Season's Greetings from MODE CONCRETE

Raw Concrete Floors Naturally Look Clean and Contemporary - A Simple, Inexpensive Process with Concrete Sealers & Waxes perfect for Commerical or Residential spaces - article by artisans MODE CONCRETE

If you like the natural look and color of regular standard grey concrete, we usually recommend sealing and waxing.  It's our favorite look, and totally differs from project to project - every piece of concrete is original in it's coloring, textures, irregularities, and variations that occur naturally when the concrete dries and cures.  And the best thing about finishing your existing concrete floors... usually most projects (like this featured project) only take a few days. Taking the time to put down this final layer of protection not only prolongs the life of your concrete floor, but also greatly enhances and preserves its natural beauty and appearance.

Here is a natural concrete floor we completed for our Kelowna client.  Natural concrete is where it's at.  Look at all that natural concrete beauty + amazingly high ceilings.  This is space feels light, airy, open and contemporary with a pop of sparkle coming from the light fixtures.  Love.

Think of a concrete floor sealer as a protective barrier or sacrificial layer that will improve its appearance, durability and longevity.  Stain protection is the main reason for sealing concrete floors, especially in areas of your home or business where food and drink will be consumed. High traffic areas or exposure to machinery or pets may also cause damage to a concrete floors that can be prevented with adequate sealant and wax. New concrete floors should be sealed after they are completed (make sure concrete is fully dried and cured first), while existing concrete floors should be sealed every few years based on wear and tear.

Here is a natural concrete floor we completed for our Kelowna client.  Natural concrete is where it's at.

Properly sealed and maintained concrete (natural or stained) will give the same beautiful appearance for years to come. It is extremely durable, requires very little maintenance, and will likely outlast the home or business which surrounds it. The materials used to seal stained concrete include water-based sealers, waxes, alternative green sealers and solvent based sealers. Always make sure that the concrete contractor preforms tests on small areas, or shows you samples of what to expect. Also make sure that your concrete is protected during the construction phase to minimize visible marks, staining and concrete damage that often occurs.

The top question we get 'AREN'T CONCRETE FLOORS COLD AND HARD?' and our answer is always, 'expect the same temperature and hardness as tile or other natural stone flooring options.'

And there's your daily dose of concrete flooring information from the artisans at Mode Concrete in Kelowna BC.  Please contact us for pricing or more information for any services we discuss in our blog.  We service Kelowna and the entire Okanagan Valley, in BC Canada (and can travel anywhere depending on client requirements). 

Contemporary Concrete Flooring Overlay Possible on Wooden Substrate - by specialists Mode Concrete in Kelowna BC

A concrete overlay we applied to a wooden subfloor, for our Kelowna client.

Concrete floors are modern, natural and raw. People who want a meticulous pristine material that will always look flawless, steer clear of concrete. It develops wear marks, patinas, natural irregularities, marbling and hairline cracks naturally as it ages. Concrete is a natural material, and regardless if you keep your floor natural grey concrete or stain the surface, the natural patina is what makes concrete so fab and makes your floor totally unique. We are true concrete lovers, are you?

Why do people love concrete floors?

• Well, firstly and most importantly... they look AWESOME!
• They are easy to clean and maintain.
• Amazing longevity, concrete will likely outlive you and your house.  Concrete lasts much longer when compared to other flooring materials.
• Concrete is heat and spill resistant.
• Super durable and easier to repair than other options.
• Concrete is a clean flooring surface, with little worry of bacteria or allergens since there is usually no grout lines.
• Concrete floors wear wonderfully, concrete is totally unique and raw - it ages just like natural stone.
• Future changes (colors, finishes, stains) are usually easy to change and personalize, if your style changes or if you sell your house.  Concrete is easy to cover if you ever want to install other flooring on top.
• Concrete skim coats, micro-toppings and overlays are similar to the thickness and weight of tile.
• The top reason that people love concrete floors, is how shockingly stunning they are!

 Here is a standard grey concrete overlay we applied to a wooden subfloor, for our Kelowna client.

 Here is a standard grey concrete overlay we applied to a wooden subfloor, for our Kelowna client.

If you’re looking for some information about putting concrete floors on wooden substrates, you've come to the right place. Keep in mind we use the most cutting edge products and techniques for our applications and only experienced artisans should complete these sort of applications. Our overlay can be laid onto existing substrate and achieve the look and feel of polished concrete. Our overlays are VOC (volatile organic compounds) and emission free. Our dustless process of finishing concrete floors is done with natural, safe, non-toxic finishing products. After preparing the surface, we can pour a thin layer of new concrete to virtually any surface or room in your house. 

Depending on the flex in your wooden subfloor, hairline cracks are natural and expected to appear on the surface. This comes from the concrete slab being a single, solid piece of rock and the wood underneath is flexible and changes and shifts consistently. When the foundation of the house shifts, the concrete is subjected to various flex points and pressures which take the form of tiny hairline fractures in the material. For us, we love this aspect of concrete and it adds tremendous character to the floor.  

