Understanding Negative Effects of Lacquer Thinners in Bathtub, Tile, and Countertop Refinishing

Introduction

As a specialist in bathtub, tile, and countertop coatings, SharkGrip Coatings is committed to providing quality products and educating professionals in the industry. One common issue we encounter is the improper use of lacquer thinners in the refinishing process. In this article, we aim to shed light on the dangers of using lacquer thinners with urethane coatings and emphasize the importance of proper solvent selection. We will also address the impact of underpowered sprayers and the excessive use of lacquer thinner.

The Problem with Lacquer Thinners

Lacquer thinners, commonly used in various applications, are not suitable for use with 2-part polyurethane, aliphatic, or acrylic urethane coatings. The primary reason is the negative impact they have on the curing process. Lacquer thinners contain glycol ether EB, which can react with the isocyanate in the part B catalyst, thus starving the part A of essential hydroxyl groups.

Effects of Starving Part A

When the hydroxyl groups in part A are depleted due to the reaction with lacquer thinners, it can lead to incomplete curing and compromised performance of the coating. This can result in a lack of chemical resistance, reduced hardness, and decreased flexibility. In essence, the coating may never reach its full potential in terms of durability and longevity.

Underpowered Sprayers and Excessive Lacquer Thinner

In addition to the improper use of lacquer thinners, many refinishers use underpowered 2-3-4 stage turbine HVLP sprayers. These sprayers lack the necessary power to atomize high-solid topcoats effectively. As a result, refinishers often compensate by adding excessive amounts of lacquer thinner to the mix.

This further exacerbates the issue, as the excessive lacquer thinner in the mix magnifies the negative effects on part A, increasing the risk of incomplete curing and compromised performance.

Proper Solvent Selection

To avoid these issues, it is crucial for bathtub refinishers to choose the appropriate solvents for thinning urethane coatings. Instead of lacquer thinners, professionals should opt for solvents specifically designed for use with 2-part polyurethane, aliphatic, or acrylic urethane coatings. These solvents are formulated to maintain the proper balance of components and ensure optimal curing and performance.

Contact SharkGrip Coatings for Expert Guidance

At SharkGrip Coatings, we understand the challenges faced by bathtub refinishers and offer solutions to achieve the best results. Our team of experts is ready to provide technical guidance and recommend suitable solvents for your specific refinishing needs. To learn more about our products and services, please reach out to us:

Conclusion

When it comes to bathtub refinishing, it is crucial to avoid the use of lacquer thinners due to their adverse effects on the curing process of urethane coatings. Starving part A by using lacquer thinners can lead to poor performance and a compromised finish. Additionally, the use of underpowered sprayers and excessive lacquer thinner further compounds these issues. By choosing the right solvents and seeking expert guidance from SharkGrip Coatings, professionals can ensure a successful and long-lasting refinishing job.

Copyright © 2023 Gary Alan Goel. All rights reserved. No part of this article may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the copyright owner, Gary Alan Goel.