Controlled color. Natural character.
WRC Water-Based Concrete Stain
Water Reducible Concentrate provides predictable, adjustable color while allowing the natural variation of the concrete to remain visible.
Interior + exteriorLow odorAdjustable colorTopical sealer required
Shop the WRC system
Stain, preparation, samples, and sprayers
Proper preparation is required
Most WRC projects require Prep & Etch
WRC needs clean, porous concrete so the stain can penetrate and develop properly. For most applications, CR-765 Surface Prep & Etch is part of the preparation process.
Whenever CR-765 Surface Prep & Etch is used, CR-585 Surface Neutralizer must be used afterward.Then rinse thoroughly and allow the concrete to dry completely before applying WRC.
1CleanRemove dirt, oil, grease, coatings, and contaminants.
2Prep & EtchOpen and prepare the concrete surface for most WRC applications.
3NeutralizeAlways use CR-585 after CR-765 Prep & Etch.
4Rinse + DryRemove all residue and let the slab dry completely.
5Stain + SealApply diluted WRC, let dry, and protect with compatible sealer.
Always dilute WRC
Control the finished color with water and thin coats
Do not apply WRC full strength. More water creates a softer, more translucent appearance. Additional thin coats build depth and color more evenly than one heavy coat.
1 part WRC
1 part WRC
1 part WRC
Important: Minimum dilution is 4 parts water to 1 part stain. Do not exceed 8 parts water to 1 part stain. Mix thoroughly, apply multiple thin coats, and never allow the stain to puddle.
Explore WRC colors
Use one color, layer colors, or create a custom blend.
WRC’s pigmented system provides greater control than reactive acid stain while still allowing the concrete’s natural character to remain visible. Screen colors are approximate—always test on the actual concrete.
WRC application overview
Prepare carefully. Apply lightly. Protect completely.
Clean
Remove dirt, grease, oil, coatings, curing compounds, wax, and contaminants. Use CR-580 Degreaser where needed.
Prep & Etch
Most WRC applications require CR-765. Work in manageable sections, scrub the surface, and do not let the etching solution dry.
Neutralize
After every use of CR-765, apply CR-585 Surface Neutralizer. Rinse until no powdery, gritty, or chalky residue remains.
Test + Dry
Allow the slab to dry completely. About ¼ cup of water should absorb and darken the concrete within approximately 30 seconds.
Dilute + Apply
Mix WRC at 4:1 to 8:1 water-to-stain. Apply evenly in multiple thin coats and do not allow puddles.
Seal
After WRC dries completely, protect it with a compatible topical sealer selected for the project location.
Set the right expectation
WRC is translucent—not opaque paint.
WRC adds color while allowing the character of the concrete to remain visible. Repairs, patches, texture, aggregate differences, discoloration, and variations in porosity may remain visible and affect the finished appearance.
Build the complete system
Planning an interior or exterior project?
Use the project guides to calculate preparation products, WRC stain, compatible sealer, and application tools.
WRC FAQs
Before you begin
Review the current product instructions and technical data sheet before preparing or staining the concrete.
Do I need Surface Prep & Etch before applying WRC?
Most WRC applications require CR-765 Surface Prep & Etch to properly clean and open the concrete before staining. Surface condition and previous treatments can affect the preparation required, so perform a water-absorption test and review the technical data sheet.
Do I need Surface Neutralizer?
Yes whenever CR-765 Surface Prep & Etch is used. CR-585 Surface Neutralizer must follow Prep & Etch. Then rinse thoroughly and allow the concrete to dry completely before applying WRC.
Must WRC be diluted?
Yes. Do not apply WRC full strength. Use between 4 and 8 parts water to 1 part WRC. More water produces a softer, more translucent appearance.
Can I apply more than one coat?
Yes. Multiple thin coats provide greater control and more even color development than one heavy coat. Allow each coat to dry before evaluating the color and applying another.
Can WRC colors be mixed?
Yes. WRC colors may be mixed before application or layered to create custom tones. Record ratios carefully if you need to reproduce the blend.
Why might the color look uneven?
WRC is translucent, so differences in porosity, preparation, repairs, finishing methods, texture, and application can affect color absorption. Proper preparation, thin coats, and a test area are essential.
Does WRC require a sealer?
Yes. WRC requires a compatible topical sealer. Use CR-515 Inside Water-Based Acrylic for compatible interior projects and CR-561 Outside Solvent-Based Acrylic for compatible exterior stained concrete.