For additional information, check out the Concrete Networks article about Concrete in the Kitchen or other rooms in your house - http://www.concretenetwork.com/kitchen-floor.html.

If you have any more questions about anything we discuss in our blog, please contact us today for additional information.

Reclaimed Pine Beetle Wood / Concrete Furniture - Modern, Sustainable, High-Quality - created by the specialists at Mode Concrete in BC

We have been playing around with reclaimed pine beetle wood + modern simple concrete shapes. We are going to turn this idea into a bar stool, coffee tables, and maybe even a dining table... oh the endless possibilities!!

We take what was once considered unusable wood and give it new life. We always try to preserve as much of the wood’s natural character as possible, by highlighting the raw natural imperfections as the main feature of the piece.  We finish our furniture with ultra-low-VOC water-based stains and natural waxes.  Our customers want high-end design but are also conscious of sustainability.

Mode Concrete is focused on high quality and one-of-a-kind custom designs, staying as far away from mass production as possible.  If you are looking for a high quality, BC made, environmentally conscious, modern design - you should most definitely contact us!

Considering Concrete Floors? Main Benefits of Concrete Flooring Discussed by the specialists at Mode Concrete in BC Canada

If you want your space to be ultra-stylish and have major design impact, consider concrete floors... the flooring for the stylish at heart.  Concrete floors get better with age and like freckles, concrete floors help to camouflage wear as it gets older.  With concrete we embrace and look forward to variations, irregularities, and the patina that develops with wear over time. There are good reasons why interior designers often choose concrete for their most cutting edge spaces. Stained, colored, textured or smooth, concrete boasts limitless design options. It provides a blank canvas upon which homeowners can leave their mark.  But beyond the design advantages, these surfaces are low maintenance and they blend seamlessly with the architectural aesthetics of various design styles.  

Clients who want a meticulous, predictable, pristine material that will always look flawless; steer clear of concrete.  It develops wear marks, patinas, natural irregularities, marbling and hairline cracks naturally as it ages.  If you are staining your concrete floor, the darker or more vibrant the stains you choose, the natural patinas may be more obvious. The reason is simply because there is a greater variation between the top layer of stained concrete and the concrete material itself. Concrete is a natural material, and regardless if you keep your floor natural grey concrete or stain the surface, the natural patina and variations is what makes concrete so fab. We are true concrete lovers, are you?

These are pictures of natural concrete floors that MODE CONCRETE finished.

 These are pictures of natural concrete floors that MODE CONCRETE finished.

Concrete Flooring Benefits:

• Sustainable. Concrete does not contain the harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that many synthetic carpets or materials do.  Our finishing processes are totally green, safe, dustless and provides the ultimate natural protection.  Concrete floors avoid the consumption of new materials and utilizes the materials already present.  
• Easy Care. Maintenance is simple. Just vacuum or sweep and follow up with a warm damp mop. The amount of traffic your floors receive will determine the amount of maintenance it will need. A concrete floor with normal traffic will probably need a reapplication of the finish every 2-3 years.
• Longevity. A floor that has been finished and maintained can be expected to last a hundred years or more. Let's appreciate how an aged and cracked concrete floor is not hidden under new tiles or carpet, but instead celebrated for the history and life it holds. Concrete floors create an incredible impact when put on display along with other architecturally salvaged materials.
• Energy Storage Capacity. Concrete floors can help you save energy. They feel cooler in the summer, so there is less of a need to use air conditioning. During the winter, concrete floors absorb the solar heat from the sun or your fireplace, helping to keep your home warm. For those with radiant-heated floors, concrete is the best flooring surface to maximize heat conduction and minimize energy usage. Some worry that a concrete floor will be cold and hard on their feet. The truth is that finished concrete floors are no colder or hard-feeling as other common flooring types like ceramic tiles, stone and marble.
• Economical. The cost of finishing your existing concrete floors is very low, about $2.50 to $3.50 per square foot to finish/polish/buff a plain gray slab, giving it a lustrous sheen. The concrete's natural tonal differences, subtle cracks and aggregates take on a stonelike, natural feel.  You get ultimate longevity and durability when comparing concrete to other flooring options.
• Non Combustible.  An exposed concrete floor is non-flammable, non-combustible, and more robust in a fire situation than alternative materials.

Referencing websites and for additional information, check out the Concrete Networks article about Concrete in the Kitchen - http://www.concretenetwork.com/kitchen-floor.html.  Also check out http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/7977902/list/5-Benefits-to-Concrete-Floors-for-Everyday-Living at Houzz.com, where they discuss the 5 main benefits of concrete.

If you have any questions about any of the services we discuss in this blog or on our website, please contact us today.

Ante Up Any Space with Contemporary Concrete Floors - overlay applied to wooden subfloor by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna, BC

Ante up any space, with a stunning concrete floor all your friends will envy.  MODE CONCRETE created this standard grey concrete floor overlay, on the main floor of this residence (on a wooden substrate). The picture below is wonderful, because you can actually see how thin the concrete floor is.  

