Whats interesting, though, is that a lot of high-end guitars are deliberately damaged and worn to create an aged look. Lacquer has a watery consistency, which can be temperamental, but its easy to handle. Both finishes are outstanding and surpass most of the competition without batting an eyelid. 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. In his spare time, Elliot browses eBay for second-hand Music Man guitars, Marshalls and merch from bands you've never heard of. (But here are the top-rated non-yellowing polyurethanes we highly recommend!). Place it against the unnoticeable section of your guitar. There are two types of poly finishes: polyurethane and polyester. Given that water-based polyurethane is more commonly used, the VOCs from lacquer is a more pressing threat. Friendly Community. Home Wood Maintenance Polyurethane Lacquer vs Polyurethane Finish Which is Better for You? Like the previous method, you must sand the material first. (How about painting over a lacquer finish? It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. Sources. If youre looking to add a bit of extra luxury to your home, choosing pieces of furniture that are lacquered is a great way to do it. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. Some players are a big fan of the relic finishes which have an aged look due to the yellowing and cracks that appear over time in the nitrocellulose lacquer. Due to its thickness, it also requires fewer coats to achieve full coverage. Maybe Im an old-timer, but I love wooden projects. It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. Lacquer is a thin and quick-drying finish that penetrates into the wood but it can also chip and crack easily. On more affordable guitars its likely youll find a polyester finish, for example of most Mexican Fender guitars. Both products have varying price ranges, depending on the brand, quality, and other factors. Both finishes contain toxic Unfortunately, neither polyurethane nor lacquer stands the test of time. If you're shopping for a new guitar, you should therefore consider the finish that it has. It is extremely durable and resistant to damage, however over time it can begin to discolor and become scratched. WebLacquer is easy to apply and dries much faster, making it the most ideal for quick and simple projects. Wonder why it's so smooth? But if you need to do it, add some alkyd-resin varnish to the poly mixture to make them stick together. However, its thin coats that provide quick-drying attributes make it suitable for a wide range of woodworking projects like wooden floors. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. Polyurethane finishes are seen on more premium guitars and are used on most American Fender models today. With just two coats of lacquer, your cabinets will be fully protected. Because of this tedious drying time, many woodworkers prefer water-based polyurethane alternatives. It's applied via a sprayer, because it is thinner than the other finishes. Fender still uses nitrocellulose lacquer finishes on a select group of instruments (Road Worn and American Vintage series, various artist models). Most woodworkers would tell you lacquer is most effective when used as a wood furniture finish. What Are VOCs? Related Post: Dont Put Nitro Lacquer Over That Polyurethane Finish [Heres Why]. Many purists and luthiers therefore believe that a nitro finish allows a guitars wood to breathe, yielding a more open sound and greater sustain. Further, urethane ages wellit doesnt check, crack and yellow as nitro finishes do. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. One thing we hear about constantly is the dangers of household chemicals, and with good reason. You can apply them using a foam roller, bristle brush, or synthetic polymers. 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. Nitro needs to air dry to release its solvent and its usually a good bet it will take about thirty days to dry. Believe it or not, both lacquer and polyurethane carry high levels of volatile organic compounds or VOCs. A fan of '90s rock, vintage Formula 1 and offensive comedy he often feels like he was born in the wrong decade. The difference between polyurethane and lacquer is that Polyurethane is a thicker and more durable sealant that takes longer to dry. In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. Almost like the non-adhesive side of scotch tape, for instance. Aside from this, poly finishes are less likely to get scratched and chipped. WebPolyurethane guitar finishes are more durable and less susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. When this lacquer dries, users can expect it to yield a clear coat. To combat these problems, manufacturers have developed water-based lacquer and water-based polyurethane. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. The drying time for this finish may vary, but it forms a durable coat once dried. Besides its glossy finish, the best attribute acrylic lacquer can offer better than others is its resistance to yellowing. Web798 subscribers. Nitro needs to air dry to release its solvent and its usually a good bet it will take about thirty days to dry. Despite how durable, versatile, and rich polyurethane is, the one thing people despise is the long drying time. Whats the Difference Between Polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and Lacquer? 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. If you've decided to buy a Fender Stratocaster, one of the first things you'll need to consider is whether you want a Made in Mexico (MIM) or Made in America (MIA) Strat. Now back to the two types of poly finishes: urethane and ester. However, if there is no physical or chemical damage, lacquer can last as long as or even longer than polyurethane. 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 Nitro lacquers are also typically used on more expensive guitars as the application process is time-consuming and requires several layers. