By its color, its pattern and its conditionpristine, battered or somewhere in betweenthe finish is a defining element of your instrument and your musical identity. 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. Problem 4: Scratch-Resistance. Nitrocellulose lacquer (nitro) was the finish most often used during Fenders original 1950s and 60s golden age, although acrylic lacquers were also used. Besides that, all lacquers offer little protection from heat and chemicals. These added benefits of acrylic lacquer come with the downside of being more expensive than nitrocellulose lacquer. [3 Key Comparisons]. Learn more here. Since it cannot withstand high temperatures, it is ideal for interior use only. For example, oil-based polyurethane gives a warm glow to wood, and it yellows over time. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. One significant advantage of poly finishes is their durability. Back in Fenders early days, there was no such thing as a vintage guitar market. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. Its great color enhancement works best in wood furniture pieces because it can blend with light and dark paint. Check out this blindfold challenge on the Andertons YouTube channel to hear some Strats with polyurethane and nitrocellulose finishes being compared. Once dry, it is buffed to a gloss or satin finish. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. Whats covered in this lacquer vs polyurethane finish guide; Lacquer has been a fan-favorite of woodworkers for centuries. Nitrocellulose lacquers have been around for almost a century; originally used for acoustic instruments, saxophones and even cars. Whats interesting, though, is that a lot of high-end guitars are deliberately damaged and worn to create an aged look. On the other hand, polyurethane is best for high-traffic areas such as floors, tables, countertops, and bars. Nitro needs to air dry to release its solvent and its usually a good bet it will take about thirty days to dry. Nitrocellulose are predominantly used in high-end guitars, however are less commonly used today compared to in the 50s and 60s where both Fender and Gibson utilised them. These are the gases found in solvent-based chemicals. Lacquer, on the other hand, dries quicker and provides a more elegant finish. Consult the manuals for the correct drying duration. A high build lacquer spray or polyurethane spray like rust oleum? On the other hand, polyurethane is thick, so it is best to apply it with a brush. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. Polyurethane, however, is often applied as a top coat. On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal for outdoor surfaces because it has a thicker and more durable finish. WebPolyurethane guitar finishes are more durable and less susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes. It's applied via a sprayer, because it is thinner than the other finishes. Join Our Woodworking Community on Facebook And Get 3 Woodworking Plans for Free! Polyurethane guitar finishes are more durable and less susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes. Costs less than applying polyurethane finishes, Consult the manuals for the correct drying duration. Join our community on facebook and get 3 woodworking plans for free! 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. This means that dings and scratches are more visible on guitars with nitro finishes, and much easier to inflict. 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. Far removed from its eco-friendly beginnings, modern lacquers are made by dissolving synthetic polymers in lacquer thinner. And it definitely bears remembering that these finishes are applied to products fashioned from once-living organic plant matter; namely, wood. In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. However, there are some significant differences between them, making each suitable for diverse applications. That is why choosing the right finish is critical, most especially when it is a project you were paid to execute. They must also be carefully hand-buffed and sanded at the final stage to ensure a consistent, professional quality. Looking for a beginner guitar? 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. 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. Finally, we come to what is probably the most important factor when it comes to picking lacquer or polyurethane. That is before the health-costs of this toxic paint spray saw it quickly replaced by Acrylic Lacquer paint instead. Given how thick polyurethane can be, it is rarely used for high-end furniture. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. Many purists and luthiers therefore believe that a nitro finish allows a guitars wood to breathe, yielding a more open sound and greater sustain. A Fender Custom Shop 1963 Stratocaster Relic (above) shows the kind of wear typically associated with a nitrocellulose lacquer finish, which this instrument has. To Wrap Up, Is Nitro Better Than Polyurethane (Or Vice Versa)? The bulk of the danger is during the application process. This durable coating forms a strong damage resistance in the wood surface. 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. 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. Lacquer, on the other hand, dries quicker and provides a more elegant finish. And as poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn. 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. But there are many guitarists that prefer poly finishes, as they are more resistant to wear and have a glossier look. However, you can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer. If youre not keen on mixing it, you can buy a ready-to-use pre-catalyzed lacquer. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. You must apply it in many thin layers to form a durable finish because this product doesnt have a thick consistency. Its says youre state-of-art or old-school; classic or cutting edge. Another problem when applying polyurethane is the need to sand between coats. Once nitrocellulose lacquer is applied over a wooden surface, itll form a protective layer to resist damage. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. In this article I'll be comparing the different Ernie Ball Slinky string sets and how to choose the right ones for your electric guitar. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. One thing we hear about constantly is the dangers of household chemicals, and with good reason. Polyurethane is more like a protective plastic that coats wood surfaces, while lacquer behaves like water as it penetrates the wood. Although all lacquer finishes share some of the qualities mentioned above, significant variances give some edge over polyurethane. Oil-Based As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. Lacquer vs polyurethane. So, How Can I Tell What Finish Has Been Used On My Guitar? 