Concrete overlay completed by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC.

Concrete floors (or overlays) are of similar thickness and weight to tile. Concrete acts as a blank canvas and any color or finish can be applied, but natural and raw is our top seller and personal fave. Our master concrete artisan and company owner, Gareth Tyrrell works on every job from beginning to end, ensuring top quality results for our clients.

Concrete overlay installed by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC.

Concrete overlay installed by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC.

Concrete overlay installed by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC.

Concrete overlay installed by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC.

There have been lots of recent product developments that challenge traditional thinking of what 'concrete' is. With traditional concrete, you would definitely need to reinforce and check the structure before any application or overlay is applied. If the concrete contractors use the latest high performance products, the concrete floor or overlay could actually be lighter than tile and usually only 3/8" thick. 

Depending on the flex in your wooden subfloor, hairline cracks are natural and expected to appear on the surface. This comes from the concrete slab being a single, solid piece of rock and the wood underneath is flexible and changes and shifts consistently. When the foundation of the house shifts, the concrete is subjected to various flex points and pressures which take the form of tiny hairline fractures in the material. Seams, contraction joints, cut lines and schluter strip help curb this but if you plan on doing concrete on any flexible surface you can expect movement and natural unevenness from slab to slab. These natural imperfections all add personality to your floor. Concrete is perfectly imperfect and we love it!

Please contact us about any of the services we discuss in this blog.  Check out our website - modeconcrete.com for more pictures and additional details about our company :)

Contemporary Polished Concrete Floors Naturally Look Amazing - Simple, Dustless, Green, Safe (no VOCs), Zero Waste Process - by Mode Concrete in Kelowna BC

If you like the contemporary look and color of grey concrete floors, we usually recommend using MODE CONCRETE (of course!) so we can professionally finish your concrete floor!  We specialize in finishing concrete floors in an economical, simple, dustless, zero-waste, green, eco-friendly, natural, safe, no VOC's, non-toxic... kind of way.

Naturally finished concrete floors are our favorite look, and totally differs from project to project - every piece of concrete is original in it's coloring, textures, irregularities, and variations that occur naturally when the concrete dries and cures. We provide a simple, eco-friendly, inexpensive solution to finish any existing or brand new concrete floor in your home or business.  No concrete floor is complete without the application of a sealer and/or wax.  Punch up your concrete surface even further, by applying a staining agent or adding a color to the surface. Taking the time to put down this final layer of protection not only prolongs the life of your concrete floor, but also greatly enhances and preserves its natural beauty and appearance.  

 This is a commercial floor that used to have tile on the surface.  

Here is a recent commercial concrete floor that we refinished for our Kelowna client. This floor had tile on previously.  Once the tile was stripped and the concrete was cleaned up, this was the final product after our process was complete.  We love the extra variations that this floor has compared to a brand spanking new floor.  It already looks industrial and has lots of natural patinas and mottling mixed throughout the surface.

Usually this process only takes 2-3 days, depending on the size of your project.  

If you want your concrete surface stained or colored by an artisan, this timeline will increase a bit. 

Think of a concrete floor sealer as a protective layer that will improve its appearance, durability and longevity. New concrete floors should be sealed after they are completed, while existing concrete floors should be sealed every few years based on wear/tear and clients preferences.  Properly sealed and maintained concrete (natural or stained) will give the same beautiful appearance for years to come. It is extremely durable, requires very little maintenance, and will likely outlast the home or business which surrounds it. The materials used to seal stained concrete include water-based sealers, waxes, alternative green sealers and solvent based sealers. Always make sure that the concrete contractor preforms tests on small areas, or shows you samples of what to expect. 

MODE CONCRETE specializes in concrete floors, concrete floor finishing and concrete maintenance/repair.  We always stay on budget and on schedule!  Contact us for more details on our services or prices.

Stamped Concrete Maintenance, Repair and Sealing - blog by concrete experts MODE CONCRETE, in Kelowna BC

This is the time of year to go outside and check how your concrete is looking before the freeze/thaw temperatures get too extreme.  We specialize in concrete staining, stamped concrete, exposed aggregate concrete, cement driveways, patios, sidewalks, swimming pool decks.

Here is stamped concrete, that we resealed for this client.  Check out those views?!?!  

This is why all the local's love to call the Okanagan 'home.'

Here is some stamped concrete, that we resealed and maintained for our Kelowna client.  

This is the perfect time to maintain your concrete... before winter sets in.

