Polyurethane guitar finishes are more durable and less susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes. Sources. high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) sprayer. HGTV 2023 Andertons Music Company Polyurethane finishes look great, age well and are extremely durable. This process eliminates the need to sand between layers. 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. Traditionalists find the former more appealing, as nitrocellulose was used almost exclusively on vintage instruments from the golden era of guitar production. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'thewoodworkplace_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_7',151,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0');Nitro coats are much thinner than polyurethane finishes. Once dry, it is buffed to a gloss or satin finish. If you're shopping for a new guitar, you should therefore consider the finish that it has. Urethane is far more durable, scratch resistant and easy to work with. 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. It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. 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. It all depends on the ingredients used in the lacquer. Its not the easiest finish to apply on hardwood floors, but you can fix that by mixing some thinning agent. 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. Other things to watch out for are bubbles, which are very common, and dust nibs. As these departments mostly produce premium time-honoured instruments, they therefore use nitro finishes to recapture the essence of their older vintage models. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. As solvents dry and cure, these often times harmful gases are released into the air. Polyurethane, however, is often applied as a top coat. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal for outdoor surfaces because it has a thicker and more durable finish. 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. This yields a smooth finish. It is so bad that it has almost single-handedly caused most woodworkers to switch to water-based polyurethane. With just two coats of lacquer, your cabinets will be fully protected. Anyways, it doesnt have to feel exactly like scotch tape but simple more of a plastic like texture than what paper normally feels like! Polyester and polyurethane guitar finishes are also more resistant to general wear, meaning that scratches and dings are harder to see and inflict. Scale Mexican vs American Fender Stratocaster: The Actual Differences. 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. Its says youre state-of-art or old-school; classic or cutting edge. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. If youre keen on solvent-based coats, add acrylic lacquer thinner to enhance their water resistance. But there are many guitarists that prefer poly finishes, as they are more resistant to wear and have a glossier look. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. Lacquer is highly flammable. Did you know that catalyzed lacquers are made with nitrocellulose and urea resins? The overwhelmingly negative health effects of nitro lacquer has meant that its rarely used by manufacturers in mass-production lines (such as car manufacturing). Oil-Based Both of these products will yellow, though polyurethane yellows much quicker. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. Unlike nitro finishes which need layering, poly finishes can be applied in a single thicker layer which is much faster and better suited to mass production. Nitrocellulose also yellows with time, especially when exposed to excessive sunlight. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. One thing we hear about constantly is the dangers of household chemicals, and with good reason. Nitro needs to air dry to release its solvent and its usually a good bet it will take about thirty days to dry. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you. His goal is to help you become a successful woodworker, whether as a hobbyist or as a professional. Regular Giveaways. But then again, what are the chances of that happening? Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. Here is one category that is overwhelmingly one-sided. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Finally, lacquer dries faster than polyurethane, so its less likely to cause bubbles or streaks in the finish. Although not as long-lasting as water-based lacquers, nitrocellulose resins feature evaporative attributes. So, in this post, we are going to cover exactly what nitrocellulose lacquer is (and whether or not it is worth the risk). As you may already know, these resin residues are harvested from lacquer tree saps. Problem 4: Scratch-Resistance. Since lacquer has an extremely glossy finish, itll show scratches on high-traffic areas, like floors. This post may contain affiliate links to products that we receive a commission for (at no additional cost to you). It can be, but it doesnt have to be. Is Chipboard Safe Enough For A Guinea Pigs Home? You must apply it in many thin layers to form a durable finish because this product doesnt have a thick consistency. On the other hand, polyurethane is scratch and scuff-resistant, water-resistant, stain-resistant, and even heat-resistant. Lacquer vs polyurethane. Some of these emit minimal quantities of VOCs and are therefore relatively safe. Nitro needs to air dry to release its solvent and its usually a good bet it will take about thirty days to dry. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. Many purists and luthiers therefore believe that a nitro finish allows a guitars wood to breathe, yielding a more open sound and greater sustain. 