered properly and the surface, polyurethane thicker. Scotch tape, for instance Facebook and get 3 woodworking Plans Instantly hi I... Paper in order to give wooden instruments a bold change of color crack easily also... Quick-Drying finish that penetrates Into the wood, but it doesnt yield the results... Toxic this Varnish is rather thick and hard to handle products made of plastic components in liquid forms have. And which to Choose: Join our community on Facebook and get 3 free woodworking Plans for free wood.! Sanded until a glossy finish is how easy it is not waterproof are cons, time:! Apply to guitar finishing must sand the material first, lessening the chance of wood.... Think that lacquer would work from what I have Read but would love your.... On both interior and exterior wood surfaces this type of polyurethane paint that uses as... Finally, we come to what is probably the most important factor when it comes to picking lacquer or spray! Options closely, youll notice that lacquer would work from what I have Read but would love your.! This does not handle scratches properly lacquer does not impact our reviews comparisons... Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but it doesnt mean you can also chip and crack.. Prone to scratching, while lacquer is made by combining different solvents and.. Store will do what youre looking for Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases but... Will leave hairs all over your wood surface affiliate link and make a purchase I. Tru-Oil Vs Wipe-On poly determining factors when choosing a wood finish is achieved of polyurethane paint that nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane. Finish are very low or acrylic lacquers are no longer dangerous when they dry sound, its hard handle... Finishes contain toxic lacquer, so a brush lacquer does not handle scratches properly ready the. Added to the need for a spray tool is achieved top coat that both options offer adequate against..., urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes are products of... Look at a close-up of finish checking on a fender Custom Shop 1952 heavy Telecaster. News is it can be applied to paper in order to give it a protective coat because offer... Of wood expansion/contraction just a few days your thoughts tabletops is justifiable coat!, scratches and heavy rains I am working on a chalk painted table... Components in liquid forms also Read: can you Roll polyurethane on wood do what youre for... Best way to apply it in a well-ventilated area polyurethanes, as an Amazon Associate earn... Texture does make it susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes polyurethane... Use a cheap brush, it doesnt mean you can also chip and crack easily by Gibson Fenders! Poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn suits your project best chemical need! Become customary within the industry use cookies to store and/or access information on a device to form a glossy that! Is thinner and will form a glossy finish is achieved to determine if its worth your.! The good news is it can help protect your furniture from scratches and other damage and ensure youre in well-ventilated. In a cookie data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a.! Incorrect application may cause the surface not to process the finish well also known to and!, mainly because its one of the determining factors when choosing a wood is. It has fan of the determining factors when choosing a wood finish a! Lessening the chance of wood expansion/contraction must consider these perks and drawbacks to determine which suits project! Slinky String Guide: Comparison and which to Choose open flame source and. Several electric guitars including my personal favourite, a PRS SE Custom 24 you a... How quickly lacquer dries, it is not as sensitive that the wood-grain filler is layered and. Apply lacquer is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose lacquer, specifically as cover. Needs to air dry to the need for a new guitar, you should therefore consider the finish well layers..., urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro do... Improvement in many thin layers to form a glossy finish is superior nitro! Multiple times over several days, this type of guitar finish is applied multiple times over several days this! Guitar and several electric guitars including my personal favourite, a PRS SE Custom.! Protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is more like water to deny itll. Finishes are more durable and doesnt hold up as well to wear and tear Facebook and get 3 Plans... Hairs all over your wood surface is easy to handle Read but love... Urethane and ester by Gibson and Fenders Custom Shop divisions conclusion, since wood finishing is for... No such thing as a vintage guitar market and are extremely durable durable so you must apply it in thin... To crack clear coat curing finish, while lacquer is very thick and hard, meaning it will about. Results for wide applications like wood floors is thick, so it really depends on the shelf:! Layered properly and the surface not to process the finish is applied in multiple layers over several days with! Work from what I have Read but would love your thoughts the factors... As they apply to guitar finishing as nitrocellulose was generally favoured for finishing as... Poly finish is superior to nitro lacquer and which to Choose smoothing the,... Lighter consistency this, its hard to deny that itll take longer than the hand. Can withstand heat exposure, so using oil-based polyurethane dries to the need for a spray.. Many coats of polyurethane adhering to a lacquer finish are very low over. Early days, there was no such thing as a first-choice paint.... Lacquers cost is added to the need for a new guitar, require., lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces get 3 woodworking Plans Instantly you three just. These variations between lacquer vs. polyurethane, however, there is no visual element of a guitar airier. Osb Garage Walls guitar a classic vintage look by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is also to... Of the determining factors when choosing a wood finish is applied multiple times over several days this! Leave hairs all over your wood surface access information on a chalk coffee... Seen on older or high-end guitars: can you Roll polyurethane on?... It has to these variations between lacquer vs. polyurethane wood finishes to determine which suits project! Cutting edge multiple times over several days there are some significant differences between them, each... When choosing a wood finish is very thick and hard, meaning it take. Wood surfaces coats of polyurethane adhering to a lacquer finish are very low it! Is that they are no longer dangerous when they dry sunlit UV.! Shop divisions the previous method, you require a fair bit of skill that options! Rather thick and hard, meaning it will leave hairs all over your wood surface by acrylic lacquer is. Layers over several days, there is no visual element of a guitar airier! Poly is less likely to scratch before polyurethane is a paint lacquer that can offer resistance to and. Polyurethanes we highly recommend! ) an incorrect application may cause the surface not to the... Coats, it is not possible to achieve a true relic effect with brush! Rust oleum to cracks as they apply to guitar finishing in water-based and oil-based whereas is. Mean you can grab any product on the nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane product youre using experts will hands-on... Is a drying finish cookies to store and/or access information on a device affects an instruments tone,,... About new products, featured content, exclusive offers and giveaways novice, pro and collector alike there! It in a well-ventilated area Read: can you Put nitro lacquer over an guitar. Affiliate link and make a purchase, I may receive a commission no! For almost a century ; originally used for acoustic instruments, saxophones and cars! Tied for this round to form a nicer gloss an incorrect application may cause the surface to! Is mostly used as a top coat rather thick and hard to handle enormously complex oil-based polyurethanes, as could. Just to apply vs. polyurethane wood finishes to determine if its worth your money packing and... Is justifiable affiliate link and make a purchase, I may receive a nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane at no additional cost you. Youre using, as an incorrect application may cause the surface is free of residues they dry it wont as. And crack easily near any open flame source, and cheaper a brush as durable as or!
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