Exterior Concrete Repair and Maintenance Tips

• To extend the life of concrete, you’ll want to keep it well-maintained. After your concrete is poured and cured, applying concrete sealer to the surface is the final step (sealing usually done 1 or 2 months after pouring). Concrete sealer cost is not cheap but this final stage will vastly improve the durability of the driveway. Expect to pay $0.50 to $0.85 per square foot for one application or coating of sealer (which usually includes the cost of pressure washing the surface).  Anti slip additives or repairing chips and cracks can increase this cost a little. 
• Sealers will keep your concrete protected from moisture by creating a barrier between the environment and the concrete. Without a protective sealer, moisture will penetrate the cracks and freeze in very cold weather, which will eventually deteriorate the concrete and increase the size of any cracks or chips.
• Not all concrete sealers are alike (even those in the same product category), and no sealer will last forever. Depending on the type of products used and exposure conditions, a sealer should last anywhere from 1 to 3 years. 
• If you have a sealer buildup on the surface from multiple sealer applications over the years, stripping the sealers may be required periodically.  We would recommend stripping your concrete if your sealer is flaking in spots, holes are developing, you have a cloudy appearance throughout the sealer, there are dull spots, blistering or bubbles.  The best way to assess any of these symptoms, is to call a concrete sealing professional in your area to come check out the situation in person. Stripping sealers is a messy process and can either be done chemically or mechanically.  
• Be careful with ice-melting salts as this may create a chemical reaction and eat away at your sealers and stains.  Read the labels of any products you use, or reapply sealers every year if you are using melting salts regularly.  
• Concrete naturally shifts, moves and cracks with environmental changes, the temperature and with age. Easily repaired, patched, or filled, these cracks are usually only cosmetic and not structural or unsafe (but every project is different). An experienced concrete contractor should easily be able to assess your project, give you options, show you samples and work with you to achieve the results you desire.  A concrete professional can help talk you through all the options available to you depending on the state of the concrete and your budget.

When you hire Mode Concrete, you hire a professional contractor that always stays on budget and on schedule! From the moment you hire Mode Concrete, you'll notice why our clients give us amazing referrals and recommendations.  

MODE CONCRETE specializes in high quality concrete design, fabrication, finishing, repair, maintenance and luxury outdoor living spaces. Contact us today for a free design consultation and written estimate (for Kelowna area clients)!

• References:
• Concrete Driveways: Poring Over the Pros and Cons - Houzzhttp://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/2459366/list/Concrete-Driveways--Poring-Over-the-Pros-and-Cons
• 2012 Concrete Driveway Cost Guide for Repair or Replacement - Driveway Guidehttp://www.drivewayguide.com/guides/cost-of-concrete-driveway-repairs-and-replacement/
• Pros and Cons of a Concrete Driveway - About.com http://garages.about.com/od/buildingagarage/a/Pros-And-Cons-Of-A-Concrete-Driveway.html

Rich Patinaed Antique Brown Stained Concrete Patio Balcony - created by concrete artisans in Kelowna BC, MODE CONCRETE

Concrete stains can be applied to any horizontal or vertical concrete surface. It's a great way to punch up brand new or boring old concrete, camouflage and disguise cracks or repairs, and a wonderful way to add a designer touch. With concrete we embrace and look forward to variations, irregularities, and the patina that develops with wear over time. Adding a stain can further add a depth and character to your concrete surface and camouflage any naturally occurring imperfections. Here we created a rich patinaed, antiqued brown concrete balcony for our Kelowna client.  

There are good reasons why interior designers often choose concrete for their most cutting edge spaces. Stained, colored, textured or smooth, concrete boasts limitless design options. It provides a blank canvas upon which homeowners can leave their mark.  But beyond the design advantages, these surfaces are low maintenance and they blend seamlessly with the architectural aesthetics of various design styles.

We have many great dyes and pigment options available.  Concrete staining and sealing is great for driveways, patios, concrete floors (garage, basement), concrete slabs or any concrete surface. MODE CONCRETE provides all the services we discuss in this blog.  If you'd like anymore information please contact us.  We service Kelowna & area, in BC Canada.

DIY concrete staining advice: Concrete art is only as good as the artisan completing the project.  DIY'ers contact us all the time... but without proper technique, product exposure and the experience, results could vary greatly in this regard.  We always advise doing test areas to see how the concrete reacts before treating large surfaces.  Due to the high level of unpredictability that concrete naturally exhibits, concrete staining is a tricky project even for the most ambitious DIY'er.  Each concrete surface will stain uniquely according to variations in surface density, texture, porosity, and composition.

If you plan to hire professionals:  You usually get what you pay for, and getting the best deal or accepting the cheapest estimate, will probably not get you the best results or greatest longevity of the product. The difference in cost could be quality of materials, quality of workmanship, level of experience and could dictate your general level of satisfaction for years to come.

CONTACT us today for any of the services we discuss in this blog. 

How often should you seal your driveway? Concrete Driveway Sealing, Yearly Maintenance and Repair - article by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC

Applying concrete sealers are an essential part of finishing any concrete outdoors. Protect your concrete driveway and patio from weather, staining, oil/gas, salt, and water by making sure you have a surface barrier on your concrete.

Here is a picture of a concrete driveway we recently repaired and sealed in Kelowna BC.  

How often should you seal your driveway?

