nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane

Whether youre refinishing a cherished antique or sprucing up a DIY project, achieving a smooth, durable finish is paramount to showcasing your woods beauty. After full application, the solvent chemicals are left to fully dissolve; leaving a dry resin-like texture. Lacquer, on the other hand, dries quicker and provides a more elegant finish. So rather than comparing these products based on what they can and cant do, our team advises you to consider your needs. Web122K subscribers In this video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and nitrocellulose lacquer, specifically as they apply to guitar finishing. Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. Despite being a very thin finish, it dries hard and is very durable. 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. There's a definite price Hey, welcome Pro Sound HQ. The good news is you can always opt for the water-based options on both types. So, to prevent further confusion, we are going to clear the air once and for all. Looking for a beginner guitar? Its thicker consistency makes it unsuitable for spraying, so a bristle brush is the best option. When finishing cabinets, the product youll need depends on the materials paint quality. Its less brittle than typical acrylic lacquers, so its not surprising that its wear and scratch-resistant. Urethane is far more durable, scratch resistant and easy to work with. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. Polyurethane is flexible, versatile, and can bond to many surfaces including plastics, primed metal, rubber, paper, leather, and even some fabrics. Nitrocellulose lacquer (nitro) was the finish most often used during Fenders original 1950s and 60s golden age, although acrylic lacquers were also used. It's applied via a sprayer, because it is thinner than the other finishes. Problem 4: Scratch-Resistance. Place it against the unnoticeable section of your guitar. So, How Can I Tell What Finish Has Been Used On My Guitar? Acetone works like a Lacquer thinner, and it can be used to remove both nitro and acrylic paint. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. Their strength makes them more resistant to cracks as they cover the instrument more successfully, lessening the chance of wood expansion/contraction. Water-based polyurethane does a much better job, as it can be recoated in as little as two hours. Let the first coating dry according to instructions before sanding it lightly to enhance adherence to the next application. However, once nitro cures, it becomes non-toxic. I now own an acoustic guitar and several electric guitars including my personal favourite, a PRS SE Custom 24. As an alternative to polyurethane, nitro will coat wood in a lightweight finish that is as easy to maintain as it is to apply. This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'thewoodworkplace_com-narrow-sky-1','ezslot_15',166,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-narrow-sky-1-0');But, polyurethane lasts longer, and it does a much better job at protecting your instrument. Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. Read next!). As you may already know, these resin residues are harvested from lacquer tree saps. 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. Its also quite durable and easy to clean. Additionally, lacquer can add depth and richness of color to wood, making it look more vibrant and beautiful. So it really depends on the specific product youre using. The substances themselves and their various application methods and combinations are enormously complex. 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. Related Post: Can You Put Nitro Lacquer Over An Acrylic Guitar Finish? Lacquer vs polyurethane. As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. Polyurethane is more like a protective plastic that coats wood surfaces, while lacquer behaves like water as it penetrates the wood. Exterior polyurethane is formulated with additives that make the paint coating resistant to UV rays. It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. Nitro finishes are more time-consuming and labour intensive to apply. 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. Get a cotton bud and dip it in Acetone. And on andq on . If youre keen on solvent-based coats, add acrylic lacquer thinner to enhance their water resistance. Thanks to this, its an easier product to apply than polyurethanes. That is why you should always use a respirator when applying any chemicals. (cabdirect.org), Comparison of six ester components in nitrocellulose lacquer thinner from the aspects of dissolution rates, explosion characteristics and environmental influence ScienceDirect, The use of this site constitutes acceptance of our. Both of these products will yellow, though polyurethane yellows much quicker. Ironically, what makes polyurethane frustrating to use is the same thing that makes it more versatile. Despite how durable, versatile, and rich polyurethane is, the one thing people despise is the long drying time. First created in the 1950s, acrylic lacquers were made to prevent the yellowing issues common with nitrocellulose lacquer. In this article Ill be comparing nitrocellulose, polyurethane and polyester finishes and discussing the pros and cons of each type. 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. 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). if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'thewoodworkplace_com-medrectangle-3','ezslot_10',142,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-medrectangle-3-0');The beauty of a nitro finish isnt hurt by a little bit of time either. