Add acetone
Fast color. Endless possibilities.
TSC Fast-Drying Acetone Concrete Stain
Create translucent, mottled color in seconds. Ten Second Color penetrates prepared concrete and can be layered, blended, or diluted for everything from bold artistic effects to a subtle wash of color.
Interior + exteriorFast drying24 colorsLayer + blendTranslucent colorSealer required
Shop the TSC system
Stain, sample packs, and an acetone-compatible sprayer
Acetone must be added
TSC is concentrated pigment—not ready-to-spray stain.
Mix the pre-measured pigment with acetone purchased locally. Mix thoroughly before applying, and never use electrical mixing equipment with acetone.
Control the intensity
Add more acetone for a softer, more translucent look.
After the required standard mix, TSC may be diluted with additional acetone—up to five times the standard amount. Start lighter and build color with additional thin applications.
See TSC InstructionsTest first: Concrete porosity, existing color, texture, application, dilution, and the final sealer all affect the finished appearance.
The complete TSC process
Prepare carefully. Spray lightly. Build color. Seal.
Prepare
Remove paint, sealer, oil, grease, wax, curing compounds, and contaminants. Concrete must be clean, dry, and porous.
Test
Water should absorb and darken the slab rather than bead. Test the chosen color, dilution, technique, and sealer.
Mix
Add the required acetone to the pre-measured pigment. Add more acetone only when a softer result is desired.
Apply Lightly
Use an acetone-compatible sprayer about 24 inches above the surface with a consistent circular motion. Do not puddle.
Layer Color
Allow each light application to dry before evaluating. Layer one or several colors to create depth and movement.
Vacuum
Do not rinse TSC. Once dry, vacuum any loose dye residue from the surface before sealing.
Seal
Protect the stain with a compatible topical sealer. Avoid repeatedly working the roller over the same area.
Preparation matters
If Prep & Etch is used, neutralize it before TSC.
TSC itself does not require neutralizing or rinsing. However, when CR-765 Surface Prep & Etch is used to prepare the slab, CR-585 Surface Neutralizer must follow. Rinse thoroughly and let the concrete dry completely before staining.
24 colors. Endless combinations.
Use one color, layer several, or create a custom blend.
TSC creates translucent, acid-stain-inspired movement with more control over placement and no chemical reaction time. Choose from rich neutrals and bold accent colors.
Acetone safety
Ventilate the area and eliminate ignition sources.
Acetone is extremely flammable. Keep TSC and acetone away from flames, sparks, pilot lights, smoking, and other ignition sources. Follow the product instructions, acetone-container precautions, and recommended PPE.
Build the complete system
Planning an interior or exterior project?
Use the project guides to select preparation products, TSC, a compatible sealer, and application tools.
TSC FAQs
Before you begin
Review the current product instructions and safety data before preparing, mixing, applying, or sealing TSC.
Why is it called Ten Second Color?
The acetone carrier penetrates and flashes off quickly, so the color appears in seconds rather than developing through a slow chemical reaction.
Do I have to add acetone?
Yes. TSC is pre-measured pigment and must be mixed with acetone purchased locally. Add 32 ounces of acetone to the 32-ounce size or 1 gallon of acetone to the 1-gallon size.
Can I dilute TSC for a softer color?
Yes. After the standard mix, additional acetone can create a lighter, more translucent result. TSC may be diluted with up to five times the standard acetone amount. Test first and build color with light coats.
What kind of sprayer should I use?
Use equipment specifically designed for acetone and solvent-based materials, such as the ReCharger Variable Mist Sprayer. A household or garden sprayer may contain seals and hoses that acetone can damage.
Do I neutralize or rinse TSC?
No. TSC itself does not require neutralization and should not be rinsed after application. Neutralizer is required only when an acidic preparation product such as CR-765 was used before staining.
Can I layer multiple colors?
Yes. Apply one or several colors in light applications, allowing each layer to dry before evaluating and adding more.
Why might the color differ from the chart?
TSC is translucent. Existing concrete color, porosity, texture, repairs, preparation, application, dilution, and sealer all influence the final appearance.
Does TSC require a sealer?
Yes. Use a compatible topical sealer selected for the interior or exterior location. Seal the test area before making the final color decision.
Can TSC be used outdoors?
Yes, on properly prepared suitable concrete. Use an exterior-compatible sealer and consider an appropriate skid-reducing additive where needed.