Concrete stain in Boston is fast becoming one of the most popular floor finishing procedures done in Greater Boston. Frankly, that's not too surprising once you get a look at the potential that lies in this innovative concrete finishing practice. If you're looking for a flooring solution that combines utility, cost effectiveness, and best of all, beauty, then you'd be well-advised to look into Boston concrete staining for your home.
Boston Concrete Stain 101
Since staining concrete in Boston for decorative purposes is a relatively new industry, it pays to start by shedding a little light on the process. Concrete stain in Boston refers to the process of applying an acidic compound to a concrete slab in order to prep it for the application of different chemical stains that react with compounds in the concrete itself; staining concrete in Boston is also referred to as "acid staining" for just that reason. The result is nothing short of stunning. Concrete can be stained to resemble everything from distressed leather to polished marble and glazed stone. And if you're really feeling daring, you can also use concrete stamping, sawing, or other forms of patterning in order to create a concrete floor that resembles tile, is ingrained with decorative patterns, or resembles rough stone or brick. The possibilities are virtually endless.
Where to Use Boston Concrete Stain
The real question here shouldn't be which areas of a home are a good candidate for concrete stain in Boston as much as which areas aren't. The truth of the matter is that because concrete staining in Boston is actually just really good-looking concrete, it can be used anywhere you can pour a slab. Driveways, garages, patios, indoor and outdoor walkways, foyers, formal living and dining rooms, bedrooms, game rooms and wet bars, you name it, concrete staining in Boston is going to look good there. About the only limitation to this process is the weight of the concrete itself. That doesn't rule out higher stories altogether, but you should definitely have your home inspected for structural limitations if you're thinking about concrete staining anywhere that you have doubts.
Boston Concrete Stain and Cost
Since the size, style, and particulars of your individual project have such a large influence on how much it costs to stain concrete in Boston, you're best bet is to talk to a professional who specializes in concrete staining in order to get a sound estimate on how much your potential project is going to run. Bostonians will be glad to know, however, that compared to other flooring alternatives, Boston concrete staining is very cost competitive. For example, despite its luxurious look (think polished marble!), concrete staining can cost as little as half as much as outfitting an equivalent space with hardwood flooring.
Boston Concrete Stain and Old vs. New Slabs
To be honest, there's only one major drawback that we see when it comes to Boston concrete stain, and that has to do with the difference between applying it to new versus old concrete slabs. Ideally, you want to apply acid staining to a newly poured slab, since it can be poured with the staining in mind and be immediately ready for the staining process without any further preparation. Homeowners thinking about concrete stain in Boston for older slabs should be forewarned. The process required to prep an already finished slab, even if it's plain concrete, is substantial and can raise the costs of going with concrete staining significantly. That being the case, plan ahead if you think concrete stain is in your future. Setting up your concrete staining project in conjunction with a new concrete pour is your best bet if you hope to get the most bang for your buck.
Boston Concrete Stain and the DIYer
Apologies to most DIYers out there. This really isn't a job that most home handymen can handle, especially if your hope is to get the kind of stunning results you're likely to come across in magazines, websites, and showrooms. That isn't to say it's not possible, but the process, equipment, and expertise required to have concrete staining in Boston turn out like you plan is generally beyond those who aren't experienced staining concrete in the first place. That being the case, be sure to shop around for someone who knows what they're doing if you're thinking about concrete staining for your Greater Boston home. Talk to at least three contractors, be sure to ask for, and check, references, and ask to see samples of their work. It's the only surefire way to make certain your Boston concrete stain project will end up looking like you expect it to. 
Matt Goering, formerly a carpenter and house painter, is a freelance writer for the home improvement industry who has published over 600 articles.