Considering Modern Concrete Floors? Here are some top questions we get from inquiring minds about concrete floors and overlays

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. 

This is an example to show the thickness of our concrete floors, they are totally perfect for any floor in your home!

Here are some top questions we often get asked by inquiring minds from all over the world, about our concrete floors and overlays:

• Thickness is usually between 3/8" to 1/2" thick and similar weight to tile or natural stone.
• It can be applied indoors or outdoors to any level or story of the structure (with proper preparation).
• This is a great option for open concept living or indoor/outdoor living by easily creating a cohesive look and surface.
• Our concrete floors are available in standard grey or white, which are easily customized by staining (acid stain or water based non-toxic stain).
• Price........ well, 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.
• Try before you buy!!  All contractors should provide you with a sample or test area, since all concrete reacts differently this is a great way to make sure you like it before you buy it.
• For people wondering if concrete floors can be done on wood subfloors and substrates...  well yes you can!  After preparing the surface, we can pour a thin layer of new concrete to any 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.  Designers love this aspect of concrete since it adds tremendous character to the floor.
• With adequate sealers and waxes, your floor will have a barrier protecting your concrete.  Proper concrete sealing/waxing every few years will maintain your floor and renew that wonderful brand-new sheen or reflective quality to your concrete floor.  We always finish our concrete products with natural, eco-friendly products, that aren't harmful or toxic to people or the environment.

Concrete benefits include durability, flexibility of design options, incredible longevity, easy maintenance, cost and best of all it embraces age by developing a one-of-kind patina that is totally unique. Concrete is a natural material, and regardless how your concrete floor is finished, the natural patina is what makes concrete so ultra-chic.

If you have any questions or would like an estimate, please get in touch with us.

Concrete Floors Naturally Look Amazing and Modern - Simple, Environmentally Conscience Process is Non-toxic and Produces Zero Waste

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.  

Concrete's natural color is always 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.  Contractors grade pavement looks absolutely glorious with minimal effort or expense - and the best thing about finishing your existing concrete floors... usually most projects (like this basement floor pictured below) only take 2 days. 

Think of a concrete floor sealer as a protective 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. Pets may also cause damage to a concrete floors that can be prevented with sealant and wax. New concrete floors should be sealed after they completed, while existing concrete floors should be sealed every few years based on wear and tear.  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. 

This client wanted us to work with their brand new existing concrete basement floor (regular contractors concrete).  Gareth (owner of Mode Concrete) went in and cleaned the surface, sealed and waxed the surface (numerous applications of both are applied).  Usually this process only takes 2 days.  MODE CONCRETE specializes in concrete floors, concrete floor finishing and concrete maintenance/repair.  Contact us for more details on our services or prices.

Featuring a Modern, Contemporary Home by Sunterra Custom Homes - located on Okanagan Lake in BC

Check out this modern, high-end home built by Sunterra Custom Homes, located in Vernon BC. MODE CONCRETE helped by creating the concrete elements in this home. Kudos on the design and style, we love the final look!!

Check out Sunterra Custom Homes portfolio, on Houzz - click this link to see the entire photo album of this home!

Modern and Super Cool Black Concrete Floor on Wood Subfloor with Black Stained Concrete Fireplace Tiles, made by artisans in Kelowna BC Canada by MODE CONCRETE

This style stunner is located on Okanagan Lake.  MODE CONCRETE created the black stained concrete floor overlay, on the main floor of this residence (on a wooden substrate). With proper prep, all surfaces can be topped with a concrete floor similar to this and are made of a light weight concrete so no extra structural supports are required for your project.  The picture below is wonderful, because you can actually see how thin the concrete floor is.

We also created the modern black stained concrete fireplace surround. This look is achieved by creating large format hand cast concrete tiles, made from a light weight material. The tiles can be natural, stained or customized in any way, by our master artisan Gareth Tyrrell. No extra supports need to be installed, since this concrete is light weight and is a similar weight to tile.  Concrete tiles are great for refacing older dated fireplace surrounds, or applying straight onto drywall.

A vibrant or bold colored concrete floor or fireplace surround (like the black stain we used here) is easy to achieve, and can usually be created with water based eco-stains (safe for indoor projects) or traditional acid staining.  Concrete acts as a blank canvas and any color or finish can be applied. Our master concrete artisan and company owner, Gareth Tyrrell works on every job, from beginning to end, ensuring top quality results and ecstatic clients every time - we guarantee it!

Concrete floors are perfect for maximizing your indoor/outdoor living and creating a consistent flow throughout your space. Perfect for the Okanagan, when the sunshine starts to shine!  Contact us today for more details.

