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Our Mission

To transition the world’s craftsmanship to healthy and sustainable practices by formulating, manufacturing, and educating people on specialty water-based coatings that will last for generations.

Our Story

My Dad (AKA) Derek Becker

He’s a pretty cool cat. It all started in a barn. Well not really. My dad was born in 1933 and turned 86 years old this year. He is the hardest working man that I know and still insists on working today, even at 84! He is truly the sweetest, kindest, most giving man that you will ever meet. He is super smart, and can do anything. In fact, I think he is Superman! (only I know this)

A little history

  • Derek went to paint school in San Francisco, CA where he learned how to formulate all kinds of coatings. He worked as Head Chemist and Formulator for several companies.
  • He was drafted into the Navy and played the saxophone in the Navy Band. (Cool)
  • At 27, he married my mom. They are still together 58 years strong.

Back to the Barn

As far as I know, my dad has always been making paint and specialty coatings, but what I remember the most is hanging out with him in an old barn next to our house in Candler, Florida. The barn is where all the magical formulations began. Not only did he make paint, he made all the mixing equipment and machinery to make his batches with. See, he really is a genius. He had a great, successful business going, supplying paint and finishes to several local companies.

In 1989 my folks moved to Mountain City, Tennessee and opened up their family business called Becker Labs. That is where the manufacturing plant for CrystaLac products was born and is still operating. CrystaLac Top Coats are made with the highest quality ingredients and everything is Environmentally Safe! Making all Eco Friendly products that are easy to use and extremely durable plus great customer service, has always been top priority for our company.

FYI

Oh, and BTW, I’m Dorinda. I’m the youngest child in our family of four kids. I have heard it said that the youngest child is always the smartest and most beautiful. That is true. LOL. I have had the privilege of working side by side with my dad for over 20 years now. He has taught me everything I know about life, finishes, formulating and running a business. He has also passed on some great genes for an awesome sense of humor and some musical talent as well. As of January 2017, I have taken on the family business and CrystaLac is now my baby. Together we make MAGIC!

 

Derek & DeLite Becker

Our "Why"

​Innovation starts with experienced professionals who understand marketplace needs. This happens when talented Research and Development professionals with an entrepreneurial spirit apply new ways of thinking to solve unique problems. The CrystaLac Company, formerly Becker Labs, provides applied research and development services to those clients desiring research and development regarding existing and/or new technologies.

It’s not what we can make, but “what if” we make the right coating for your product and manufacturing process. “What if” we take your existing coatings and re-develop a high performance product that is environmentally friendly and well below the EPA requirements. “What if” we develop a product that out performs your existing product and is also better for the environment?  

Environmental Friendly: The CrystaLac Company has been a leader in the development and manufacturing of waterborne coatings since their inception over 28 years ago. They continue to be innovation leaders in the development of environmentally-friendly coatings that reduce Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) emissions.

Formulation for Success: The CrystaLac Company has a specialized team of chemists, formulation, technical specialists and professionals, with a unique blend of talent and expertise that sets us apart from the pack. The leadership team consists of our founder and head chemist, Derek Becker. Derek is very hands on as he still oversees our R&D Laboratory. He comes with over 50 years of experience in Research and Development of coatings and specialty materials. Dorinda Shepherd - formulations, micro batching and product validation expertise, as she has been developing and perfecting products for over 20 years. Together these professionals oversee the manufacturing process to maximize the potential of each coating and ensure a long and trusted relationship with customers. For over 25 years, The CrystaLac Company (formerly Becker Labs) has worked with prestigious, premier, fortune 500 companies on their coating needs. If you have a specific coating need, contact us so we can discuss our lab capabilities and development consultation services.

Why The CrystaLac Company: Because they pride themselves as developers of environmentally friendly products, many of our clients use our services to replace existing products that are harsh to the environment. There are times when existing technologies require tweaking to meet a specific need, a complete revamping of a complete line of products are needed or needed in order to gain acceptance from a customer or even new development may be required based on market analysis or as they become a part of their customer’s product development team. The CrystaLac Company can assess the state of the technology with respect to the target market, identify requirements for product acceptance or qualification, and assist in developing the technology for market. The CrystaLac Company can provide the basic and applied research assistance necessary for successful product launch.

Join the Movement

Transitioning to waterborne coatings protects you, your family, your pets, and the environment from the harmful effects of VOCs. At CrystaLac, our goal is to help you with the transition by formulating and manufacturing the highest quality coatings for your projects.

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Here at CrystaLac, we are here to give you confidence and empower you to protect your incredible projects with waterborne coatings and finishes.​

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