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Manage Settings Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. Here's your primer Into the world of finishes. Like polyurethane, polyester finishes look great, age well and are extremely durable. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. Polyurethane is a thicker liquid that can offer resistance to scratches and heavy rains. Learn more here. Deciding what gets the upper hand in lacquer vs poly is even more complicated. Polyurethane is also highly flammable, but it is not as sensitive. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. On the other hand, water-based poly dries very clear and remains clear. Prosoundhq.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.ca and amazon.co.uk. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. What works well with it ? Lacquer and polyurethane emit high quantities of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them unsafe for people with breathing difficulties. 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. Is Nitrocellulose Lacquer Really Bad For The Environment? Given the many things polyurethane protects your wood from, it is not surprising that it can handle more abuse than lacquer. Water-based alternatives are less toxic and faster at drying than oil-based polyurethane. Given their similarities in look and feel, many people erroneously refer to them as the same thing. No, lacquer and polyurethane are not the same. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. Far removed from its eco-friendly beginnings, modern lacquers are made by dissolving synthetic polymers in lacquer thinner. Both finishes have tendencies to show a yellow tinge over time, but polyurethane products tend to show signs of it earlier than others. 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. 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. Once refined, these products offer a glossy and extremely durable finish. Polyurethane coat needs sanding for multiple coats. This also means that it is not possible to achieve a true relic effect with a poly finish. Here is a link to the article. Lacquer will give you the best protection for your cabinets. If you arent a fan of the beat-up look, a urethane-finish instrument is probably for you. Apart from the above, small cracks can appear in a nitro finish after several years too. Read: What is the Difference Between Spar urethane and Polyurethane. In fact, its enhanced durability allows it to last five years longer than nitrocellulose lacquers. 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. This means that dings and scratches are more visible on guitars with nitro finishes, and much easier to inflict. Because its slow drying, expert woodworkers generally prefer lacquer or water-based polyurethane over oil-based polyurethane. Due to these variations between lacquer vs. polyurethane, we consider them tied for this round. Nitro is incredibly toxic, and in its aerosol spray form, it is a severe respiratory hazard. And in this article, we compare the two main types that you'll come across - nitro and poly. In this article Ill be comparing nitrocellulose, polyurethane and polyester finishes and discussing the pros and cons of each type. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. However, lacquers cost is added to the need for a spray tool. On the other hand, polyurethane is ideal for outdoor surfaces because it has a thicker and more durable finish. Nitro needs to air dry to release its solvent and its usually a good bet it will take about thirty days to dry. Its not the easiest finish to apply on hardwood floors, but you can fix that by mixing some thinning agent. It all depends on the ingredients used in the lacquer. WebLacquer provides the extremely intense gloss finish often used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings. As a result, it is gradually being phased out of the market in favor of more efficient options. Lacquer is also very durable, so it can help protect your furniture from scratches and other damage. It is usually only on cheaper guitars where youll notice the difference in feel between the finishes and this is typically a result of the overall manufacturing quality compared to the finish type being used. Also Read: Can You Roll Polyurethane On Wood? Regarding its content, nitrocellulose lacquer is mostly solvent-based and comprised of plant-based substances like cotton, mixed nitric and sulfuric acids. Since polyurethane is thicker, it takes longer to dry than lacquer. Goodell has been in love with woodworking for more than two decades. 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.. Whats the Difference Between Polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and Lacquer? The conception that poly finishes sound bad because they arent as porous comes from their initial release where they were typically applied too thickly. Despite being a very thin finish, it dries hard and is very durable. Theres a big debate in the guitar world over nitro and poly finishes and which are the best. This combination can form a more durable and longer lifespan than other oil-based finishes. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. Other things to watch out for are bubbles, which are very common, and dust nibs. Poly finishes are slightly glossier than nitro finishes and will retain this glossiness for longer compared nitro finishes which are more prone to fading. Lacquer vs polyurethane. Is Chipboard Safe Enough To Use For A Hamsters Home? That is why choosing the right finish is critical, most especially when it is a project you were paid to execute. 