Modern, Natural, Eco-Friendly Basement Concrete Floors - an inexpensive, viable flooring solution that continues to grow in popularity

Concrete floors easily create a design element, next to bright white walls and a rustic barn door. The rich wood barn door against the cool concrete floor, easily puts some personality in this space.  

This client wanted us to work with their brand new existing concrete basement floor (regular contractors concrete).  Gareth (owner of Mode Concrete) went in and cleaned the surface, sealed and waxed the surface (numerous applications of both are applied).  Usually this process only takes 2 days.

Top Reasons People Love Concrete Floors - 

• eco-friendly and natural
• they age beautifully, embrace wear and people often compare concrete floors to leather 
• beautiful aesthetics
• easily creates major design element in any space
• super durable
• easy maintenance and super easy to repair if necessary
• easily customized
• they get better with age, gain character throughout it's life and embraces irregularities as 'beauty marks' making your floor an ever evolving work of art that is totally original to it's life, it's environment and what it's exposed to
• long term savings costs
• great longevity of product with the ability to refinish or recover floor
• health benefits and good for people with allergies or asthma
• minimal installation price when compared to other flooring alternatives
• untrimmed animal claws,  sexy stilletos, or stompy flamenco dancing with high heels could definitely leave marks on your floor, but if your concrete is properly maintained these should only be surface scratches - waxes, sealers and stains will protect the actual integrity of the concrete or surface
• easy to keep surface clean and germ free

Style, style, style, to die for style - it's the number one reason people love concrete floors.  Concrete creates a major design element and has major architectural appeal.  

If you live in the Okanagan please contact MODE CONCRETE for more details on our services.  We are available to travel worldwide, depending on project scope and size.

Luxury Outdoor Kitchen Specialists - located in Kelowna BC Canada

MODE CONCRETE deals with DIY'ers, design professionals, building professionals and home-owners, to create luxury outdoor kitchens in the Okanagan Valley.  Having a luxurious outdoor kitchen has become the norm for people living in the Okanagan. Many designers, landscape architects and developers rely on our input and skill when it comes to the design and construction of an outdoor kitchen or grilling island.

We will start by assessing your equipment requirements, available space, budget, and how we can integrate an outdoor kitchen into your overall design.  We have knowledge about the “do's and don'ts” of outdoor kitchen design and can advise you on different outdoor equipment options and various construction materials available.

You can choose to have us build the complete outdoor kitchen or we can just build a outdoor kitchen frame, which you can finish with your own construction materials. You can have confidence that MODE CONCRETE has created all openings, cutouts, and clearances accurately, for your outdoor kitchen accessories and grills.  Our outdoor kitchen frames have amazing structural durability and are designed specifically for each individual project.

Steps for creating the luxury outdoor kitchen of your dreams:

• set up a consultation with MODE CONCRETE
• get ready any sketches, pictures, or ideas you have
• make a wish list of the features you would like to see in your outdoor kitchen and living space
• view our website and our suppliers lines for more ideas (we can also discuss the product line, and the pro's/con's with you at the consultation and give you flyers/pamplets) 
• after we have dimensions of the space, an idea of what you are looking for, and any specific requests (favorite outdoor grill, must haves) we call in the design experts and start putting together some ideas for you
• you then approve your custom outdoor kitchen design
• you select the finishing touches (countertops, exterior)
• if required, MODE CONCRETE will now begin building your outdoor kitchen
• if required, necessary arrangements for gas, electrical and plumbing may need to be made at this stage
• if required, we install the equipment, accessories and make sure everything is working perfectly

Here is video featuring a Luxor Grill, one of the high quality specialty items that MODE CONCRETE offers it's clients.  How awesome would this would make your backyard days?!?!?!

Grab some wine from your cellar, and get the invites ready - you are the proud new owner of custom built outdoor kitchen by MODE CONCRETE!

Concrete Floors Easily create Design Element, next to these Modern Stairs with Glass Panel Railing

Concrete floors easily create a design element, next to this modern staircase with glass panel railing. The warm wood against the cool concrete, packs a punch and contrasts beautifully.  

This client wanted us to work with their brand new existing concrete basement floor (regular contractors concrete).  Gareth (owner of Mode Concrete) went in and cleaned the surface, sealed and waxed the surface (numerous applications of both are applied).  Usually this process only takes 2 days.

