Are You Committing a Guitar Sin with Your Finish Choice?
As a guitar enthusiast, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make with your guitar is on the finish. The finish has a significant impact on both the appearance and the sound of the guitar. Many guitar lovers, however, remain unaware of the implications of their finish choices.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss various types of guitar finishes and their effects on the sound and appearance of your guitar. We’ll also provide guidance on how to choose the perfect finish for your guitar and dispel some common myths and misconceptions about finishes. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Types of Guitar Finishes
a. Lacquer Finish
b. Polyurethane Finish
c. Nitrocellulose Finish
d. Oil and Wax Finishes
e. Other Varnish Finishes
3. How Finish Choice Affect the Sound Quality of Guitars
4. The Impact of Finish Choice on the Appearance of Guitars
5. Common Myths and Misconceptions about Guitar Finishes
6. Conclusion
7. FAQ
Types of Guitar Finishes
Guitar finishes can be divided into several categories based on the materials used. Here are the most common guitar finishes:
Lacquer Finish
Lacquer is a popular finish used on guitars and is made of a mixture of nitrocellulose and other solvents. It is known for its durability, resistance to scratches and dents. The only downside of this finish is that it can yellow over time.
Polyurethane Finish
Polyurethane finish is the most resilient finish used on guitars. It is known for its ability to resist scratches and survive harsh conditions. However, if you want your guitar to breathe, think twice before you apply a polyurethane finish, as they are considered airtight.
Nitrocellulose Finish
Nitrocellulose finish provides a thin and soft layer of protection for your guitar. This finish is known for its ability to enhance the tone of the guitar and deliver a warm vintage tone. Nitrocellulose finishes, however, thin over time, so be careful not to expose your guitar to too much sunlight.
Oil and Wax Finishes
Oil and wax finishes are gaining popularity nowadays, and it is easy to tell why. This finish is entirely made of natural products, which means it is eco-friendly and poses no harm to you. Also, the thin protective layer it provides helps to promote the guitar’s natural tonality and resonance.
Other Varnish Finishes
There are other finishes you can apply to your guitar. These finishes include Waterborne Finish, Tung Oil Finish, and Shellac Finish. They all offer different levels of protection and aesthetic appeal.
How Finish Choice Affect the Sound Quality of Guitars
The finish of a guitar can significantly affect the overall sound quality of the guitar. Applying a heavy, thick heavy finish can negatively affect the tonality of your guitar. For instance, a heavy polyurethane finish will act as a noise-damping insulator, and this may lessen the resonance and vibrance of your guitar’s tone.
In contrast, a thin nitrocellulose finish will allow your guitar to resonant freely. Therefore, nitrocellulose finishes are excellent for producing warm, vintage tones. However, as mentioned earlier, nitrocellulose finishes tend to thin out over time due to natural exposure to sunlight and other weather elements.
The Impact of Finish Choice on the Appearance of Guitars
Your choice of guitar finish will significantly affect the appearance of your guitar. This applies to both the color of the finish and the sheen level of the surface. For example, a glossy varnish finish on a guitar’s wood top will give it an elegant and luxurious appearance.
In contrast, a matte finish will give your guitar a more casual and rustic look. To achieve a depth of color in the guitar finish, you can apply layers of coatings with a tint. It is essential to understand that the final appearance of the guitar finish depends on personal preferences and the intended use of the guitar.
Common Myths and Misconceptions about Guitar Finishes
1. Thicker Finishes Offer More Protection
It is a common misconception that thicker guitar finishes offer better protection for the guitar’s wood. However, the thickness of the finish has no correlation with the level of protection it offers. Instead, the quality of the materials and the application methods are more relevant to the protection the finish provides.
2. High Gloss Finishes Offer the Best Tone
Another common misconception is that high gloss finishes offer better tonality. However, high gloss finishes do not always guarantee superior tonality. In fact, a high gloss finish can dampen the sound and kill the guitar’s resonance. It is essential to note that the acoustic-loudness of your guitar depends on the type of wood and the design, not the finish.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect guitar finish is an essential decision that has a significant impact on both the sound quality and the appearance of your guitar. It is, therefore, crucial to understand the pros, cons, and unique qualities of each type of finish before settling on one. We hope you have found this article helpful in guiding you to make an informed choice. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the topic, please feel free to contact us.
FAQ
1. How long does it take for a guitar finish to settle?
It typically takes about three to six months, depending on the type of finish and the weather conditions. After that, the finish should remain stable for several years.
2. How often should I clean my guitar finish?
You should clean your guitar finish every few months, depending on how frequently you play your guitar. Dust and grime can accumulate on your guitar over time and affect its tone and appearance.
3. Can I reapply a new finish over an old one?
It is possible to refinish your guitar and apply a new finish over an old one, but it requires professional expertise and proper preparation. If it isn’t done correctly, it can affect the quality of the guitar’s finish and tone.
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