• Everyone has something different to say about how often to seal your driveway. Some say every 3-5 years, whereas others say every year. The determining factor here should be what sort of weather or climate zone your concrete is exposed to. Environmental factors, rain, snow, freeze/thaw zones, or high sunshine areas should be taken into consideration. If your driveway is exposed to freeze/thaw zones and lots of sunshine or heat (like the weather here in the Okanagan) your driveway might require re-sealing and maintenance every other year. If you salt your driveway or notice your sealer is deteriorating, you might have to reseal yearly.  If you ever notice cracks or chips, you should fix these problems immediately.  If damaged concrete is left unrepaired, water can seep into the cracks this will quickly deteriorate the concrete.  
• Properly maintaining your concrete saves money in the long run. Make sure you have a protective barrier on your concrete to get the maximum longevity of your investment.

Here is a picture of a concrete driveway we recently repaired and sealed in Kelowna BC.  

 

Concrete services we offer for driveways, patios or concrete slabs:

• Concrete cleaning 
• High power pressure washing
• Concrete maintenance
• Concrete sealing (for stained concrete, aggregate concrete, or stamped)
• Concrete patching
• Concrete chip and crack repair
• Adding anti-slip surface finishes onto concrete
• Acid staining, eco-based water staining

We always offer expert concrete advice, superior workmanship and never cheap out on the products we use.  We only use the highest quality materials to repair, maintain or seal your concrete.  Whether your concrete is brand new, needs maintenance, or needs some repair... we are here to help.  We walk you through the entire process and continuously get client referrals. People all over the Okanagan put their trust in Mode Concrete to get the job done right, with long term results.  We always offer free written estimates to our inquiring clients.  We only use the best skill and best products available on the market.

CONTACT us today for any of the services we discuss in this blog.

Contemporary Polished Concrete Floors - naturally treated and buffed by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC

Our contemporary polished concrete floors are the perfect option for any indoor or outdoor space. Polished concrete is often used in many areas like: art galleries, shopping malls, warehouses, retail environments as well many residential or industrial properties.  Basically we finish and buff the floor to give it a stunning finish. Our entire process is VOC (Volatile organic compounds) and emission free, an entirely non-toxic and safe process.

We can help you with maintenance, refinishing and rewaxing your existing concrete floor. When we finish your floor it will come to life... in a non-toxic, eco-friendly, inexpensive kinda way. We can help to restore and bring out the natural raw color of your concrete floor, original patinas and mottled beauty marks. We love concrete for this very reason. This floor was a raw, natural, basement concrete floor, untreated contractors concrete. We prepared and cleaned the concrete, and completed our finishing process to create this look.  We dig it... do you?

Client feedback about this polished concrete floor: We used Gareth to seal and polish our concrete floor and it turned to be a fantastic looking and economical alternative verse other floor finishes. Highly recommended. Regards, Gavin B. Sparg

Concrete Floor Maintenance, Care and Cleaning: Concrete is fairly simple to take care of. You can dry or wet mop (use warm water when mopping), sweep, or vacuum to remove small debris on a weekly basis. Use PH-neutral, non-acidic natural cleaners to ensure nothing strips the sealers and waxes.  Then once every few years you will have to apply a moisture barrier sealer and waxes.  Maintenance and refinishing, totally depends on wear and tear and the client's preference.  Some customers like a pristine highly reflective concrete floors, while others like an industrial, high patina, raw surface look.

Contact us for a free no obligation written estimate. Mode Concrete is highly knowledgeable and can discuss your requirements and advise the best option that suits your needs.

Contemporary, Modern Polished Concrete Floor Screams Style - by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna, BC

Concrete shakes off its cold reputation by combining brilliant innovations, cutting edge applications and new techniques.  Concrete works perfectly in residential, commercial, industrial, indoor, or outdoor applications.  So totally versatile.  

Concrete floors work in any room of the house, not just in the basement.  More and more clients are opting for concrete.  Concrete lovers want their space to scream style in a subtle, understated, elegant sort-of-way. And if you’re worried about it looking too industrial, you can easily soften it with punches of color, rugs, textiles and by mixing in warmer materials like wood planks. 

Here is a recent commercial concrete floor that we refinished for the Kelowna client.  This floor had tile on previously.  Once the tile was stripped and the concrete was cleaned up, this was the final product after our process was complete.  We love the extra variations that this floor has compared to a brand spanking new floor.  It already looks industrial and has lots of natural patinas and mottling mixed throughout the surface. 

If you want ultra-modern style and major design impact, consider concrete floors - the flooring for the stylish at heart.  Concrete floors give a super-modern look, industrial look - and like freckles, concrete floors help to camouflage wear as it gets older.  With concrete we embrace and look forward to variations, irregularities, and the patina that develops with wear over time.