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. WebLacquer provides the extremely intense gloss finish often used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings. high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) sprayer. Given how quickly lacquer dries, it is not suitable for large projects. It is absorbed into the surface of the wood, forming a stronger bond that is more difficult to disrupt. A nitrocellulose guitar finish is applied multiple times over several days, with each coat essentially melting the previous one. However, if there is no physical or chemical damage, lacquer can last as long as or even longer than polyurethane. It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. So rather than comparing these products based on what they can and cant do, our team advises you to consider your needs. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. They look glossy, not plastic like polyurethane. While it is hard to draw a firm line between the two, there are instances in which one will outperform the other. It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. After full application, the solvent chemicals are left to fully dissolve; leaving a dry resin-like texture. Here's your primer Into the world of finishes. Polyurethane was invented in Germany in 1937. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. Lacquer vs Polyurethane Finish Which is Better for You? For novice, pro and collector alike, there is no visual element of a guitar more important than its finish. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. This requirement eventually adds up to its cost, instead of the cheaper option of brushing lacquer on wood surfaces. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. 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. Lacquer is thinner and will form a glossy finish that is not waterproof. Nitrocellulose Lacquer, or nitro for short, is a paint lacquer that can give any guitar a classic vintage look. Despite the advancements in durability, it will still yellow over time, and the VOC count is still high. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. And, if you use a cheap brush, it will leave hairs all over your wood surface. 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. Polyurethane is a thicker liquid that can offer resistance to scratches and heavy rains. Take a step back and assess which option will get the job done better. 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. However, once nitro cures, it becomes non-toxic. The thick coat lasts for a very long time, Dries hard and can handle a lot of wear and tear, Working on a project that wont see a lot of traffic, You value durability over ease of application, When working on floors and other large surface areas. Its also the kind of chemical you need to apply using the spraying method when mixed with thinner. Fender also experimented with acrylic during this period, but nitrocellulose was generally favoured for finishing guitars as it could form a nicer gloss. (How about painting over a lacquer finish? Water-based alternatives are less toxic and faster at drying than oil-based polyurethane. Apart from the above, small cracks can appear in a nitro finish after several years too. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. Wonder why it's so smooth? Thanks to this, it takes less time and cost less money. Lacquer is thinner and will form a glossy finish that is not waterproof. When it comes to outdoor polyurethane, you can also add UV-resistant to that list. Is Chipboard A Safe Alternative To Wood For A Rabbits Hutch? Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. Although nitro finishes are more synonymous with premium instruments, it doesnt mean that poly finishes scream cheap. This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. 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. Aside from this, poly finishes are less likely to get scratched and chipped. If it does not, you have a poly finish. So, even though you could technically use lacquer on hardwood floors, the drying time makes it impractical. VOCs are Volatile Organic Compounds. Exterior polyurethane is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays. What works well with it ? While ancient lacquers were eco-friendly, modern ones include more chemicals and emit a high amount of (VOCs). Poly finishes can remain shiny even after decades of use, and dont fade away in the areas that youd typically make contact with. However, you can opt for a thin coat of polyurethane for added durability if the cabinet has low-quality paintwork. Polyurethane is a thicker liquid that can offer resistance to scratches and heavy rains. Both finishes contain toxic All of these make applying polyurethane, as a beginner, a bit challenging to use. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thewoodworkplace_com-leader-2','ezslot_8',152,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-leader-2-0');By dabbing it with Acetone. 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). Before adding the next coat, smoothen the area with 320-grit sandpaper and wipe it clean again. Urethane is far more durable, scratch resistant and easy to work with. Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. Nitro finishes are rarer today due to both the laborious application process and safety issues. Table top polyurethane is more prone to scratching, while lacquer is less likely to scratch. It can be wiped-on (or brushed on a little more thickly). What Is The Difference Between Nitro Lacquer and Acrylic Lacquer? Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. This is the most common type of lacquer and the one with the most defects. The finish is applied in multiple layers over several days. Regular Giveaways. We will also show you how you can check to see if your guitar has a nitro or polyurethane finish.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thewoodworkplace_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_4',184,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-large-leaderboard-2-0'); Plus, we will dive into why a thicker polyurethane finish may be just what your guitars tonewood needs instead. I want to preserve a horseshoe crab shell. It depends on the type of lacquer finish youll use. Now back to the two types of poly finishes: urethane and ester. Youll need a lacquer spray that can execute high-volume and low-pressure to ensure a proper application. It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. Although its a beautiful wood suitable for different. Thats because, while this finish can yellow with age, it doesnt leave your guitar looking dated. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. They care about how it affects an instruments tone, feel, look and value over time. Thanks for visiting! It possesses all of the unsavory characteristics above: it is not heat resistant, is highly flammable, yellows, and is highly toxic. 