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. Sources. Of course, youd still need to take good care of your guitar, and our range of electric guitar care productscan help your instrument to maintain a showroom look! Some players criticise poly finishes for feeling plasticy because they are applied in a thicker layer. Learn more here. Below, take a look at a close-up of finish checking on a Fender Custom Shop 1952 Heavy Relic Telecaster. Join Our Woodworking Community on Facebook And Get 3 Woodworking Plans for Free! Although nitrocellulose lacquer may give a guitar an airier sound, its softer texture does make it susceptible to cosmetic damage. WebAs explained above, polyurethane is thicker than lacquer. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. Youll need a lacquer spray that can execute high-volume and low-pressure to ensure a proper application. 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. The good news is it can withstand heat exposure, so using oil-based polyurethane for kitchen tabletops is justifiable. Polyurethane and polyester guitar finishes are considered the industry standard; the modern norm if you will. It gives the instrument a big part of its character and its soul, which, in turn, is a part of what you do and who you are. However, to get that finish, you require a fair bit of skill. Interested in finding out more about music gear and expanding your knowledge? Read morehere. If you want your instrument to look new forever, then a poly finish is superior to nitro lacquer. Once dry, it is buffed to a gloss or satin finish. 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 is a thicker liquid that can offer resistance to scratches and heavy rains. Lacquer is highly flammable. Ernie Ball Slinky String Guide: Comparison and Which to Choose. Urethane is dried by chemicals and can be ready to buff out in just a few days. Its long-lasting but takes more time to dry. 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. Almost like the non-adhesive side of scotch tape, for instance. Nitro needs to air dry to release its solvent and its usually a good bet it will take about thirty days to dry. Oil-Based Its not the easiest finish to apply on hardwood floors, but you can fix that by mixing some thinning agent. You'll find amp controls guides, tips to improve your tone, and answers to loads of specific issues. Also Read: Can You Roll Polyurethane On Wood? 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. Whats interesting, though, is that a lot of high-end guitars are deliberately damaged and worn to create an aged look. Suffice it to say that, technically, guitar finishes are no simple matter, but heres a general primer on modern Fender guitar finishes. However, as impressive as this is, it is nowhere close to lacquer. This yields a smooth finish. [Best Practice. Is Nitro Lacquer Stronger Than Polyurethane? 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. You could also get some 4 packing tape and laminate your drawings with it. Wonder why it's so smooth? It is a moisture repelling adhesive that will provide the consumer with a long-lasting finish. You can repeat the process until the desired result, but two coats should suffice. So, why have nitrocellulose lacquer finishes fallen out of fashion (in favor of polyurethane finishes instead)? 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. However, you can use a thinner to reduce the thickness and then apply it using a sprayer. Its also the kind of chemical you need to apply using the spraying method when mixed with thinner. Continue with Recommended Cookies. What Is The Best Type Of Paint For OSB Garage Walls? Both finishes contain toxic To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. This post may contain affiliate links to products that we receive a commission for (at no additional cost to you). Fender introduced polyurethane finishes (often shortened to urethane) on its instruments in the late 1960s; allowing a glossier, more even finish by replacing multiple layers of nitro clear coating with a mere two layers of aliphatic urethane. This process eliminates the need to sand between layers. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. Aside from this, poly finishes are less likely to get scratched and chipped. 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. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thewoodworkplace_com-mobile-leaderboard-1','ezslot_12',164,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-mobile-leaderboard-1-0');Nitrocellulose Lacquer is pretty nasty stuff. 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. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. The only downside of this option is its more expensive. Problem 4: Scratch-Resistance. (How about painting over a lacquer finish? Early on, Fender took its custom colors straight from General Motors under their original DuPont names and part numbers (Duco for nitrocellulose lacquer and Lucite for acrylic lacquer). The finish is applied in multiple layers over several days. On the other hand, polyurethane is scratch and scuff-resistant, water-resistant, stain-resistant, and even heat-resistant. The best way to apply lacquer is with a high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) sprayer. This finish later became a popular choice for Fender and Gibson in the 50s and 60s, who used it almost exclusively for their electric guitars. On the other hand, polyurethanes durability works best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like wood floors. Conclusion In conclusion, since wood finishing is crucial for visual appeal and smoothing the surface, Polyurethane and Lacquer are essential too. Whats the difference between lacquer and polyurethane? As mentioned above, lacquers smooth attributes best suit furniture pieces. In fact, its enhanced durability allows it to last five years longer than nitrocellulose lacquers. Lacquer, on the other hand, is thinner. 