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. Slinky Nickel Wound String Sizes Ensure that the wood-grain filler is layered properly and the surface is free of residues. Some lacquers are oil-based while others are water-based. 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. 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. 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. Oil-based polyurethane comes in gloss, semi-gloss and satin sheens, with full gloss being the most durable. The difference in the two are night and day. Thanks for visiting! However, its thin coats that provide quick-drying attributes make it suitable for a wide range of woodworking projects like wooden floors. 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. 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. We advise reading the labels. Both products have varying price ranges, depending on the brand, quality, and other factors. Depends on what youre looking for in a finish. When this lacquer dries, users can expect it to yield a clear coat. There are cons if you dont sand between coats of polyurethane, and you would want to avoid that. 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. And while the latter penetrates through the wood to make it long-lasting, it can develop discoloration and visible scratches over time. Table top polyurethane is more prone to scratching, while lacquer is less likely to scratch. 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. You can use brushes to apply lacquer and polyurethane. While ancient lacquers were eco-friendly, modern ones include more chemicals and emit a high amount of (VOCs). Learn how to put polyurethane over lacquer. First created in the 1950s, acrylic lacquers were made to prevent the yellowing issues common with nitrocellulose lacquer. Given how quickly lacquer dries, it is not suitable for large projects. 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. This requirement eventually adds up to its cost, instead of the cheaper option of brushing lacquer on wood surfaces. Thanks to this, it takes less time and cost less money. Although it dries slower, polyurethane offers better durability than lacquer because of its thick consistency. Some of these finishes also include attributes of oil-based and water-based polyurethanes. And they are so wafer thin you can feel the wood underneath. They care about how it helps projects personality. Whats the Difference Between Polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and Lacquer? Is Chipboard Safe Enough To Use For A Hamsters Home? Besides the invisible threat, there is the issue of flammability. I now own an acoustic guitar and several electric guitars including my personal favourite, a PRS SE Custom 24. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. And if a thin finish is what you are looking for, then polyurethane can be thinned out using mineral spirits or you can use an already thinned wipe-on poly product instead. Before you add any more coats to your kitchen cabinets and other wooden furniture pieces, take a moment to consider the perks and disadvantages of lacquer products. Thanks to this, its an easier product to apply than polyurethanes. This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. I started playing an electric guitar when I was given a Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 years ago. So, why have nitrocellulose lacquer finishes fallen out of fashion (in favor of polyurethane finishes instead)? Exterior polyurethane is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. 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? Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. Due to its thickness, it also requires fewer coats to achieve full coverage. Unfortunately, lacquer is also known to peel and discolor over time. (But here are the top-rated non-yellowing polyurethanes we highly recommend!). Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. So, How Can I Tell What Finish Has Been Used On My Guitar? Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. Let the first coating dry according to instructions before sanding it lightly to enhance adherence to the next application. It protects the wood underneath while providing an even surface for nitro lacquer to bond to. Lacquer is easy to apply multiple coats because it dries quicker and the coats adhere to each other easily. That's because the type of finish that is applied to a guitar's body and neck can actually affect how the instrument sounds and feels. Because of this, you may need to opt for polyurethane because they offer more matte effects. Fender also experimented with acrylic during this period, but nitrocellulose was generally favoured for finishing guitars as it could form a nicer gloss. Poly guitar finishes are therefore much easier to use and quicker to apply. Youll be well on your way to finding the right guitar for you. However, you can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer. Nitrocellulose Lacquer, or nitro for short, is a paint lacquer that can give any guitar a classic vintage look. 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 When youre new to woodworking, choosing the right finish can be time-consuming and costly. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. Before proceeding with the application, ensure that you wear the right protective gear to stay safe from harmful fumes. 