A lacquer finish is a glossy top coating applied primarily to safeguard wood and metal from age, wear, and liquids. The word “lacquer” came from the French word “lacre” meaning “a kind of sealing wax”. The earliest lacquer finishes were made of resin derived from trees and wax. Nowadays, lacquer finish is applied on high-grade furniture and makes them more durable and resistant to damage.
What are the Types of Lacquer Finish?
Nitrocellulose lacquer finish becomes more amber red through time. It is primarily used for musical instruments such as pianos, violins, and guitars. Nitrocellulose lacquer finish was also utilized for coating automobiles in the middle of the 1900s. This lacquer finish may crack or “craze” through the years as it is not as protective against liquids, abrasions, and chemicals as other types.
An acrylic lacquer finish is more heavy-duty and resistant to scratches compared to a nitrocellulose lacquer finish. This lacquer finish was first used in the 1950s on birch, ash, and maple woods.
The catalyzed lacquer finish is made up of chemicals which results in a harder and more durable finish versus acrylic and nitrocellulose lacquer finishes.
A waterborne lacquer finish is made from substances that are healthier for the environment and are therefore less toxic. However, this lacquer finish offers less protection for wood.
The urushiol-based lacquer finish is made from the chemical urushiol produced by the wax and lacquer trees of East Asia. This lacquer finish is a common feature of furniture, instruments, and lacquerware in that region.
Is Lacquer Finish Different From Varnish?
The lacquer finish is relatively superior to varnish, especially in terms of sheen and durability. Lacquer finish has a higher sheen level than varnish which makes it more attractive in look and feel. Lacquer finish also provides stronger protection against wear and tear, liquids and chemicals, and scratches than varnish. The lacquer finish is utilized more for high-quality furniture.
LA Furniture Store has a wide selection of modern furniture with Lacquer Finish.
What are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Lacquer Finish?
The benefits of using lacquer finish on furniture are:
- Protects against chemicals and liquids
- Provides a durable and hard coating
- Minimal maintenance and upkeep needed
- Some types of lacquer finishes are resistant to clouding and yellowing
The drawbacks of using lacquer finish on furniture are:
- The first application causes toxic gas emissions
- Specific equipment and spraying area are needed for application
- Dents and scratches are hard to undo