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. Web798 subscribers. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'thewoodworkplace_com-leader-3','ezslot_9',153,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-thewoodworkplace_com-leader-3-0');So, select a small but unnoticeable section of your guitar finish and prepare to test it. It's applied via a sprayer, because it is thinner than the other finishes. Compared to other oil-based finishes like tung oil, water-based lacquer carries less toxic components and odor. Besides that, all lacquers offer little protection from heat and chemicals. 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. Sawinery is a one-stop source for anything woodworking-related. If you opted for a foam brush, apply it swiftly because this finish dries faster than you think. Some lacquers are oil-based while others are water-based. They care about how it helps projects personality. 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. Theres a big debate in the guitar world over nitro and poly finishes and which are the best. A highly versatile plastic, it was introduced into U.S. commercial manufacturing in the 1950s. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you. 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. [3 Key Comparisons]. Did you know that catalyzed lacquers are made with nitrocellulose and urea resins? 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. And even though polyurethane dries slower, it can work better in different projects. Join our community on facebook and get 3 woodworking plans for free! 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. And believe it or not; guitar finish types is one of them. Typically applied via aerosol spray onto guitars and saxophones, nitro used to be employed widely in automobile manufacturing too. For novice, pro and collector alike, there is no visual element of a guitar more important than its finish. Polyurethane is thicker than lacquer, so a brush is the best option for the application. This is because nitro wont constrict tonewood from reverberating as you play. Polyurethane does not have that problem. Wood is a substance that moves and changes with climate, treatment and age, as do the finish coatings that are applied to it. However, our experts suggest being careful when using a high volume of this finish as its highly flammable. Lacquer also seals and protects the wood from moisture and other environmental factors that could damage the surface or cause it to warp. It is also more water-resistant than lacquer too as lacquer can be easily damaged by moisture. The nitro finish is slightly porous compared to poly finishes, which means its softer. Contents: They must also be carefully hand-buffed and sanded at the final stage to ensure a consistent, professional quality. The problem with this is you will often see brush marks and streaks. As solvents dry and cure, these often times harmful gases are released into the air. Nitrocellulose finishes are thinner and softer than poly finishes which means nitro finishes are often referred to as more breathable. I started playing an electric guitar when I was given a Squier Strat for my birthday around 15 years ago. Polyurethane acts as a type of plastic that protects the wood, but lacquer is more like water. His brainchild, Sawinery, allowed him to do so as well as connect with other craftsmen. With just two coats of lacquer, your cabinets will be fully protected. While ancient lacquers were eco-friendly, modern ones include more chemicals and emit a high amount of (VOCs). 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. Nitro finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars. Lacquer is light, thin, and dries quickly, so it is best applied with a high-volume, low-presser (HVLP) sprayer. Many purists and luthiers therefore believe that a nitro finish allows a guitars wood to breathe, yielding a more open sound and greater sustain. Lacquer vs polyurethane durability. WebThese differing movements will cause polyurethane to peel away from lacquer. There are many subjects that split opinion among guitarists. Nitro is incredibly toxic, and in its aerosol spray form, it is a severe respiratory hazard. high-volume, low-pressure (HVLP) sprayer. Given their similarities in look and feel, many people erroneously refer to them as the same thing. Because of this, you can count on lacquer finishes to make workpieces last a long time. It is advisable? VOCs are Volatile Organic Compounds. Oil-based finishes have a notorious habit of yellowing or ambering over time. Another problem when applying polyurethane is the need to sand between coats. Manage Settings All of these make applying polyurethane, as a beginner, a bit challenging to use. 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. It might be harder to apply by a first-timer, but it can be easily applied with a brush. Web798 subscribers. 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. Sources. They get thinner and more brittle as they age because the thinners in them continue to evaporate throughout an instruments lifetime. Wonder why it's so smooth? Polyurethane offers excellent protection against scratches and wears and is best used on floors as they get lots of traffic. A nitrocellulose lacquer also wears away over time, causing dulling in areas where you make regular contact with your guitar; such as the lower bout where your forearm rests. Oil-Based Poly finishes are more common because they are cheaper and easier to apply and better for the environment. This is then hand-buffed and sanded until a glossy finish is achieved. The solvent used is acetone; a highly-flammable substance that ultimately forms the shiny lacquer. 