AcquaTint™ Interior Professional System
AcquaTint™ Interior Professional System
- Contractor-scale interior floor kit for 1,000 sq ft
- Built-in maintenance supply
- See Real Results – View AcquaTint™ project gallery.
Product Details
Product Details
Contractor-Scale Interior Concrete Floor System — 1,000 sq ft Coverage
The AcquaTint™ Interior Professional System is the contractor-scale kit for large interior concrete floor projects: commercial retail floors, restaurant interiors, office spaces, large residential open-concept floors, basement finishing projects, showrooms, and any indoor concrete installation covering up to 1,000 square feet. It includes 5 gallons of AcquaTint™ Colored Concrete Sealer in your color choice and 5 gallons of ProWax Polish™ in your choice of Satin or Gloss finish.
This is the system Direct Colors recommends for contractors, commercial flooring specialists, and serious DIYers tackling large interior concrete floor projects. The 5-gallon container sizes deliver the lowest per-square-foot cost in the AcquaTint™ lineup, ensure color consistency across the entire job from a single batch, and include enough ProWax Polish™ for the initial application plus future maintenance — a significant value for commercial clients who need ongoing floor care.
Why the Professional System Includes 5 Gallons of ProWax
The math works in the contractor's and building owner's favor. Five gallons of ProWax Polish™ covers approximately 2,500 square feet — far more than the 1,000 sq ft that the AcquaTint™ will color and seal. This is intentional. Here's how the ProWax breaks down on a typical 1,000 sq ft commercial floor:
- Initial application: ~1,000 sq ft = approximately 2 gallons of ProWax
- Remaining for maintenance: ~3 gallons = enough for 1–2 full maintenance reapplications
For a commercial client — a restaurant, retail store, office, or showroom — this means the building owner or property manager has the ProWax they need for ongoing floor care without placing a separate order for the first year or more. For a contractor, handing the client leftover ProWax with instructions on how to maintain the floor is a professional touch that builds trust and prevents callbacks.
ProWax Polish™ is a sacrificial floor finish — it sits on top of the cured AcquaTint™ and absorbs the daily foot traffic, furniture scuffs, spills, and cleaning wear that would otherwise hit the color finish directly. When it wears thin, the building owner or maintenance staff simply mops on a fresh coat of ProWax. No stripping. No resealing. No contractor callback. The color underneath stays intact because the ProWax took the wear.
Satin or Gloss: Choosing Your ProWax Finish
Both ProWax finishes provide the same level of protection — the choice is purely aesthetic:
ProWax Polish™ Satin — Low-sheen, natural finish. Popular in modern commercial spaces, minimalist residential interiors, and any application where the concrete should look protected but not glossy.
ProWax Polish™ Gloss — Reflective, polished finish. Popular in retail, showrooms, restaurants, and traditional high-end residential and commercial interiors where a gleaming floor is part of the design.
Select your preference from the variant dropdown above.
What AcquaTint™ Does and How It Works
AcquaTint™ is a water-based colored concrete sealer that adds permanent color to concrete and seals the surface at the same time. One product. One application. The concrete is colored and sealed in a single step. The water-based formulation is low-VOC, low-odor, and safe for indoor use in occupied or partially occupied spaces — a critical consideration for commercial projects where the building may need to remain open during or shortly after application.
AcquaTint™ cures to a satin finish and is available in 30 professional colors. The recommended application is two coats for full color saturation, and coverage is approximately 1,000 square feet per 5 gallons with two coats.
Why Contractors Buy the Professional System
Lowest per-square-foot cost — Buying AcquaTint™ and ProWax in 5-gallon containers cuts the per-gallon price significantly compared to single-gallon orders. For any interior floor over 400 sq ft, the Professional System is more economical than buying multiple 1-gallon kits.
Color consistency across the entire job — A 5-gallon container of AcquaTint™ is one consistent batch. A 1,000 sq ft commercial floor colored from one container will have uniform color across the entire surface. Multiple 1-gallon containers risk visible color shift between sections — especially noticeable on large open-concept commercial floors where the client sees the whole space at once.
One delivery, one job — Everything needed for a 1,000 sq ft interior floor project ships in one order. No waiting on backordered components, no separate orders for the sealer and the polish.
Built-in maintenance supply — Handing the client leftover ProWax with clear maintenance instructions is a professional differentiator. The client maintains their own floor between service calls, the finish stays beautiful, and the contractor builds a reputation for projects that last.
Low-VOC commercial compliance — AcquaTint™ is water-based and low-VOC, which satisfies the compliance requirements for LEED-certified buildings, schools, healthcare facilities, government contracts, and other commercial installations with mandatory VOC limits.