Concrete Floors - weighing them against the options:

• eco-friendly and super cool
• most of our clients go with concrete floors, because they love the look of concrete
• natural stone is a great comparison, and very similar to the properties of concrete (weight, temperature, hardness)
• we'd say 70% of our customers want some level of customization on their concrete floor (staining, seams, stenciling, logos) and see their concrete as a blank canvas, while others embrace standard grey natural concrete for all it's beauty
• concrete floors are not a fad - they fit into many design schemes and will easily transition with your tastes and furnishings
• the most common concern is inevitable concrete cracking throughout your concrete floor - while some people love and look forward to the cracking and find this aspect appealing about concrete floors giving them the natural aged look just like real stone
• slippery concrete floors are curbed by applying barriers on the surface, like sealers, waxes or slip resistant additives

There aren't many flooring options that have this many benefits - design, colors, personalizations make your floor your own personal blank canvas.  A gorgeous, long-lasting surface that is gaining more and more popularity all the time.  

MODE CONCRETE is an artisan concrete design firm that specializes in a variety of concrete floor services, owner and president Gareth Tyrrell always works directly with clients and on the project.  Contact us for more details.

EVO Flattop Grill - Truly the Perfect Outdoor Entertaining Grill - available through MODE CONCRETE, from Kelowna BC Canada

Evo social cooking™ appliances are found in homes of foodie consumers who enjoy healthy cooking with family and friends, and used by more professional chefs entertaining more people than any other cooking appliance to connect dining audiences to a fresh-prepared food experience. Made in America, Evo circular cooktops are recognized for delivering the natural flavors of food, cooking versatility, distinct design, quality construction, and above all else, creating a social space around fresh-prepared food.

With the wonderful aroma and visuals of fresh prepared food, the Evo Flattop offers a sensational way to cook and entertain outdoors. Evo invites participation and conversation as much as it does creativity. This round, flattop cooking station can serve the most delicate to the most demanding foods from a single platform that heightens the culinary experience right in front of your guests.

Evo offers 7 distinct products for the home chef. These models include wheeled carts for maneuvering around the backyard deck or patio, portable tabletops for taking your grill anywhere, and a built-in cooktops for indoor and outdoor kitchens. Evo’s Indoor Elite Series features ceramic-clad steel cook surfaces and our Outdoor Classic Series comes standard with a black oil-seasoned steel cook surface popular with professional chefs.

MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC can ship one of these durable, top rated, top quality grills, directly to your door... if you are located in the Okanagan we will help you set up your grill and assemble everything.  Contact us for more details about ordering times, costs and available options.

All above product information and photos credits, courtesy of: EVO

Concrete Restoration, Sealing and Repair - servicing Kelowna and the Okanagan

Properly maintaining, sealing, repairing, and protecting your concrete will increase the longevity of your concrete and resale value of your home.  Many times when new or existing concrete cracks or needs a repair, our clients are discouraged because they aren't aware of the many options available.  They usually assume the worst, and think that replacing the concrete is the best option.  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.

MODE CONCRETE specializes in high end decorative concrete applications, concrete sealing, concrete restoration and concrete crack repairs.  We have been trusted by many people in the Okanagan for their custom concrete needs over the years.  We only use high quality products and whether you have a concrete repair, or you want your aged concrete refinished and rejuvenated, MODE CONCRETE can help.  

For this client (pictured above), we were asked to come in and repair all the cracks in this architectural wall, of this modern custom home in the Okanagan.  We were able to color match the concrete perfectly, and fill all the cracks and chips.  We then applied a matte sealer on the walls, to make sure there was a protective barrier on the concrete before the homeowners moved in.

We service the Okanagan and always make sure our customers love us, and refer us to their friends.  If  you want to hire the best quality concrete contractor, contact MODE CONCRETE, for a new level of service and customer satisfaction.

Basement Concrete Floors Naturally Look Modern and Amazing - Quick Process with Concrete Sealers and Wax - MODE CONCRETE services the Okanagan Valley in BC

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.  Since all concrete has its own unique color, ‘beauty marks,’ and personality – two floors will never be identical, but that’s the cool thing about concrete.  When wax is applied to your concrete, it comes alive and you will notice a beautiful sheen and uniform luster or reflective quality.  

And the best thing about finishing your existing concrete floors... usually most projects (like this basement floor pictured below that we recently finished in the Okanagan) only take 2 days. 

Here is an example of a natural concrete existing basement floor, that we simply sealed and waxed.  It's an easy, cost effective flooring option that elevates the natural beauty that occurs already in concrete.  Great for people with allergies, it's an eco-friendly flooring option and it is has great longevity when compared to other flooring materials - what else could you ask for?!  It's the ideal flooring material!