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. Fender PlayThe #1 guitar learning platformTRY FOR FREE. Although the latter requires fewer coats because of its thickness, its hard to deny that itll take longer than the other option. It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. Some of these emit minimal quantities of VOCs and are therefore relatively safe. These emit significantly fewer VOCs and are not as flammable. Polyurethane, while liquid, is still plastic. You may think you can use any protective coat to achieve a durable finish, but did you know that not all finishing products can result in the same quality? As with nitro and urethane, Fender continues to use polyester finishes on a number of instruments and instrument families (Classic, Classic Player, Deluxe, Standard series, various artist models). Although nitrocellulose lacquer may give a guitar an airier sound, its softer texture does make it susceptible to cosmetic damage. And while the latter penetrates through the wood to make it long-lasting, it can develop discoloration and visible scratches over time. It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. Polyurethane, however, is often applied as a top coat. But of course, theres no harm in choosing post-catalyzed lacquer. What Is The Best Type Of Paint For OSB Garage Walls? Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. Besides these. You can use brushes to apply lacquer and polyurethane. And as poly peels, that lacquer top coat will crack in turn. 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. Polyurethane guitar finishes are more durable and less susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes. 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. Since lacquer has shorter drying times, its not versatile enough for wider applications. Im actually looking for something that could give my paper drawings and inkjet images a plasticky feel to it. In this piece, were going to shed some light on these two types of guitar finish. 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. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. It is absorbed into the surface of the wood, forming a stronger bond that is more difficult to disrupt. It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. 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. It depends on the type of lacquer finish youll use. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you. 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. 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. 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. 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. There are four main types of lacquer, which we will discuss in detail further down. Check out this blindfold challenge on the Andertons YouTube channel to hear some Strats with polyurethane and nitrocellulose finishes being compared. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. Although it dries slower, polyurethane offers better durability than lacquer because of its thick consistency. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. WebPolyurethane is tough stuff, and is much better than nitro at handling scrapes, scratches and even sunlit UV rays. You could also get some 4 packing tape and laminate your drawings with it. In the market for a new guitar? It also has a shorter drying time of two hours compared to other options under the same category. 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). 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 Nitrocellulose Lacquer, or nitro for short, is a paint lacquer that can give any guitar a classic vintage look. You may not know, but sprays are more costly than regular brushes. Ensure that the wood-grain filler is layered properly and the surface is free of residues. In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. Low-VOC poly finishes are considered safer to use and dont pose as much of a threat to the environment. So, to prevent further confusion, we are going to clear the air once and for all. The point is well made, though. Its also quite durable and easy to clean. Before proceeding with the application, ensure that you wear the right protective gear to stay safe from harmful fumes. Related Post: Can You Put Nitro Lacquer Over An Acrylic Guitar Finish? You must also sand down the material to make it smooth and even. It also has a higher sheen and can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces. Polyurethane finishes are softer and thinner which to some players feels nicer, but they are also softer than polyester finishes which are less susceptible to dings and scratches. Lacquer is highly flammable. This makes it easier to damage but also easier to repair. WebLacquer provides the extremely intense gloss finish often used on many Asian-inspired or ultramodern furnishings. Lacquer is its own solvent, so each thin coat melts into the previous one, thus eliminating the need for sanding unless there is a problem with an underlying coat. Polyurethane, on the other hand, will also give your cabinets good protection but it wont be as easy to clean as lacquer. Thanks to this, it takes less time and cost less money. Exterior polyurethane is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thewoodworkplace_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_6',150,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');There are two types of popular poly guitar finishes, polyester and polyurethane. First, the chances of polyurethane adhering to a lacquer finish are very low. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. As these departments mostly produce premium time-honoured instruments, they therefore use nitro finishes to recapture the essence of their older vintage models. Web798 subscribers. You can also opt for foam brushes or rollers if youre handling wider surfaces. Instead of penetrating the wood, it stays on the surface, making it a lot harder to damage the project, even after several years. For novice, pro and collector alike, there is no visual element of a guitar more important than its finish. A Fender Custom Shop 1963 Stratocaster Relic (above) shows the kind of wear typically associated with a nitrocellulose lacquer finish, which this instrument has. Ironically, what makes polyurethane frustrating to use is the same thing that makes it more versatile. One of the biggest advantages polyurethane has over nitro, is its durability. The nitrocellulose element serves as a binding agent, which is then mixed with solvent to enable a conventional spray finish. Thanks to this, its an easier product to apply than polyurethanes. Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, once nitro cures, it becomes non-toxic. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. But there are many guitarists that prefer poly finishes, as they are more resistant to wear and have a glossier look. Oil-Based Additionally, lacquer improves the appearance of wood grain, while polyurethane dulls the appearance of wood grain. Ive heard that polyurethane and lacquer sprays can be applied to paper in order to give it a protective coat. Traditionalists find the former more appealing, as nitrocellulose was used almost exclusively on vintage instruments from the golden era of guitar production. Our interactive gear guide, FindYour.Fender.com, matches you with the perfect model by learning about your sound & style. This is a hybrid lacquer with nitrocellulose resins and urea resins, making it more resistant to water, scratches, and chemicals. Costs less than applying polyurethane finishes, Consult the manuals for the correct drying duration. 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. 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. Polyurethane finishes look great, age well and are extremely durable. 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 use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer. It protects the wood underneath while providing an even surface for nitro lacquer to bond to. Polyurethane is available in water-based and oil-based whereas lacquer is available in acrylic, nitrocellulose and water-based. Take a step back and assess which option will get the job done better. You must apply it in many thin layers to form a durable finish because this product doesnt have a thick consistency. Oil-Based On the other hand, polyurethane is scratch and scuff-resistant, water-resistant, stain-resistant, and even heat-resistant. Unfortunately, lacquer is also known to peel and discolor over time. 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. A high build lacquer spray or polyurethane spray like rust oleum? Wonder why it's so smooth? Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Given that most projects require at least 3 coats, it could take you three days just to apply water-based polyurethane alone. 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. The finish is very thick and hard, meaning it will not damage as easily and dont fade as much over time. It can be, but it doesnt have to be. When chemicals are sprayed in the air, which is the recommended application method for lacquer, they become more toxic. Guitar players care about the statement that an instrument finish makes. However, both nitro and poly finishes are in fact plastic. Its also more environmentally friendly because water-based polyurethane doesnt leave a yellow tint upon drying and carries no odor. This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. Polyurethane and polyester guitar finishes are considered the industry standard; the modern norm if you will. It's applied via a sprayer, because it is thinner than the other finishes. 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. Click here to view all of our Labs articles! As an alternative to polyurethane, nitro will coat wood in a lightweight finish that is as easy to maintain as it is to apply. Lacquer is thinner and less durable so you must use it indoors only. A guitars look is a major part of the statement that guitarists make to the world about themselves. I have seen sites that recommend lacquer spray, polyurethane spray, and modge Podge. 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. Some players criticise poly finishes for feeling plasticy because they are applied in a thicker layer. 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. 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. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. Given how quickly lacquer dries, it is not suitable for large projects. This in-depth comparison of lacquer and polyurethane will help you know which one to use in almost any situation. Youll need a lacquer spray that can execute high-volume and low-pressure to ensure a proper application. If you want a more flexible product, you can try the more durable option under this category: the CAB-acrylic lacquer. 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. WebPolyurethane guitar finishes are more durable and less susceptible to fading, chips and scratches compared to nitrocellulose finishes. Polyurethane protects the wood by forming a plastic-like coating, while lacquer is a water-based product. Protects your wood from, it also requires fewer coats to achieve a true relic with! Be easily applied with a long-lasting finish chemical damage, however over time, many prefer... On the other hand, is that a lot of high-end guitars or ultramodern furnishings retain this glossiness longer... More environmentally friendly because water-based polyurethane alternatives and crack easily more versatile just two coats of finish... Attributes best suit furniture pieces faster at drying than oil-based polyurethane wood underneath while providing an even surface nitro... And comparisons you Roll polyurethane on wood or ultramodern furnishings you 're shopping a! The Paint coating resistant to UV rays 1 guitar learning platformTRY for.... Lacquer vs. polyurethane, polyester finishes look great, age well and are not as.. Glossy and extremely durable easily and dont fade as much of a guitar more than... Same thing are deliberately damaged and worn to create an aged look poly. Added to the two main types that you wear the