⚠ Test Colors Before You Commit at This Scale
At 5 gallons and 1,000 sq ft, a wrong color choice on the Professional System is an expensive mistake. Direct Colors strongly recommends ordering the AcquaTint™ Trial System to test colors on the actual floor before committing to a contractor-scale order. The Trial System costs a fraction of the Professional System and gives you — or your client — confidence that the color choice is right before the crew shows up.
How to Use the Interior Professional System
- Clean the concrete thoroughly. Use ProClean Degreaser™ to remove dirt, oils, and surface contamination. Rinse and allow to dry completely. If the concrete is currently sealed, painted, or coated, use Destiny™ Stripper first. Concrete must be clean, unsealed, and dry before AcquaTint™ is applied.
- Apply the first coat of AcquaTint™ across the entire floor. For 1,000 sq ft, plan on multiple sprayer fills and work in manageable sections to maintain a wet edge. Allow the first coat to dry for 2–4 hours.
- Apply the second coat of AcquaTint™. Two coats deliver full color saturation and maximum surface protection.
- Allow AcquaTint™ to cure fully — typically 24 hours before the next step.
- Apply ProWax Polish™ (Satin or Gloss) over the fully cured AcquaTint™. Apply a thin, even coat with a mop, microfiber applicator, or low-nap roller. Allow to dry for 30–60 minutes. A second coat of ProWax can be applied for additional sheen and protection if desired.
- Store the remaining ProWax for future maintenance. Label it clearly and hand it off to the building owner or property manager with instructions on when and how to reapply. This is one of the most appreciated professional touches a contractor can offer on an interior floor project.
What This System Does Not Include
- Surface prep chemicals — ProClean Degreaser™ and Destiny™ Stripper (if needed) are sold separately.
- Application tools — Sprayers, rollers, brushes, and mop applicators are not included.
- Color testing — The AcquaTint™ Trial System is sold separately and strongly recommended for contractor-scale projects.
What This System Is Designed For — and Not For
The Interior Professional System is built for indoor concrete floors only. ProWax Polish™ is an interior product — it's not engineered for outdoor weather exposure, UV, or rain. Do not use this system on exterior surfaces.
For exterior concrete projects, use AcquaTint™ Colored Concrete Sealer on its own or with a clear water-based concrete sealer topcoat for high-traffic exterior applications.
Pricing for Larger Projects
Need more than 1,000 sq ft of coverage? Order multiple Professional Systems, or contact Direct Colors for a contractor quote on bulk orders. Direct Colors offers wholesale pricing for working contractors and commercial flooring specialists.
Direct Colors: Made in the USA Since 1997
Direct Colors has manufactured professional-grade colored concrete sealers and floor polishes in the USA for over 25 years. The AcquaTint™ Interior Professional System pairs the two products that define the Direct Colors approach to interior concrete floors — color and seal in one step, then protect the finish with a sacrificial polish for years of low-maintenance performance. It's the same system used on commercial retail floors, restaurant interiors, and high-end residential projects across the country.
Specifications
Specifications
| System Type | 3-step acid stain system: stain, neutralize, then seal. |
|---|---|
| Sealer Options | Choose EasySeal™ solvent-based acrylic sealer or AcquaSeal™ water-based acrylic sealer, in gloss or satin. |
| Acid Stain Reaction Time | Allow approximately 4–6 hours for the acid stain to react with the concrete before neutralizing. Reaction time may vary with temperature, porosity, and slab condition. |
| Coverage | Approximately 200 sq ft per gallon with two thin coats of sealer recommended. Coverage may vary depending on concrete porosity, texture, and surface preparation. |
| Application Tools | Includes 2 all-plastic pump sprayers for acid stain and sealer, plus spiked shoes, gloves, safety glasses, and cleaning cloth. |
| Use Location | Suitable for interior concrete floors and exterior concrete surfaces such as patios, driveways, and walkways. Interior applications should have proper ventilation. |
| Ideal Surfaces | Concrete floors, patios, driveways, walkways, and other properly prepared concrete surfaces. |
| Application Temperature | Best applied when surface and air temperatures are between 40°F–95°F. |
| Dry Time & Cleanup | Sealer dry times, recoat times, and cleanup vary depending on whether you select EasySeal™ solvent-based or AcquaSeal™ water-based sealer. |
| Important Notes | Acid stain must be neutralized after the reaction step, and sealer is required to protect the finished surface. Spiked shoes help prevent footprints while the stain is still reacting. |
Items Included
Items Included
| Choice of Stain Color | AcquaTint™ Water-Based Colored Sealer - 5 Gallon. Yields coverage for about 1000 sq. ft. |
|---|---|
| Choice of Floor Wax* | ProWax Polish™ Gloss or Satin - 5 Gallon. Yields coverage for about 2500 sq. ft., allowing for initial application and multiple maintenance rounds. |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How does AcquaTint™ work?