We specialize in Concrete Floors, Overlays and Concrete Surface Staining/Waxing/Sealing and service the entire Okanagan Valley.  Contact us today for more information.

2013 Services and Information Commercial - MODE CONCRETE located in Kelowna BC

Also - check out our MODE CONCRETE Youtube Playlist, featuring our Services, Information and Specialty Products (all of which are hand selected for their strong design elements and high quality).

MODE CONCRETE is a design firm specializing in custom hand cast concrete, located in Kelowna BC Canada and servicing the entire Okanagan.  We specialize in concrete floors (overlays, basement finishing, sealing, waxing), concrete fireplaces, concrete furniture, concrete countertops, terrazzo concrete... and the list goes on and on.  Check out our video, our website http://www.modeconcrete.com/ or contact us directly if you have any questions about our services.

This video highlights some recent projects we've completed and services that we offer.

All images were taken by MODE CONCRETE.  Video was created by MODE CONCRETE.

Outdoor Kitchens Have Great Return on Investment

Outdoor kitchens will have a great return on your investment and make your home stand out when trying to sell. They encourage easy entertaining and create a personal oasis, increasing your personal enjoyment and adding value to your life. Who doesn't want their home to feel like a resort? Our outdoor-living season stretches from March through November, for those of us lucky enough to call the Okanagan 'home.' That means many buyers and and homeowners carefully evaluate and try to maximize their exterior spaces.  Outdoor kitchens, pizza ovens, pergolas, covered patios, outdoor fireplaces and outdoor bars are among the hottest alfresco trends right now.

Most homes have an outdoor eating area, and having an outdoor kitchen further encourages and enhances your outdoor living space.  Many of these kitchens have small cabinets with under-counter refrigerators. Some include sinks, most include a built in cooking unit of some sort (BBQ, grill, pizza oven, burners). The most luxurious items include cocktail stations and imported Italian pizza ovens.  Every outdoor kitchen needs one thing that sparkles and acts as a focal point to your kitchen - is there a 'must have' or anything that particularly stands out when you envision your outdoor kitchen?

Renovation quality is key when determining whether an outdoor addition will have a positive or negative resale effect on your space. Do-it-yourself projects can sometimes erode value, if poor materials or workmanship are used for the project. Research all your options before making any decisions and if you go with a contractor, make sure they are reputable and know what they are doing.  

And finally, the design is probably the most critical part of planning any outdoor living space.  What will maximize space, encourage easy entertaining, and not inhibit the flow of your space?  Most times it's best to get a professional designer and if you can, check out some 3D renders to really see how your space will look before you begin construction.  

MODE CONCRETE can help you with any component of your outdoor kitchen project. We offer free estimates and one free on-site consultation.  Contact us today to book your appointment.

Modern Bathroom with Black Stained Concrete Floor easily Contrasts a Rustic Wooden Vanity and White Porcelain

This home is a cutting edge design from floor to ceiling, gorgeous wood tones fill the home with light and warmth, especially since everything in the home is reflecting off the ultra chic and cool black stained concrete floor. 

Here is a stunning modern bathroom with a black concrete floor that contrasts beautifully against rustic wooden vanity and white porcelain. We created this custom black stained concrete floor, to exactly match up with samples and colors requested by the client, they had a great vision when designing this powder room.  

This contemporary bathroom design has a great balance between natural warm materials and modern elements.  If you love their style and want to recreate this look, the main elements are: a naturally beautiful rough cut wooden slab used as a vanity, a black concrete floor, architectural statement white porcelain vessel sink and toilet, and stainless elements (plumbing and tap).  

Why is concrete a great option for a bathroom or any wet area? There are a number of challenges that face a bathroom floor or wet areas on a daily basis, including water concerns, humidity changes, and staining agents which spill and splatter. With concrete, you get a floor or counter-top that is uniquely suited to your design scheme and the concrete itself is nearly indestructible, while the stains and waxes will develop a rich complex patina as it wears and is exposed to environmental factors. Even though your concrete will achieve character and marks as it ages, nothing will affect the strength of the concrete floor itself.  If you'd like to naturally finish your concrete surface but want a bit of sheen... waxes, stains and sealers make sure all damages are absorbed by making the floor a bit softer if anything should come into contact with the concrete.  Concrete is not for the perfectionist, people often say concrete is very similar to leather or vintage jeans, they get better with age.  One thing we love doing is checking out architecture in a city and noticing the concrete objects and buildings that look better than they day they were created and poured. Concrete is one of those rare materials that looks better the older it is. Concrete naturally develops character that tells a story about its life.