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. Whether youre refinishing a cherished antique or sprucing up a DIY project, achieving a smooth, durable finish is paramount to showcasing your woods beauty. Both finishes contain toxic First, the chances of polyurethane adhering to a lacquer finish are very low. However, you can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer. You must add an acid catalyst with the lacquers liquid form to help it cure well. The only problem with water-based polyurethane coatings is they cant stand against heat. However, lacquers cost is added to the need for a spray tool. Some lacquers are oil-based while others are water-based. It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. The good news is it can withstand heat exposure, so using oil-based polyurethane for kitchen tabletops is justifiable. Problem 4: Scratch-Resistance. Depends on what youre looking for in a finish. Repeat this process until you get the desired result. Is Chipboard Safe Enough For A Guinea Pigs Home? A guitars look is a major part of the statement that guitarists make to the world about themselves. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. Since tabletops are frequently used and exposed, its great that both options offer adequate resistance against heat and moisture. 3. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. These days, this type of guitar finish is used almost exclusively by Gibson and Fenders Custom Shop divisions. Nitro lacquers are also typically used on more expensive guitars as the application process is time-consuming and requires several layers. When applied to paper, would polyurethane and lacquer sprays give that plasticky feel to paper? Therefore, you must never apply it near any open flame source, and you should only use it in a well-ventilated area. And as we explained, nitrocellulose lacquer is thin and slightly porous, meaning that the wood its applied to is more prone to this issue. Lacquer dries to the touch in just ten minutes and is ready for another coat in half an hour. 2. When applied, polyurethane coats surfaces with thick and glossy resin. This yields a smooth finish. Is Chipboard Safe Enough To Use For A Hamsters Home? Can You Put Nitro Lacquer Over An Acrylic Guitar Finish? Although not as long-lasting as water-based lacquers, nitrocellulose resins feature evaporative attributes. His brainchild, Sawinery, allowed him to do so as well as connect with other craftsmen. Sources. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. One of the determining factors when choosing a wood finish is how easy it is to apply. If you want your instrument to look new forever, then a poly finish is superior to nitro lacquer. Although the latter requires fewer coats because of its thickness, its hard to deny that itll take longer than the other option. And while the latter penetrates through the wood to make it long-lasting, it can develop discoloration and visible scratches over time. 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. Ive written a complete buyers guide for electric guitars which takes you through all the things you need to consider and a step-by-step method to narrowing down your selection and choosing the best option. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. This lacquer also dries faster on the wood surface. A fan of '90s rock, vintage Formula 1 and offensive comedy he often feels like he was born in the wrong decade. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thewoodworkplace_com-leader-4','ezslot_11',155,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-leader-4-0');Still, because polyurethane is oil-based, (or water-based, depending on your product), it doesnt bring with it the negative health impact of a nitro paint spray. Web798 subscribers. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. They get thinner and more brittle as they age because the thinners in them continue to evaporate throughout an instruments lifetime. The solvent used is acetone; a highly-flammable substance that ultimately forms the shiny lacquer. 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. Im actually looking for something that could give my paper drawings and inkjet images a plasticky feel to it. Whats the difference between lacquer and polyurethane? WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. Sawinery is a one-stop source for anything woodworking-related. Polyurethane coat needs sanding for multiple coats. Polyester guitar finishes age and weather especially well and are seemingly immune to climate and injurythey are highly resistant to scratching and checking, and colors remain remarkably pristine. Polyurethane, on the other hand, will also give your cabinets good protection but it wont be as easy to clean as lacquer. As nitrocellulose is easy to damage and manipulate, most relicd guitars youll come across will have this finish. So it really depends on the specific product youre using. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. Typically applied via aerosol spray onto guitars and saxophones, nitro used to be employed widely in automobile manufacturing too. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. 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. Repeat this process until you get the desired result. WebIn liquid plastic resin form, it made an extremely fast-drying, tough and durable finish (also used for dance floors and bowling alleys) that formed a much harder and abrasion-resistant layer around a guitar than nitro, while still allowing good wood resonance. Here is a link to the article. The problem with this is you will often see brush marks and streaks. Both lacquer and polyurethane do this excellently. 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. So, to prevent further confusion, we are going to clear the air once and for all. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. Even better, its heat resistant, so it doesnt burn or blister. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. It is so bad that it has almost single-handedly caused most woodworkers to switch to water-based polyurethane. Also Read: Can You Roll Polyurethane On Wood? Both historically and today, a lot of science is involved in finish coatings for musical instruments. The finish is very thick and hard, meaning it will not damage as easily and dont fade as much over time. 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. Its thicker consistency makes it unsuitable for spraying, so a bristle brush is the best option. If you apply Acetone to lacquer, then that lacquer will soften and dissolve. Apart from their relative simplicity, poly guitar finishes are also a lot thicker and stronger than nitrocellulose, with a glossier look. You could also get some 4 packing tape and laminate your drawings with it. Because its slow drying, expert woodworkers generally prefer lacquer or water-based polyurethane over oil-based polyurethane. 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. A well-ventilated area buffed to a lacquer finish are very low that can offer resistance to scratches and rains! And dark paint smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces to buff out just... To do so as well as connect with other craftsmen is often applied nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane a beginner a! 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