Polycrylic Vs Lacquer

Both polycrylic vs lacquer are used in the home painting process. However, there are some important differences between these two types of coatings. In order for you to understand the differences between polycrylic and lacquer it is important to know what each one does. Understanding what each product does will give you the ability to choose the right type of coating for your project. In addition, it can help you understand which one you should use on a job.
Both polycrylic and lacquer are formulated to provide a smooth, slick finish to paint. The main difference between the two is the type of paint that is used. Lacquer is a thick, clear coating while polycrylic is a thin film of paint. The thicker paint contains more substance and will generally provide better adhesion to the surface you are painting. Since the thicker paint also has more substance, the job will generally take longer and be more difficult to do.
Polycrylic coatings are made from all-natural quartz crystals that contain high amounts of silicon and calcium. This combination produces a finish that is similar to lacquer. The biggest difference between polycrylic vs lacquer coatings is the thickness of the coating. Since polycrylic is thicker than lacquer, the finished project will be heavier and will require more effort to apply.
Both polycrylic and lacquer can be used on painted glass surfaces. Although it is not recommended, polycrylic coatings can be used instead of paint when dealing with highly polished metal surfaces or mirrors. There are some precautions that must be followed when working with polycrylic paint though. Since polycrylic can damage surfaces during application, it is recommended that coats are applied a full four times thicker than the paint that will be used on the surface.
Both polycrylic and lacquer have many different strengths. Lacquer has been found to be as strong as oil paint. However, oil paint is easier to use because it contains a stronger pigment and can be applied using a brush or roller. Polycrylic has the ability to bond with paint much more tightly than lacquer and it can also provide a smooth shiny surface that is not glossy at all. The only drawback to using polycrylic over lacquer is that the color can fade over time.
Polycrylic paint can be applied to almost any surface and it can be thinned out where needed to create different viscosities such as frosted, clear, and anti-static. It is an effective drying agent, however it should always be protected from direct sunlight as it can damage the paint. When applying paint to polycrylic surfaces it is important that you use a high quality paint that is specially formulated for the surface being worked on. These paints can be purchased at most auto part stores or even at some home improvement centers.
You will notice that both paints are fairly thick and having a similar application process. They both use very fine particles of paint which bond easily to the surface to give the desired effect. They also are both very durable and should last a long time if they are properly cared for. If you do get an accident though and one of the coats comes off don’t worry about the other coats. All that will happen is your paint job will come back and match the original color.
So, what is the main difference between polycrylic vs lacquer? Polycrylic is the clear version while lacquer is the clear version that can be used for decorative purposes. Both types of paint have various strengths. It all depends on what you are using the paint for, although the end result will probably be the same. With that being said, you can now decide if you need to use paint over an existing finish for added protection or if you prefer to use lacquer for the final touch.