Affordability 

Depending on the size of the project, condition of the concrete slab, and complexity of the design, the price of acid-stained concrete flooring may range between $5-$7 per square foot using existing concrete, or between $8-$10 per square foot using a concrete overlay.  The important point to note here is that acid-stained concrete flooring almost always costs considerably less than the material it mimics (e.g., marble and other forms of natural stone). Also, basic acid-stain applications are usually notably less than competing traditional alternatives, such as quality carpets, ceramic, porcelain or luxury vinyl tile (installed), and hardwood or wood laminates. There is no other flooring media that provides such a high end look at such an affordable cost.

On top of this, because of the durability of acid-stained concrete,  there are long term savings involved as well.  Unlike with carpeting or tile, an acid-stained concrete floor will never need to be torn out or replaced.  It will uniquely withstand both time and abuse.  So beyond the initial investment, the only costs involved with an acid-stained concrete floor are for periodic maintenance. And annual maintenance costs for acid-stained concrete flooring in construction publications are generally estimated to be way below that necessary for traditional floor coverings, (about $0.17 per square foot).  Our own experience is that maintenance for acid-stained concrete in the home, however, is even less than that:  generally no more than $50-$75 in materials, per year, for a floor ranging from 1,000-2,000 square feet.