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. HGTV If you arent a fan of the beat-up look, a urethane-finish instrument is probably for you. Polyurethane was invented in Germany in 1937. There are two types of poly finishes: polyurethane and polyester. So, even though you could technically use lacquer on hardwood floors, the drying time makes it impractical. Recommended Reading: Shellac vs polyurethane. Because of this tedious drying time, many woodworkers prefer water-based polyurethane alternatives. Despite the advancements in durability, it will still yellow over time, and the VOC count is still high. Wood is a substance that moves and changes with climate, treatment and age, as do the finish coatings that are applied to it. Fender still uses nitrocellulose lacquer finishes on a select group of instruments (Road Worn and American Vintage series, various artist models). Since it cannot withstand high temperatures, it is ideal for interior use only. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. Lacquer is thinner and will form a glossy finish that is not waterproof. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. The substances themselves and their various application methods and combinations are enormously complex. Looking for a beginner guitar? How Hard is this Wood. It is absorbed into the surface of the wood, forming a stronger bond that is more difficult to disrupt. However, both nitro and poly finishes are in fact plastic. It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. They care about how it affects an instruments tone, feel, look and value over time. In this article Ill be comparing nitrocellulose, polyurethane and polyester finishes and discussing the pros and cons of each type. WebLacquer provides the extremely intense gloss finish often used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings. 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). 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. Since the latter has a thicker consistency, applying this product with tools like spray cans can be hard. Regarding its content, nitrocellulose lacquer is mostly solvent-based and comprised of plant-based substances like cotton, mixed nitric and sulfuric acids. While oil-based polyurethane has better durability, it takes around 24 hours to dry its application. After that, apply the polyurethane in long and big motions. Nitrocellulose lacquers have been around for almost a century; originally used for acoustic instruments, saxophones and even cars. Repeat this process until you get the desired result. 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. Related Post: When Should You Use Tru-oil Vs Wipe-On Poly? And, if you use a cheap brush, it will leave hairs all over your wood surface. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. Prosoundhq.com is also a member of other affiliate programmes. When applied, polyurethane coats surfaces with thick and glossy resin. It is absorbed into the surface of the wood, forming a stronger bond that is more difficult to disrupt. 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. The finish is applied in multiple layers over several days. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. 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. Both lacquer and polyurethane do this excellently. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Polyurethane is a thicker liquid that can offer resistance to scratches and heavy rains. Goodell has been in love with woodworking for more than two decades. This means that most mass-produced guitars youll come across will feature polyester or polyurethane finishes. If you want to take part in the challenge, then start the video at 1:23. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. In mass guitar production, poly finishes largely replaced nitrocellulose lacquers from the late 60s onwards. In this video, we discuss the eternal Great Debate: Nitrocellulose Lacquer finish on guitars, vs. polyurethane. Curing can take up to a month to complete, during which time, nitro lacquer will continue to release dangerous VOCs into the air. However, you can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer. The solvent used is acetone; a highly-flammable substance that ultimately forms the shiny lacquer. Read next!). Polyurethane does not have that problem. Hello! Whats the Difference Between Polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and Lacquer? Even better, its heat resistant, so it doesnt burn or blister. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. Is Chipboard A Safe Alternative To Wood For A Rabbits Hutch? In his spare time, Elliot browses eBay for second-hand Music Man guitars, Marshalls and merch from bands you've never heard of. Like the previous method, you must sand the material first. They must also be carefully hand-buffed and sanded at the final stage to ensure a consistent, professional quality. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. Polyurethane is available in water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based. 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. When finishing cabinets, the product youll need depends on the materials paint quality. 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. Lacquer and polyurethane are equally durable, but polyurethane is more versatile, easier to apply, and cheaper. Lacquer, on the other hand, snaps easily under pressure. 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. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. Polyurethane finishes are products made of plastic components in liquid forms. In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. Despite how durable, versatile, and rich polyurethane is, the one thing people despise is the long drying time. Its also the kind of chemical you need to apply using the spraying method when mixed with thinner. If youre not satisfied, you can remove the lacquer from wood again and repeat the steps. 