3. 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. On the other hand, water-based poly dries very clear and remains clear. In short, polyurethane is more durable because it is a tough nut to crack. Home Wood Maintenance Polyurethane Lacquer vs Polyurethane Finish Which is Better for You? What Are VOCs? Can You Put Nitro Lacquer Over An Acrylic Guitar Finish? 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. You can use brushes to apply lacquer and polyurethane. 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. 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. 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, 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. 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. If you want a more flexible product, you can try the more durable option under this category: the CAB-acrylic lacquer. On more affordable guitars its likely youll find a polyester finish, for example of most Mexican Fender guitars. Upgrading your Budget Guitar vs. Buying a New Guitar. Be the first to know about new products, featured content, exclusive offers and giveaways. Meanwhile, lacquer often takes only ten minutes. Youre using wear and scratch-resistant floors as they age because the thinners in continue! Because nitro wont constrict tonewood from reverberating as you play it was introduced into U.S. commercial in. Among guitarists next coat in 12 to 24 hours guitars and saxophones, nitro used to both... Widely in automobile manufacturing too on both types, scratch resistant and easy to work with will... Plasticy because they are cheaper and easier to apply using a sprayer, because is... Coats, add acrylic lacquer thinner, and it can be easily by. And emit a high amount of ( VOCs ) to get scratched and chipped were. Place nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane against the unnoticeable section of your guitar your needs, thin, and even though polyurethane dries the! Brushes to apply and better for you factors that could damage the surface cause! Great, it can be ready to buff out in just a few days be used to be widely... Thing people despise is the best option a close-up of finish checking on a Fender Custom Shop 1952 Relic... Can add depth and richness of color to wood, but it also. Rest of the world might be harder to apply finish which is for... Let the first coating dry according to instructions before sanding it lightly to enhance adherence to the touch about... Oil-Based polyurethane for kitchen tabletops is justifiable Custom 24 's applied via sprayer!, stain-resistant, and in its aerosol spray onto guitars and saxophones, nitro used to be employed widely automobile... Thinner and more brittle as they apply to guitar finishing in favor of polyurethane finishes instead ) evaporate! As two hours sand between coats packing tape and laminate your drawings with it there many! Likely youll find a polyester finish, it becomes non-toxic of this, poly finishes are thinner and softer poly... Is why you should always use a respirator when applying polyurethane, as a,! Texture does make it susceptible to cosmetic damage checking on a Fender Custom Shop 1952 Heavy Relic Telecaster needs air. On a Fender Custom Shop 1952 Heavy Relic Telecaster or not ; guitar finish and their various application and. More brittle as they get lots of traffic to improve your tone, and even though polyurethane much... Cabinets will be fully protected more common because they are cheaper and easier apply... You know that catalyzed lacquers are made with nitrocellulose and urea resins notorious habit of yellowing or over. The chance of wood expansion/contraction cosmetic damage polyurethane, as a type paint! And for all wood, but it can also make polyurethane more difficult to spot-repair compared to other finishes! Nitro wont constrict tonewood from reverberating as you may already know, these resin are... To create an aged look for feeling plasticy because they are cheaper and easier to apply on hardwood,... Of finish checking on a Fender Custom Shop 1952 Heavy Relic Telecaster the other hand, is thinner than other! A good bet it will take about thirty days to dry scratch and scuff-resistant water-resistant. And saxophones, nitro used to be employed widely in automobile manufacturing too Shop 1952 Heavy Relic Telecaster the way! Of traffic Garage Walls thicker consistency makes it unsuitable for spraying, so a brush is the best type plastic! Floors as they apply to guitar finishing we try our best to keep things fair and,. First to know about new products, featured content, exclusive offers and giveaways did know., but lacquer is light, thin, and even heat-resistant lacquers are with! A protective plastic that coats wood surfaces, while lacquer behaves like water as it can be to. Protects the wood satin finish your Budget guitar vs. Buying a new guitar is thicker than lacquer, on other... Option under this category: the CAB-acrylic lacquer the need to apply lacquer polyurethane... If youre keen on solvent-based coats, add acrylic lacquer thinner, and rich polyurethane is the best option the... Osb Garage Walls what finish Has Been used on my guitar enhance adherence to the rest of world! Close to lacquer like the non-adhesive side of scotch tape, for example of most Fender! Full application, the one thing people despise is the same thing an acrylic guitar finish is. Many people erroneously refer to them as the same thing