Concrete Floor Maintenance, Care and Cleaning: Concrete is fairly simple to take care of. You can dry or wet mop, sweep, or vacuum to remove small debris on a weekly basis. Use neutral, natural cleaners to ensure nothing strips the sealers and waxes.  Then once every one or two years you will have to apply a moisture barrier sealer and waxes.

Since concrete flooring is very hard, and an unforgiving flooring material with highly unpredictable results - make sure you hire an experience concrete contractor and see samples before deciding if concrete is for you.  Lots of options are available call your local concrete flooring expert for all the options available to you.

Concrete Stair Treads & Pods - Modern, Durable and Perfect for your Indoor or Outdoor Staircase

This is a recent project MODE CONCRETE completed. The clients already had the free floating black metal staircase in place and asked us to hand cast concrete inserts in the treads.

We are available to create a variety of concrete stair treads and pods, totally custom, unique and hand cast to your projects specifications. Contact us for more details or prices. We service the Okanagan Valley.

Considering Concrete Floors in the Kitchen, Bathroom or Anywhere in your Home? We address top questions & concerns about concrete floors

Are you considering concrete floors in your kitchen, or anywhere in your home?  Our clients absolutely love the concrete floors that we have created.  Concrete benefits include durability, flexibility of design options, incredible longevity, easy maintenance, cost and best of all it embraces age by developing a one-of-kind patina that is totally unique.

Here is a brand new modern black stain concrete overlay we applied to the entire main floor of this stunning Vernon residence.

Why do people love concrete floors?

• 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!

Concrete floors are modern, industrial 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.  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 is what makes concrete so fab and makes your floor totally unique.  We are true concrete lovers, are you?

We love the look of these floors!  MODE CONCRETE created the black acid stained concrete overlay floor, as well as the concrete countertops in this kitchen.  Concrete we love you!

Top questions about concrete floors  

• For people wondering if concrete floors can be done on wood subfloors and substrates...  well yes you can!  After preparing the surface, we can pour a thin layer of new concrete to any 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.
• We are often asked if concrete is bone chillingly cold? Concrete floors will have similar properties to natural stone or tile.  In warmer months, the daily temperature of the floor will stay as cool as tile does - perfect for where we live in the Okanagan.  
• Concrete will be hard on my joints and on my feet all day.  Concrete has similar properties and hardness to tile or natural stone, so you can expect the same level of cushioning under your feet and joints.  If this is a concern, put a throw rug (or gel mat) where you expect to stand for long periods.
• Does concrete crack and chip easily?  It acts the same as natural stone and is a very durable material, it is easily repaired if something should happen to your floor.  It is easier to repair than tile or wood, since we can patch fix and fill any damage that may occur over your floors life. With adequate sealers and waxes, your floor will have a barrier protecting your concrete.  Proper concrete sealing/waxing every few years will maintain your floor and renew that wonderful brand-new sheen or reflective quality to your concrete floor.

Here is another angle of this modern black stain concrete floor.

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

If you have any more questions about our services, or would like to make an appointment please contact us today.

How do you decide which contractor to hire?

This is such a great concern for all home and business owners.  How can you be sure you are getting what you pay for and will be happy with the end results?  Here are some tips on how to weed out the good contractors from the good salesmen.

Tips on choosing a contractor

• How do you know what their quality of work is, before hiring them? No matter how large or small project is, if you want a high quality outcome make sure your contractor is constantly educating themselves. Your contractor should use the most current techniques and best quality products available on the market.  The level of experience and product knowledge in your contractor is crucial in determining the life and quality of the workmanship you pay for. 
• How to decide which contractor is best for me? We suggest meeting with potential contractors and interviewing them, test out their product knowledgeable, experience, see their portfolio, check reviews, referrals and talk to your friends about local experiences.  After a few meetings, you should be able to differentiate between the fly-by-night jack-of-all-trades, and the reputable quality contractor that brings the most knowledge and experience to your project.  
• Why are all the estimates different and how do I know which one to choose? 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.

Another tip... you should look for a contractor or business owner that is involved in the entire process of your project.  This ensures you are getting the most experienced contractor or craftsmanship possible for your investment in the agreed upon price.  

The company owner of MODE CONCRETE, Gareth Tyrrell personally consults with our customers on every job and works on every project to make sure the highest level of quality is produced (that's him in the picture below, look at how super eager he is!). Gareth has a keen eye for the lay out of projects, is an experienced concrete expert and can easily outline available options to fit within your style and budget.

If you live in the Okanagan and have any questions about our services - let us know!