Color concrete your way
Transform ordinary concrete with water-based, reactive acid, or fast-drying acetone-based color. Compare the three systems and choose the best look and application method for your project.
Three ways to color concrete
Most versatile
WRC · Water-based concentrate
A concentrated water-based stain with broad color choice and excellent control for DIY and professional projects.
Most naturally varied
RAC · Reactive acid chemical
A reactive stain that works with minerals in the concrete to create rich, earthy color that is different on every slab.
Fastest drying
TSC · Acetone-based
A fast-drying acetone stain designed for layering, blending, and controlled decorative effects.
Quick comparison
Choose based on the look you want, how much control you need, and the application process that fits your project.
| Feature | WRC | RAC | TSC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base | Water | Reactive acid | Acetone |
| Appearance | Controlled, translucent color | Naturally varied and unique | Fast, layered decorative color |
| Color control | High | Depends on the concrete | High |
| Drying/process | Moderate | Reaction time required | Very fast |
| Neutralization | No | Yes | No |
| Interior concrete | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Exterior concrete | Yes | Yes | Yes, with a compatible system |
| Best fit | DIY-friendly control | One-of-a-kind natural character | Fast decorative application |
Choose by appearance
Choose properly diluted WRC or TSC when you want more of the concrete’s natural character to remain visible.
Choose RAC for earthy, reactive color and natural variation that develops uniquely on each slab.
Choose WRC or TSC when you want greater control over color placement, layering, and decorative effects.
Choose by project
See the colors
Screen colors are approximate, concrete varies, and RAC reacts differently on every slab. Review the color charts and create a test area or sample before committing to the full application.
A sample shows the stain color—not an exact guarantee of the finished result on your concrete. Porosity, composition, preparation, application, and sealer all influence the final appearance.
The complete system
Start with concrete that is clean, porous, and properly prepared for the selected stain.
Shop Surface Prep →Select WRC, RAC, or TSC based on the desired appearance and application process.
Compare Stains →All three stain systems require a compatible topical sealer for protection and finished appearance.
Compare Sealers →Concrete stain FAQs
Stain is translucent. Existing variation, repairs, aggregate, and surface preparation can remain visible and influence the final appearance.
WRC is typically the most approachable choice because it is water-based, offers broad color selection, and gives you time to build the appearance with multiple thin coats. Proper surface preparation and testing are still essential.
No. Concrete stain is translucent rather than opaque. Repairs, cracks, patching, aggregate differences, and existing discoloration may remain visible and can become part of the finished character.
Yes. WRC must be diluted with water between 4:1 and 8:1 water-to-stain. TSC can be diluted with additional acetone—up to five times the standard amount—for a softer, more translucent appearance. Always test first.
RAC reacts with minerals and characteristics within the concrete. Composition, age, finishing methods, porosity, and previous treatments all influence the chemical reaction, so no two finished slabs are identical.
Yes. WRC, RAC, and TSC require a compatible topical sealer for protection. Use an exterior-rated sealer outdoors and an appropriate interior system inside.
Yes, when the concrete is properly prepared and the stain is finished with a compatible exterior sealer. Always follow the product instructions for application conditions and the complete system.