Concrete Flooring Benefits:

• STYLISH - Undeniably gorgeous, original, one of kind and a piece of art. 
• LONGEVITY - Excellent longevity of investment when compared to other materials available on the market.  If done right, concrete will outlive you.
• ENERGY EFFICIENCY - Concrete floors can help you save energy. They feel cooler in the summer, so there is less of a need to use air conditioning. During the winter, concrete floors absorb the heat from the sun, helping to keep your home warm. For those with radiant-heated floors, concrete is the best flooring surface to maximize heat conduction and minimize energy usage. Some worry that a concrete floor will be cold and hard on their feet. The truth is that finished concrete floors are no colder or hard-feeling as other common flooring types like ceramic tiles, stone and marble.
• SUSTAINABILITY - Using concrete floors helps to minimize waste, unlike other types of flooring, such as carpet, which creates waste from padding and carpet scraps. Also, concrete does not contain the harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) that many synthetic carpets do.
• NON-SLIP SURFACE - Especially with an added glossy finish, you would think concrete floors would be slippery. But the truth is that as long as your floor is installed by a professional, it should not be slippery. Standard practice and appropriate top coats, ensure that a non-slip additive is applied to the final finish of the floor.
• DURABILITY - If they are properly installed and maintained, concrete floors rarely need replacement and there is virtually no maintenance with concrete floors.  
• LOW MAINTENANCE - Maintenance is simple. Just vacuum or sweep and follow up with a damp mop. The amount of traffic your floors receive will determine the amount of maintenance it will need. A concrete floor with normal traffic will probably need a reapplication of the finish every 2-3 years. Keep in mind that concrete is the most abrasive-resistant and durable floor. 
• COST - Some considerations; size of job, detail (is it a basic application of stain or dye or more detailed design), preparation requirements, time frame, products and materials used (hardware store brand or professional grade) and finally, the experience level of the installer (a more experienced professional concrete artist/craftsman will charge more).

Contact MODE CONCRETE for more details about any services we discuss in our blog.  Did you know we only operate of referrals and recommendations?  We make sure our past clients are always happy, research it... we dare you.

Contemporary Board Form Concrete Tiles - Plank form tiles are perfect for walls, floors, vertical or horizontal surfaces made by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC

Plank Form Concrete Tiles

When merging the raw elements of concrete with wood, you get a striking balance between natural and man-made products. 

Board-formed concrete is poured into forms and left to cure, leaving the wood grain behind and allowing the concrete to have some seepage between the planks.  After everything is stripped, the natural wood grain is left imprinted into the concrete after the forms are removed and highlighted by the application of sealers and specialized finishing treatments which bring out the texturing of the wood and the natural colors in the concrete.  

Modern large format tiles easily create a dynamic, contemporary statement.  Our high quality, high performance concrete is our trademark creation of local and eco-friendly materials.  All of our concrete products are artistically and mindfully created.  We magically combine our love for natural raw concrete, with strong lines and architectural appeal, then add some strong Canadian pride and an even stronger environmental focus.  And tada... that is what our company and our products are all about.  

These tiles above are long thin concrete tiles that were custom made and then hand stained numerous times, sealed and then applied to the wall (similar to tile installation).  In this application, we staggered the joints and created a back-splash in the kitchen.  These would also be great applied in the bathroom or on a fire-place feature wall, interior or exterior, virtually anywhere you can apply tile.  Our concrete products are waterproof, durable, custom made and one-of-a-kind artisan created!

The quality of our products are extraordinary, have incredible longevity and are too stunning for words.  MODE CONCRETE offers luxury, high-end large-format concrete tiles.  All of our original, hand-cast concrete products are individually created, designed and fabricated in Kelowna BC, Canada.  Stained, colored and finished to your preference - many options available to achieve the 'look' you are going for. Since all of our concrete products are custom and made to order, everything is made by hand to fit your project perfectly.

Where to install concrete large format tiles?  
They are perfect for firepalces, bathrooms, on the wall or used as cladding tiles.  Our light weight, fibre reinforced, large-format concrete tiles are perfect for... walls, floors, indoor, outdoor, wet, dry, vertical, horizontal and overhead applications.  Totally endless options.

How to install our concrete large format tiles?  
If you are located near Kelowna, we can help with installation.  Any experienced tile setter can easily install the concrete tiles.

• Recommended tools and tips for installation - 
• 36" wet saw used for tile cutting
• 5" grinder + diamond blade
• grinder that smooths the edges down
• small sanding stone or sand paper to smooth down any rough areas 
• tile adhesive depends on surface you are adhering too - use same techniques and products that you'd use for natural stone tile installations
• concrete tiles chip and have similar properties to other tiles and natural stones that are often used 

Our concrete tiles have a special blend of ingredients that makes the concrete lighter weight than natural stone or other tile options.  The high tech products we use in our concrete gives it extra strength.  Our tiles are durable, are easily cut and even easier to install.

MODE CONCRETE provides all the services we discuss in this blog.  If you'd like anymore information please contact us.  We service Kelowna & area, in BC Canada and ship products worldwide.

Concrete Driveway Pros and Cons - by Mode Concrete in Kelowna BC

Concrete has been a popular choice for driveways and architecture throughout history, for excellent reason. Concrete is durable, requires little maintenance, gives great longevity and is easily repaired. Not only do concrete driveways provide great curb appeal, a properly installed concrete driveway can last 20 years longer than other materials, with minimal maintenance or repair costs.

