There are endless design possibilities for concrete flooring, including staining, stenciling and stamping. The Concrete Network has compiled a table comparing common flooring materials (available at http://www.concretenetwork.com/staining-concrete/comparison.html):
| Wall-to-wall carpet | Ceramic tile | Vinyl or linoleum | Wood or wood laminate | Natural stone (such as slate or marble) | Stained concrete | |
| Available in a wide spectrum of colors | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No | Unlimited |
| Longevity and performance Few flooring materials have the longevity of concrete. Carpet, tile and even wood floors eventually need replacement, which uses up resources and creates disposal problems | Poor | Good | Good | Good | Excellent | Excellent |
| Handcrafted and customizable | No | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Can radiate heat and store solar energy | No | No | No | No | Yes, depending on the material | Yes |
| Vulnerable to humidity and moisture damage | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Can harbor mold, mildew, dust mites and other allergens | Yes | No | No | Yes (mold and mildew, if the flooring becomes wet) | No | No |
| Average cost per square foot installed Depends on the complexity of the job. More elaborate stained concrete floors with multiple colors, borders, and stenciled or sawcut designs will cost more | $3.38 - 6.61 | $11 - 22 | $2.64 - 5.64 | $8 - 10 | $20 - 50+ | $2 - 15+ |