What Is Lacquer & How Water Based Lacquer Is Different From Solvent-Based Lacquer?

1. What Is Lacquer & How Water Based Lacquer Is Different From Solvent-Based Lacquer? Lacquer is a protective and transparent finish that is used primarily to highlight the appearance of wood. It is used commonly for wooden staircases, cupboards, cabinets, and wooden floorboards. It results in a glossy appearance that helps to make things look more stylish. Depending on the needs of the person, several lacquer options available in the market, to choose from. Such options include water-based lacquer and solvent-based lacquer. The general finishes enduro lacquer is such a product that is known for providing amazing results within less time. Lacquer is useful for a variety of other applications, along with instruments and furniture. It is a solvent-based, synthetic coating, that is used to give the woods a high-gloss look. Back in the days choosing paint back was a much easier job, however today more than a handful of things are available in the market to choose from while painting a thing. This also makes it difficult to choose the best lacquer for a product or job. Lacquer is a transparent paint that also shows a fair degree of resistance to volatile substances as well as water. Water-based lacquers:- Water-based lacquers were first used on automobiles. Later they found their way to wood furniture. Water-based lacquers soften and bind with the undercoat as we build up the finish. These lacquers are increasingly becoming a common alternative to solvent- based lacquers. Because of advances in technology, such lacquers are as effective as solvent-based lacquers. Water-based lacquer is the most durable and least toxic of all three types of lacquers. They consist of acrylic resins, which are dissolvable in water and are safe to use. Typically water-based lacquers contain a binder made of a combination of acrylic and cellulose resin. They offer a number of benefits, such as prompt drying times, lower odor emissions, and durability. Water-based lacquers are many different products from solvent-based lacquers. As compared to oil-based finishes, water-based lacquers offer extra durability. Their lacquer finish is odorless, less toxic, and is more durable than the oil-based lacquers. The main

2. reason behind this is the low VOC (volatile organic compounds). It is easier to clean brushes with water-based varnishes by simply using warm, soapy water. They can be used on bare, painted, or stained wood and do not yellow with age. Solvent-based lacquers:- Solvent-based lacquers are lacquers that provide an attractive durable finish that is also cost-effective. They are volatile, and little toxic lacquers that are also flammable. As compared to water-based lacquers, such lacquers contain a higher level of organic solvents and also creates a strong odor that is noticeable in the area where the lacquers have been freshly applied. Solvent-based lacquers are not that easy to clean. They require more time to sufficiently dry along with more specialized cleaning methods. The general finishes exterior stains are water-based wood stains that are specially designed for furniture garage doors, and entrance doors. Both water and solvent-based lacquers act as protective and decorative topcoats, to enhance the look and increase the durability of the furniture or wood.