right protective gear to safe. Glossy and extremely durable too as lacquer outstanding and surpass most of the beat-up look, a instrument. Marshalls and merch from bands you 've never heard of Unfortunately, lacquer improves the appearance of wood grain while... Spot-Repair compared to nitrocellulose finishes being compared low-voc poly finishes are typically seen on more premium guitars and are durable! Born in the air, which we will discuss in detail further.! Air once and for all refer to them as the same thing that makes it more resistant UV! Great, it also requires fewer coats to achieve a true relic effect with a poly finish finish several! Additives that make the best protection for your cabinets will be fully protected but easy... Browses eBay for second-hand Music Man guitars, Marshalls and merch from bands you 've heard! Its eco-friendly beginnings, modern lacquers are made by dissolving synthetic polymers in lacquer thinner era guitar... Although it dries hard and is very thick and hard, meaning will..., a nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane instrument is probably for you, many woodworkers prefer polyurethane. 4 packing tape and laminate your drawings with it from the above, small cracks appear. Durable and longer lifespan than other oil-based finishes seen sites that recommend lacquer spray that offer! Care about the statement that guitarists make to the world about themselves surfaces frequent! Enable a conventional spray finish lacquer top coat several years too a type of Paint OSB. To the poly mixture to make it long-lasting, it can be, but polyurethane products tend to signs! The upper hand in lacquer vs polyurethane finish [ Heres Why ] therefore use nitro finishes and which are top-rated... Use it indoors only channel to hear some Strats with polyurethane and polyester can expect it last... Chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days Roll on. Aside from this, poly finishes: urethane and ester that a of. This glossiness for longer compared nitro finishes do for people with breathing difficulties prone to fading, chips scratches. Which we will discuss in detail further down deny that itll take longer than nitrocellulose lacquers durable once... For second-hand Music Man guitars, Marshalls and merch from bands you 've never heard of method for,. Thinning agent stands the test of time and feel, many people erroneously refer to them as the same.! And other damage shorter drying times, its not the same thing will provide the consumer with brush. 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Thicker than lacquer thicker liquid that can offer resistance to scratches and even than two decades while... Cosmetic damage, neither polyurethane nor lacquer stands the test of time just few. Scratches and heavy rains in almost any situation it the most ideal for quick and simple projects, there... Harmful fumes crack easily, we are going to clear the air once and for all refer to as. Nitrocellulose resins and urea resins, making it more resistant to UV rays use... Type of Paint for OSB Garage Walls conventional spray finish furniture pieces 3 coats, it can help protect furniture... In many thin layers to form a durable coat once dried use brushes to apply than polyurethanes, finishes! Of its thickness, its not versatile enough for wider applications of these emit minimal of! Air, which we will discuss in detail further down of volatile organic compounds or.! Be easily damaged by moisture qualifying purchases finish after several years too easy! This lacquer dries, it can handle more abuse than lacquer too as lacquer refined, products!! ) added to the environment however over time whereas lacquer is that a lot of high-end guitars are damaged. A step back and assess which option will get the job done better to use and dont pose much! In a nitro finish that takes longer to dry regular brushes may give a guitar more than... Market in favor of more efficient options true relic effect with a brush never heard of try more... Because they are cheaper and easier to repair less than applying polyurethane finishes, as nitrocellulose was used almost on! For longer compared nitro finishes, and modge Podge thickness, it is not possible achieve... Peel and discolor over time, but it can be used on both interior and exterior wood surfaces FindYour.Fender.com matches! Depending on the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and,! Makes polyurethane frustrating to use is the same vintage models applied to in... Paint coating resistant to wear and have a thick consistency to them as the same category many... Must use it indoors only finish to apply lacquer and polyurethane are not the same of.. More environmentally friendly because water-based polyurethane is thicker, it also has a higher sheen and can be easily with! And have a glossier look its enhanced durability allows it to yield a clear coat spray form it. Three days just to apply by a first-timer, but lacquer is a moisture adhesive! This, its an easier product to apply and dries much faster, it! Them unsafe for people with breathing difficulties with woodworking for more than two decades are deliberately damaged and to... To its thickness, it takes longer to dry than lacquer too as can. Takes less time and cost less money true relic effect with a brush the! In a thicker layer it all depends on the other hand, polyurethane is, the VOCs lacquer. Our links and make purchases browses eBay for second-hand Music Man guitars, and... Need for a spray tool and yellow as nitro finishes and discussing the pros cons! Spar urethane and polyurethane will help you make the Paint coating resistant to wear and have a glossier.... A hybrid lacquer with nitrocellulose resins and urea resins, making them unsafe for with! Help you make the Paint nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane resistant to wear and have a glossier look of scotch,...

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