Help remedy Lackluster Concrete Floors by Finishing them Naturally - inexpensive, starting at $2.50 - $3.50/sq ft - Contact MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna 250.864.6566

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 concrete floor pictured below that we recently refinished in the Okanagan).  This process usually only take 2 days and costs as little as $2.50/sq foot.  

Here is an example of a natural concrete existing kitchen floor, that we simply re-waxed and repaired for this client.  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!

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

Concrete Floor Price and Cost Breakdown:

• $3.50/sq ft - Concrete Floor Sealer and Wax Application
• includes light preparation, cleaning and degreasing
• includes multiple applications of top quality sealant which will be applied onto surface (water based urethane)
• includes multiple applications of high traffic wax
• $2.50/sq ft - Concrete Floor Refinish and Maintenance (that has already been waxed/sealed)
• includes light preparation, cleaning and degreasing
• starting at $1.00/sq ft - Extensive Concrete Prep, Repair or Crack Filling
• repair cracks, chips and holes with color matched concrete
• includes glue removal, chemical cleanup, degreasing and extensively scrubbing/buffing the surface
• price depends on extent of damage on concrete surface and how much time is required
• Volume and trades discounts available on large projects
• Prices published in Spring 2013, and are subject to change.

MODE CONCRETE specializes in Concrete Floors, Overlays and Concrete Surface Staining/Waxing/Sealing - we service the Okanagan Valley in Beautiful BC.  Contact us today for more information or to book a free onsite estimate.

Concrete Pool Deck Repair, Concrete Driveway Repair, Concrete Slab Patching and Concrete Refinishing

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.

We can help talk you through all the options available to you depending on the state of the concrete.  We can stain the concrete, disguise cracks and patch any deteriorated areas. There are so many options available, we can walk you through the entire process and always stay within the original estimated price.

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.

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.  

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.

Color Blocking Concrete.... Go Bold or go Home! Concrete stained by concrete artisan at MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC

Mode Concrete uses bold concrete stains and colors to punctuate raw concrete.  Cindy Manchur (co-owner and artisan) went to town with some concrete stains and was able to build up rich complex colors to contrast against the grey stark concrete. Color blocking is a great way to punch up architectural angles or just add some personality to raw concrete.  

By highlighting certain areas of the concrete surface you can easily accentuate and bring out different angles and shapes.  When it comes to color blocking, we say go bold or go home.

We are able to color block our concrete furniture or other custom concrete pieces upon request - please contact us for more information and available colors.

Contemporary Concrete Floors on the Main Floor (our concrete is the same weight as tile!) - created by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC Canada

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. 

Pictured is a custom black stained concrete overlay floor and tiled fireplace, we created for a client in the Okanagan.   

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.

Concrete Flooring Benefits:

• STYLISH - Undeniably gorgeous, original, one of kind and a piece of art. Homeowners love their concrete floors for their personality. Some owners opt for aesthetic simplicity, while others take advantage of the broad choice of colors and textures available.
• 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.
• 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 a waxed surface, you would think concrete floors would be slippery. But the truth is that as long as your floor is finished with sealers and waxes, 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.  Make sure you or your concrete contractors preform test areas.
• 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 warm mop (use a neutral non-acidic cleaner). The amount of traffic your floors receive will determine the amount of maintenance it will need and how quickly patina's or wear marks appear. A concrete floor with normal traffic will probably need a reapplication of the finish every 2-3 years. 
• 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). Proper installation also means that you won't have to worry about moisture vapors. Vapor barriers should be installed under the concrete slab to block moisture and dampness. Keep in mind that hiring a professional concrete floor installer is the best way to ensure that you won't have problems later and recieve a high-quality concrete product.

MODE CONCRETE created this black stained concrete floor overlay (pictured above), 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.  We are concrete experts, and specialize in all the services we discuss in this blog.  Please contact us for more details or a free onsite consultation and estimate.

Decorative Concrete Patios, Concrete Slabs, Driveways and Pool Decks - MODE CONCRETE are Refinishing, Repair and Installation Experts in Kelowna BC

Mode Concrete can help you refinish, repair or install a concrete surface. We have worked with many residential and commercial clients over the years.  If you want to improve the look of your concrete patio, slab, sidewalk, driveway, retaining walls or pool-deck... the experts at Mode Concrete can give you all the options available. Every project is different, but 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 within your budget and estimated price.  

Mode Concrete created this backyard concrete patio for a client.  We removed the wooden deck and stairs, poured the concrete pad, and then re-installed the wooden deck as it was before.

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). 

