What is the difference between urethane and lacquer

All in all, both products are unique with their own chemical makeup. But, if you are still baffled regarding what the key differences between both of them are, keep a few things in mind:. So hopefully, these differences will make it easier for you to know which finish you should opt for on your next project… Good Luck!

In the world of woodworking we have so many options when it comes to choosing a wood finish. Table of Contents show. Is lacquer better than a polyurethane finish? Lacquer Explained Nitrocellulose Lacquer. Urushiol-Based Lacquer. Acrylic Lacquer. Polyurethane Explained Oil-Based Polyurethane. Water-Based Polyurethane. Water-Based Oil-Modified. In its solid form, it is employed in the manufacture of insulation, mattresses, car parts, and adhesives, just to name a few.

Woodworkers usually work with polyurethane varnish available in both oil-based and water-based varieties. You can also choose the polyurethane finish you like, from satin to glossy. If woodworkers prefer solvent-based lacquer for a variety of reasons, things are slightly different with polyurethane. This product is preferred in its water-based variant due to a smoother and more accurate application. On the bright side, polyurethane adheres well to most surfaces and can be applied over oil-based coats.

Varathane Water-Based Ultimate Polyurethane. Crystal clear finish is ideal for use over light woods like maple, ash and birch as well as over Minwax Water-Based Wood Stains. The first reason is the consistency of the product. Yes, you might make mistakes, but all you need is a bit of solvent, such as white spirit, to solve your problem. Polyurethane, while liquid, is still plastic. This varnish is rather thick and hard to handle. Speaking of brush strokes, you can avoid them altogether if you use lacquer because itcan be applied with a paint sprayer.

Polyurethane is just too thick to use with a sprayer. You can thin it, but the quality of your finish might suffer. Then, there is drying time. Lacquer is a solvent-based product that requires a ton of time to dry, but it still dries faster than polyurethane. If you have to apply more than one coat, you could end up spending much more time on your project if you opt for polyurethane.

Pour water on it, and it will penetrate the material sooner or later. Due to its viscosity, lacquer acts like water. This product is often employed in treating weathered wood because it absorbs into the surface.

Through absorption, lacquer forms a stronger bond with the wood that is harder to break. Within polyurethane variances, the water-based dries faster than the oil-based polyurethane. Lacquer dries quickly hence it is preferred by many woodworkers. It can dry within 10 minutes whereas polyurethane can take many hours to dry. Because of this quicker drying time, it is easy to apply multiple coats using lacquer than it is with polyurethane.

It is easy to apply multiple coats with lacquer. Polyurethane, however, requires more time for it to cure and then sanding for the multiple coats to adhere firmly. Difference Between Polyurethane and Lacquer.

Difference Between Similar Terms and Objects. MLA 8 Madisha, Lusi. Name required. Email required. Please note: comment moderation is enabled and may delay your comment.

There is no need to resubmit your comment. Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. Written by : Lusi Madisha. The pros and cons of lacquers and polyurethane.

Accessed on 12 August Fox Chapel Publishing Company. User assumes all risk of use, damage, or injury. You agree that we have no liability for any damages. What is lacquer? Acrylic lacquer — Acrylic lacquer is well-known for its resistance to causing yellow color on wood finishes as others do. Instead, it leaves a clear color.

Among other types of acrylic lacquers, there is the CAB-acrylic lacquer — a finish that is less brittle and more flexible. It is furthermore resistant to wear and scratches. However, it is costly. Applying this finish requires the spray if you combine it with a thinner agent.

All create a smooth, clear finish on the wooden surface. Dry to Touch: While oil-based polyurethane requires 4 hours to dry to touch, rest of the finishes are much faster: Lacquer 30 min. Shellac 1 hr. Water-based poly 2 hours Easy to Apply: If you want to ensure no brush marks and an even finish, oil-based poly is your best bet— it self-levels, correcting inconsistencies in your application.

Most Durable: Poly stands up best to scuffs, scratches and wear. Leave a comment. Post comment. Recent Posts.