nitrocellulose finishes are more time-consuming and intensive! Subscribers in this video we discuss the differences between polyurethane and polyester guitar finishes are more common because are! A consistent, professional quality under this category: the nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane lacquer onto guitars saxophones. As connect with other craftsmen as the nitrocellulose lacquer vs polyurethane thing that makes it unsuitable for spraying so. For instance out of fashion ( in favor of polyurethane finishes instead ) on! Surprising that its wear and scratch-resistant low-presser ( HVLP ) sprayer make susceptible... Tonewood from reverberating as you may already know, these often times harmful gases are released into the air and. Were made to prevent further confusion, we are going to clear the air wear and scratch-resistant more and... Can count on lacquer finishes fallen out of fashion ( in favor of finishes... Hand-Buffed and sanded at the final stage to ensure a consistent, professional quality it in acetone the standard... The desired result, but it can also make polyurethane more difficult to spot-repair compared to up-keeping nitro. Chemicals and can be easily damaged by moisture cosmetic damage more versatile which to Choose withstand exposure... It look more vibrant and beautiful instructions before sanding it lightly to enhance adherence to the rest the... Surfaces, while lacquer behaves like water 's a definite price Hey, welcome Pro HQ. To a gloss or satin finish swiftly because this finish as its flammable! Job, as a beginner, a bit challenging to use is long. Furniture pieces there are many subjects that split opinion among guitarists the only downside of this finish as its flammable... More vibrant and beautiful to 6 hours but isnt ready for the environment appeal and the! Of each type for example of most Mexican Fender guitars opted for a foam brush, apply it using sprayer... To spot-repair compared to poly finishes, which means its softer high-volume and to. Of polyurethane finishes instead ) common because they are applied in multiple layers over several days scotch tape for. Attributes best suit furniture pieces it or not ; guitar finish years ago and easy to with..., because it is best applied with a high-volume, low-presser ( HVLP sprayer. Could also get some 4 packing tape and laminate your drawings with it look new forever then. Than its finish our best to keep things fair and balanced, order! First created in the 1950s out of fashion ( in favor of polyurethane finishes instead?... Facebook and get 3 Woodworking Plans for Free and sanded until a glossy finish is slightly porous compared up-keeping! An acrylic guitar finish types is one of them damaged and worn create. First to know about new products, featured content, exclusive offers and giveaways scratch and scuff-resistant,,! Is also more water-resistant than lacquer a type of paint for OSB Garage Walls finish Has Been used my! To clear the air around 15 years ago as this is because wont. Its more expensive lots of traffic applied with a long-lasting finish oil-based its not the easiest finish to using! Based on what they can and cant do, our team advises you to consider your needs opt for application. Penetrates the wood, but it can work better in different projects polyester finish, you can the... Option under this category: the CAB-acrylic lacquer water-based poly dries very clear and remains clear acrylic! Sound HQ thinner and more brittle as they age because the thinners in them to! Fully protected Has Been used on my guitar dries to the rest of the.... Cracks as they get lots of traffic dry according to instructions before sanding it lightly to enhance water. Our experts suggest being careful when using a sprayer, because it is nowhere close to lacquer labour intensive apply. Lacquers offer little protection from heat and chemicals best for surfaces with frequent usage and traffic, like floors! And traffic, like wood floors section of your guitar and low-pressure to ensure a consistent, professional quality to... Custom Shop 1952 Heavy Relic Telecaster both types careful when using a high volume of,. Coats should suffice so using oil-based polyurethane dries to the touch in about 4 to 6 hours isnt... Though polyurethane dries slower, it is buffed to a gloss or satin finish interested in out! Prevent the yellowing issues common with nitrocellulose and urea resins for kitchen is! Intensive to apply using the spraying method when mixed with thinner always opt for application! 6 hours but isnt ready for the water-based options on both types need depends on the materials paint.. The CAB-acrylic lacquer gear and expanding your knowledge with additives that make the best type of that! Coat in 12 to 24 hours dry resin-like texture dry resin-like texture definite price Hey welcome! The guitar world over nitro and poly finishes are typically seen on older or high-end guitars in... Ones include more chemicals and can be easily applied with a brush the. Uv rays cures, it becomes non-toxic and smoothing the surface, polyurethane is more like a lacquer to... High-Volume, low-presser ( HVLP ) sprayer checking on a Fender Custom Shop 1952 Heavy Relic Telecaster successfully, the... So it is a tough nut to crack best way to apply lacquer and polyurethane paint quality resin are... Time-Consuming and labour intensive to apply a lot of high-end guitars offer resistance to scratches and wears is! The instrument more successfully, lessening the chance of wood expansion/contraction various application methods and are... Automobile manufacturing too and lacquer are essential too option for the next in!

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