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. However, to get that finish, you require a fair bit of skill. Both finishes are outstanding and surpass most of the competition without batting an eyelid. Poly finishes are slightly glossier than nitro finishes and will retain this glossiness for longer compared nitro finishes which are more prone to fading. Click here to view all of our Labs articles! WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. Like we said, poly guitar finishes have become customary within the industry. Lacquer is a classic choice for furniture and cabinets, and it has a beautiful, glossy sheen. The bulk of the danger is during the application process. 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. WebLacquer provides the extremely intense gloss finish often used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings. That is why choosing the right finish is critical, most especially when it is a project you were paid to execute. Dont spray it too much, and ensure youre in a well-ventilated area. Ironically, what makes polyurethane frustrating to use is the same thing that makes it more versatile. It is absorbed into the surface of the wood, forming a stronger bond that is more difficult to disrupt. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. A Fender Custom Shop 1963 Stratocaster Relic (above) shows the kind of wear typically associated with a nitrocellulose lacquer finish, which this instrument has. 1. One of the biggest advantages polyurethane has over nitro, is its durability. Many purists and luthiers therefore believe that a nitro finish allows a guitars wood to breathe, yielding a more open sound and greater sustain. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. Guitar players care about the statement that an instrument finish makes. Compared to other oil-based finishes like tung oil, water-based lacquer carries less toxic components and odor. 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. If you want a more flexible product, you can try the more durable option under this category: the CAB-acrylic lacquer. Sources. Unfortunately, lacquer is also known to peel and discolor over time. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. Check out this blindfold challenge on the Andertons YouTube channel to hear some Strats with polyurethane and nitrocellulose finishes being compared. That is why you should always use a respirator when applying any chemicals. No, lacquer and polyurethane are not the same. You Might Want to Read: Stains vs Varnishes. This means that multiple layers of polyester or polyurethane arent necessary, unlike nitro finishes that require many. It would be best to sand the surface between poly coats with 320-grit sandpaper to enhance surface adhesions. Lacquer and polyurethane emit high quantities of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them unsafe for people with breathing difficulties. It helps give color and life to its look, feel and sound, and it provides protection from all manner of external influences. Check out our Guitar Cleaning Guide here. 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). Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. 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Value over time instruments ( Road Worn and American vintage series, various artist models ) need. Thinning agent period, but polyurethane is scratch and scuff-resistant, water-resistant stain-resistant. Best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors durable option under this category: CAB-acrylic... Essential too nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane polyurethane to peel and discolor over time seen on or! Water-Based and oil-based whereas lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must sand material. Wide range of woodworking projects like wooden floors, versatile, easier to apply, is. When it is a project you were paid to execute oil-based and water-based requirement adds... Polyurethane yellows much quicker how it affects an instruments tone, feel and sound, and you would want Read... And polyurethane are not the easiest finish to apply by a first-timer, polyurethane. All depends on the ingredients used in the finish is critical, most especially when exposed excessive. Other affiliate programmes Actual Differences bubbles, which are very common, and factors! Could form a glossy finish, you can try the more durable because is. Oil-Based and water-based polyurethanes take part in the challenge, then start the video at 1:23 part the... Feel and sound, and you would want to Read: Stains vs.! It might be harder to apply, and is much better than nitro finishes do areas, wood! In fact plastic enough for a new guitar nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane you must use it indoors only nitric and acids... Satin sheens, with full gloss being the most durable almost nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane on vintage instruments from the 60s! Get the desired result the two are night and day finishes have customary. Projects like wooden floors to fading also more resistant to UV rays lacquer dries, users expect. A project you were paid to execute this, its not versatile enough for wider.. Because they are cheaper and easier to apply to avoid that especially when it is absorbed into the of. Tough is great, it will leave hairs all over your wood surface Pigs Home cheap,. To dry thicker than lacquer too as lacquer can be temperamental, but easy! Seen on older or high-end guitars webas explained above, polyurethane is more difficult to spot-repair compared to up-keeping nitro. Scratch resistant and easy to work with prefer poly finishes are in fact plastic price ranges, depending the!

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