Concrete stains are a quick, inexpensive way to transform an uninteresting concrete surface into an elegant surface that’s vibrant with rich color.  This is an acid stain project we completed last year.

MODE CONCRETE specializes in high end decorative concrete applications, concrete sealing, concrete restoration and concrete 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 provides only the highest level of service to our customers.

We are experts at concrete installation, forming, concrete refinishing and all decorative concrete applications.  If you want to hire a professional high-quality concrete company that will stand behind their work and their reputation - contact MODE CONCRETE today.  We provide free onsite consultations to inquiring clients, and a written estimate.  

Mode Concrete helped do all the forming work for this concrete work (pictured right).

Go Cuckoo over Robin's Egg Blue Stained Concrete Custom Tiles - check out our latest extraordinary concrete staining project - made in BC by MODE CONCRETE

Go cuckoo over this robin's egg blue stained concrete.  A custom tile project our artisans have been working on... new favorite color of 2013!  Who wouldn't love the classic durability of natural concrete mixed with a dynamic custom staining application.  This sort of staining can be applied to any of our concrete products.  Multiple layers of staining and pigment have been added to this concrete project, the artisan's spent hours developing the perfect Robin's Egg Blue seen here on this recent custom concrete tile project.

Our concrete tiles are great for
fireplaces, bathrooms, used as a back splash,  applied on a feature 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.

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.

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 are located in Kelowna BC Canada, and will soon offer international shipping.

Modern Large Format Concrete Tiles are Light Weight, High Performance and Easy to Install - made by Mode Concrete in BC Canada

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.  

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.

Concrete Acid Stain Color Chart - created by MODE CONCRETE in the Okanagan, BC, Canada

Acid 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. Acid stain consists of a acid and water solution mixed with metallic salts that can be applied in a wide array of colors. The effect is a natural looking color pattern with mottled shades of the same hue, marbling occurs and each stained piece of concrete is a piece of art.  The art of concrete staining is only as good as the artisan. This is a highly technical and specialized process, we advise that you receive test or sample areas before deciding colors, finishes or assessing the skill of the contractor.  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.

MODE CONCRETE can also apply a wide range of concrete sealers... simply alone, or on top of any concrete stain.  Concrete surfaces like walls, driveways, patios, sidewalks, floors, pool decks, garage floors all require sealers to protect them from damage, wear/tear and the natural environmental factors the surface is exposed to.  By properly maintaining and protecting your concrete, you will add years of life to your concrete surface.

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.

Astrofire by Modfire, stunning in Aqualux or Maraschino - A Midcentury Modern Freestanding Fire Unit, available in Canada through MODE CONCRETE

Introducing Astrofire, the newest addition to the Modfire family. The Astrofire shares the same DNA as our hugely popular Urbanfire line and once again reinvents the outdoor fireplace. The circular design inspires conversation, creates stunning focal point and heats up your evenings with style.

The Astrofire is manufactured from 14 gauge steel, and hand-rolled into a wide conical shape and attached to a ¼”plate steel base with sleek tapered legs.

Astrofire measures 34” in diameter and 17” tall. It has a spacious 22” wide firebox for burning full size logs. Our propane or natural gas equipped model has a 125,000 BTU stainless star burner to keep you warm and toasty on even the coldest evenings.

The Astrofire is available in all of our current Modfire colors: Tangerine, Maraschino, Azure Avocado, Ultra-Lounge White, Charcoal and our newest color Aqualuxe.  Wood, propane or natural gas.

All Astrofires come with clear fire-glass for the outer trim ring and are available in wood burning, propane or natural gas models

For any fellow Canadians who are as speechless as we are about Modfire's entire line - contact MODE CONCRETE for ordering details eh?!  We can honestly say, for us... it was love at first sight.  

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

Modern Concrete Loft Floors - repaired and naturally refinished by MODE CONCRETE, in Kelowna BC

This ultra modern and super hip penthouse loft has gorgeous, natural concrete floors.  Our client asked us to come in and repair, maintain and refinish them.  Our process usually only takes 2 days, is affordable, is totally natural (we only use safe, eco-friendly products) and you get some serious skill when you hire Mode.  Gareth, the owner and president of Mode Concrete works directly with all our clients throughout the process.  

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

And who can forget about concrete's drop dead gorgeous stylistic appeal?!?!?  Concrete creates a major design element and has major architectural appeal.  Other materials contrast easily and stand out concrete's raw and natural appeal.  We are true concrete lovers... are you?

Please contact MODE CONCRETE for more details about our concrete flooring services.