Q: I have been using Rockler’s gel polyurethane since it was first put on the market. Now that Lawrence-McFadden has gone out of business, is there a product that performs as well their gel polyurethane?
A: As of Monday, January 4, 2010, Lawrence McFadden is in the process of transferring its formulations to Seagrave coatings in NJ. This will need approval from the courts but it will probably be approved. It remains to be seen which formulas Seagrave will continue to sell and where they will sell them. Below is a letter dated January 5, 2010 from the owners of Lawrence McFadden Co. explaining the transfer. In the meantime, I will keep my readers posted and share my opinions on a quality gel polyurethane.
Letter from Lawrence McFadden
To Our Valued Friends and Customers:
We recently entered into an Asset Purchase Agreement for the sale of our intangible and intellectual property to Seagrave Coatings Corporation of Carlstadt, New Jersey. Although the sale currently remains subject to Bankruptcy Court approval, we anticipate a final determination
Shortly. Nonetheless, at this time, LMC is in the process of transferring title and possession of its formulae, other intangible property and related finished goods to Seagrave in order to insure
A timely and smooth transition of our operations and your orders.
Pleased be advised that as a way of showing our appreciation for your business and loyality to LMC over the years and in order to avoid any delays or interruptions in your orders, as of January 4th, 2020, please direct all inquiries to either (1) Hill Pressley, Chief Chemist at Seagrave (regarding any existing orders), or (2) Lisa Truesdale, Customer Service Representative (regarding any new orders), both at 201-933-1000. Seagrave is a long established technology driven manufacturer serving customers with aerospace, industrial, defense, maintenance, and home furnishings for over 150 years with an impeccable reputation in the coatings industry. We are confident that you will continue to be well served by Seagrave, its employees and its products.
Best wishes for a successful 2010.
Sincerely, Peter B. Beck Douglas B. Hampton, Sr.
Michael,
Thanks for this information. I posted links to your site on my blog today when I became aware of this situation since I had been recently posting on finishing topics.
I would greatly appreciate your expert advice on an alternative clear satin gel varnish.
Thanks for this and for the excellent finishing expertise you provide for the woodworking community.
Rob
Rob Porcaro
January 20th, 2010
Seagrave Coatings is in the process of buying Lawrence McFadden formulas. I will speak with the owner next week after the court makes its determination on the bankruptcy buyout, and let you know then what to expect. I’ll post the results of our conversation as a new blog entry.
Michael
January 23rd, 2010