Concrete Driveway Basics

• Cost: Concrete is more expensive than gravel and asphalt driveways, but is less expensive than pavers or natural stone (like brick or cobblestone).  On average, $5 to $10 per square foot, depending on site conditions and preparation.  Extras that can be added on; various finishes, colored concrete, staining, sealing, pattern cutting, seams. 
• Durability: 25-50 years or longer with proper care and installation.
• Maintenance: Sweeping and pressure washing when needed. Chemicals may be needed to remove stains, oil or tire marks. Sealing is usually required every few years. 
• Additional options: Driveways may be stained different colors, personalized or poured into any pattern you desire.  Do you want a fancy exposed concrete surface, a stamped concrete surface, or budget-friendly broom finished?  Circles, squares, cut lines, seaming and tiles, planters, retaining walls, or any customization can be designed to compliment the design and functionality of your driveway.  

Concrete Driveway Pros

• Durable.
• Requires little maintenance.
• Gives great longevity and has a longer life than other driveway options.
• Concrete is easily repaired.
• Looks amazing.
• Unlimited color options.
• Snow removal is easy on concrete.
• Anti slip additives can be added onto surfaces.

Concrete Driveway Cons

• Initial cost is more than other options, but your get more longevity out of your investment.
• Requires yearly maintenance, in most climates.  
• As you consider concrete driveways costs, factor in the cost of sealing it every 1-3 years.

Concrete Driveway Repair and Maintenance 

• To extend the life of concrete, you’ll want to keep it well-maintained. The first thing to do is to have it sealed after your concrete driveway is poured, usually within the first month or two after it is fully cured. Concrete sealer cost is not cheap but this final stage will vastly improve the durability of the driveway. Expect to pay $0.50 to $0.85 per square foot for one application or coating of sealer (which usually includes the cost of pressure washing the surface).  Anti slip additives or repairing chips and cracks can increase this cost a little. 
• Sealers will keep your concrete protected from moisture and protect any tiny cracks. Without a protective sealer, moisture will penetrate the cracks and freeze in very cold weather which may increase the size of any cracks or chips.
• You may want to seal your driveway annually if your driveway is exposed to lots of moisture or freeze and thaw conditions to maintain the protective barrier of sealer between the elements and your concrete surface.  
• Not all driveway sealers are alike (even those in the same product category), and no driveway sealer will last forever. Depending on the type of products used and exposure conditions, a sealer should last anywhere from 1 to 3 years. 
• If you have a sealer buildup on the surface from multiple sealer applications over the years, stripping the sealers may be required periodically.  We would recommend stripping your concrete if your sealer is flaking in spots, holes are developing, you have a cloudy appearance throughout the sealer, there are dull spots, blistering or bubbles.  The best way to assess any of these symptoms, is to call a concrete sealing professional in your area to come check out the situation in person.  Stripping sealers is a messy process and can either be done chemically or mechanically.  
• Be careful with concrete driveway salt, this may create a chemical reaction and eat away at your sealers and stains.  Read the labels of any products you use, or reapply sealers every year if you are using driveway salt regularly.  
• Concrete naturally shifts, moves and cracks with environmental changes and with age. Easily repaired, patched, or filled, these cracks are usually only cosmetic and not structural or unsafe (but every project is different). An experienced concrete contractor should easily be able to assess your project, give you options, show you samples and work with you to achieve the results you desire.  A concrete professional can help talk you through all the options available to you depending on the state of the concrete and your budget.

When you hire Mode Concrete, you hire a professional contractor that always stays on budget and on schedule!  From the moment you hire Mode Concrete, you'll notice why our clients give us amazing referrals and recommendations, every time.  Contact us today for more information about our services. 

References:

• Concrete Driveways: Poring Over the Pros and Cons - Houzz http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/2459366/list/Concrete-Driveways--Poring-Over-the-Pros-and-Cons
• 2012 Concrete Driveway Cost Guide for Repair or Replacement - Driveway Guide http://www.drivewayguide.com/guides/cost-of-concrete-driveway-repairs-and-replacement/
• Pros and Cons of a Concrete Driveway - About.com http://garages.about.com/od/buildingagarage/a/Pros-And-Cons-Of-A-Concrete-Driveway.htm

Modern Contemporary Concrete Kitchen with Waterfall Countertop - made in Kelowna BC Canada, by MODE CONCRETE

Ultra Cool and Modern Concrete Kitchen Countertops - made locally in the Okanagan by Mode Concrete

Mode Concrete loves to use bold colors to punctuate raw concrete.  We thought this bright oriental orange would be a lovely contrast against the grey bare concrete. Color blocking is a great way to punch up architectural angles or just add some personality to raw concrete elements.  We also overextended the surface of the countertop, added a waterfall edge and voila... we were able to create this breakfast bar and make some extra livable space in this kitchen.  