How does AcquaTint™ work?
AcquaTint™ is a water-based tinted sealer that combines color and protection in one product. It coats the concrete surface with a semi-translucent layer of pigmented sealer, providing subtle, natural-looking color while simultaneously protecting the surface. Unlike acid stain, AcquaTint™ does not chemically react with the concrete – it applies color topically with a much more natural look and durable finish than concrete paint.
What is the difference between AcquaTint™ and EasyTint™?
What is the difference between AcquaTint™ and EasyTint™?
Both are tinted sealers (stain and sealer in one), but the key difference is the formulation. AcquaTint™ is water-based with low VOC, making it ideal for indoor applications – it's the eco-friendly, safer choice for homes with pets and kids. EasyTint™ is solvent-based and provides a deeper color pop, but it off-gasses a strong chemical odor for 3-5 days, making it better suited for exterior or well-ventilated areas.
Where should I use AcquaTint™?
Where should I use AcquaTint™?
We recommend AcquaTint™ primarily for indoor concrete surfaces that are smooth/machine-troweled or lightly textured. It also produces great results on indoor brick pavers and stamped concrete. For exterior or heavy traffic areas, apply a topcoat of AcquaSeal™ water-based clear sealer for enhanced durability and environmental protection.
How long do I need to wait between coats of AcquaTint™?
How long do I need to wait between coats of AcquaTint™?
Allow AcquaTint™ to dry for at least 12 hours between coats. Apply at least two thin coats for best results. Do NOT walk on wet sealer as it will leave permanent impressions on your surface. Cover your feet with plastic bags to protect your floor finish during application.
What temperature range is required for AcquaTint™ application?
What temperature range is required for AcquaTint™ application?
For best results, apply AcquaTint™ when the surface temperature is between 60°F (15°C) and 95°F (35°C). Applying in conditions outside this range can affect drying time and final appearance.
Will AcquaTint™ hide imperfections in my concrete?
Will AcquaTint™ hide imperfections in my concrete?
No. AcquaTint™ coats the concrete surface with color but does not conceal discolorations, blemishes, cracks, or other surface irregularities. It may actually accentuate porosity variations. The product usually appears lighter when dry compared to its wet appearance, so keep this in mind when selecting your color.
Do I need to apply wax after AcquaTint™?
Do I need to apply wax after AcquaTint™?
For interior surfaces, we recommend applying ProWax Polish™ as a topcoat after AcquaTint™ has fully cured (at least 48 hours). The wax will improve durability, enhance the shine, and protect the sealer from daily wear and tear. Re-wax every 6-8 months for high-traffic areas or as needed.
How do I prepare my concrete for AcquaTint™?
How do I prepare my concrete for AcquaTint™?
The concrete surface must be clean and free of dirt, oil, grease, paint, glues, non-water-based sealers, curing agents, efflorescence, and other contaminants. Ensure the concrete has cured for at least 28 days. Perform a water absorption test – if water doesn't absorb within 5 minutes, etch the surface using CitrusEtch™ to open the pores. Allow the surface to dry completely before application.
How to Apply AcquaTint™
Explore our full range of AcquaTint™ translucent concrete colors and find the perfect tone for your project.
- Preparation
- Application
- Drying Times & Protection
- Maintenance & Safety
Product Videos
AcquaTint™ Satin
Explore the complete AcquaTint™ Satin palette and discover the perfect shade for your concrete project.
- Semi-translucent colors that highlight natural concrete beauty
- Satin finish ideal for both interior and exterior applications
- Restores and enriches faded or plain concrete surfaces
- Designed for floors, countertops, walls, and decorative overlays
⚠️ Important: When You Need a Clear Topcoat Over AcquaTint™
AcquaTint™ is a complete color-and-seal product for most applications. For many residential patios, interior floors, and low-traffic surfaces, two coats of AcquaTint™ is the finished job. However, a clear topcoat is either recommended or required in certain situations:
| Application | Topcoat Needed? | What to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Interior floors (general) | Recommended | ProWax Polish™ — acts as a sacrificial layer that protects the color finish from daily wear. Easy to reapply as it wears. |
| Exterior low-traffic (patios, walkways) | Not required | AcquaTint™ alone is sufficient |
| Exterior high-traffic (driveways, commercial) | Recommended | A clear water-based concrete sealer for added durability |
| Slip resistance required (pool decks, stairs, ramps) | Required | Clear water-based concrete sealer + OxiGrip™ slip-resistant additive |