This modern, double farm-style, apron concrete sink is massive in size and has a built-in draining board.  Rustic, durable, modern and superb functionality.  All of our concrete is top quality and built to last for years!  

We also created the concrete backsplash out of long thin concrete tiles.  We hand stained and painted these long tiles and then applied to wall (application is similar to tile). We wanted to combine the elements of both concrete and wood, and imprinted the long concrete tiles with wood grain.  The concrete surface that goes from the countertop up to the cupboards is incredibly durable, waterproof and all of our treated concrete surfaces are easy to keep clean and germ free.

Waterfall counters (also known as risers) have been THE trend in kitchens all over the world lately, both for their stylistic appeal and long-term durability when compared to other materials. When extended to the floor this countertop instantly looks more modern, clean and high-end.  We love the look of this waterfall edge and created a plank form looking waterfall edge to match the backsplash and countertop elements.  

MODE CONCRETE specializes in creating custom concrete countertops and we can customize the concrete in a multitude of ways, to perfectly fit within your space.  As for cleaning and maintaining, like most countertops, a mild soap and a cloth are all that should be used for routine cleanup. Be sure to avoid harsh cleansers or anything abrasive.

We also can assist you refinishing or maintaining your existing concrete countertop, concrete floors and any decorative concrete surface.  Contact us today for more details on our services. 

Nothing Beats Positive Feedback! A past clients blogs about her outdoor kitchen, built and managed by Mode Concrete in Kelowna BC.

A past clients blogs about her outdoor kitchen, built and managed by Mode Concrete in Kelowna BC. Nothing beats positive feedback and great reviews, so we were ecstatic to see how she felt about the entire process when dealing with us.  She purchased an outdoor kitchen from Mode Concrete, and we impressed her by sticking to the time line and on budget.  We referred her to any other necessary trades, scheduled them accordingly and walked her through the entire process. Now onto the good stuff... here is what she had to say about us (also check out her amazing food blog for delish recipes at Olive Oil and Lemons or go directly to http://oliveoilandlemons.com/roasted-corn-with-ancho-chili-butter-in-an-outdoor-kitchen/).

"Ever since we bought our rooftop abode in Kelowna a couple of years ago we have been talking about having an outdoor kitchen installed on the north side of the patio. I like to cook and thought it would be nice to have an additional kitchen outdoors that would be handy for entertaining, perhaps informal cooking classes for friends, food photography or just for us to have fun with it.

Finally this summer we got around to making inquiries and found Gareth from Mode Concrete (http://www.modeconcrete.com/) who owns and operates this leading company in the Okanagan designing and installing outdoor kitchens among other things concrete. Gareth came over to look at the space, discuss the equipment we needed for our style of cooking and consider the overall design. Gareth and I hit it off immediately and had fun thinking this project through together. I told him about my blog so he knew I liked to cook and needed a good design and high quality appliances. A couple of days later he emailed me drawings of the proposed design. He proposed a 12 foot long kitchen with a fridge, a grill, two gas burners and a sink. The counter space allowed for two work areas, one between the burners and  the sink and one next to the grill. The design allowed for storage below the grill and the sink as well as a few drawers for storing smaller items. We discussed the choices for the front and sides of the cabinetry and settled on river rock, to match the river rock along a couple of other areas on the patio. This was to be the first river rock kitchen for Mode Concrete and Gareth seemed just as excited about it as I was. For the countertop we chose a black slate tile that nicely offset the grey tones of the river rock and the silvery stainless steel of the appliances. Gareth was fun to work with and made good suggestions about the placement of the appliances to allow for more work and storage space in the outdoor kitchen. Then we discussed the appliances. Mode concrete offers a selection of high end outdoor appliances and on their recommendation we chose the Luxor line. Luxor is a US manufacturer of high end stainless steel products using high grade steel that is necessary in this cold climate where the appliances have to withstand low temperatures during the winter (now that I have cooked with it I can say it is a fabulous product).

Once we settled on the design, appliances, finishings and price we signed a contract and Mode Concrete provided us with a time-line for completing the project. Gareth promised to have the kitchen fully installed within two weeks and I must admit that in my mind I thought yes… sure… Amazingly enough, he was right on target and within two weeks I had the kitchen fully installed and functioning. As he told me from the beginning, they were on time and on budget. Mode concrete managed the entire project, including ordering the appliances, hiring and supervising trades, installing the frame and appliances and even did a demo on how to use the appliances when the kitchen was ready. I was impressed, and hence this endorsement in this post (nothing to disclose, it was a straight forward business deal)."

We love the review and the final look of her outdoor kitchen. I'm sure this client will be making some delicious masterpieces in this outdoor kitchen!!  If you click the link to Olive Oil and Lemons, you can also see a delicious corn recipe that she cooked on her brand new Luxor grill. Below is a picture she sent to us, we love the final look and the final touches!

Please contact us for more details on any services we discuss in this blog or to talk to Gareth directly about your upcoming project.