MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna - Sealcoating, Acid Staining, Repair, Waterproofing Experts

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We specialize in luxury concrete finishing, resurfacing, and concrete repairs in Kelowna and the Okanagan. Contact us for a free estimate or more details! 

We offer acid staining and eco water-based staining, both appropriate for indoor or outdoor concrete surfaces. Artisan stains can be applied to any horizontal or vertical 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. Our staining gives the result of 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. If your concrete surface is already experiencing a surface failure or what we call 'SPALLING' (pitting, flaking, cracking, crumbling surface, etc) it's always best to clean up the concrete and apply a waterproofing agent to eliminate further surface deterioration or water damage.

The first step to any exterior concrete surface treatment is to properly clean and prepare the surface. Usually high pressure power washing does the trick, but in some instances it's necessary to use more extreme measures. Every project is different - it's best to call us for an onsite consultation so we can make accurate recommendations, specific to your situation.

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 Maintenance, Repair, Acid-Staining - Pool Decks, Driveways, Patios, Floors - Kelowna's MODE CONCRETE can help you!

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 patio 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, retaining walls , 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. We specialize in luxury concrete finishing, resurfacing, and concrete repairs in Kelowna and the Okanagan. Contact us for a free estimate or more details! 

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How often should you waterproof and pressure wash your concrete? ARTICLE by Mode Concrete In Kelowna BC

Concrete Pool Decks, Patios, Driveways and Pathways - Pressure Washing, Waterproofing, Sealing, Yearly Maintenance, Repair & Refinishing 

ARTICLE and all IMAGES POSTED BY THE PROS AT MODE CONCRETE IN KELOWNA BC.

Now is the perfect time of year to look at your exterior concrete, especially if your concrete is exposed to the extremely hot temperatures we have in the Okanagan.  Applying concrete sealers and waterproofing agents are an essential part of finishing any indoor or outdoor concrete surface. 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.


How often should you seal or waterproof concrete? 

Everyone has something different to say about how often to seal your driveway. Some say maintenance should be done every 3-5 years, whereas others say every year. The determining factor here should be what sort of climate zone or wear/tear your concrete is exposed to. Factors like how much moisture, wear or heat exposure should be taken into consideration.

If your concrete is exposed to moisture, freeze/thaw zones and lots of sunshine or heat (like the weather here in the Okanagan) your concrete might require re-sealing and maintenance every year or two. If your concrete is exposed to salt 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.

How often should you pressure wash concrete? 
You will see a noticeable difference when your driveway is pressure washed once a year. It all depends on how clean you would like your driveway to be and how fast dirt collects or how fast moss, mold and algae grow.

Can oil or rust be removed from pressure washing?
A basic power washing of concrete will not get oil spots out. If you do have oil spots which need to be cleaned individually. Due to that fact that driveways are so porous oil spills usually soak right into the concrete and so it may be near impossible to get all of it out. We can usually lighten it up quite a bit by giving those areas some detailed attention. Similarly to oil spots, rust stains the concrete and it is very, very difficult to out, a basic power washing of the driveway will likely not remove rust stains. There are ways to remove or at least diminish the stains but it would not involve pressure washing. If you notice staining, you should get your concrete pressure washed and sealed immediately to eliminate further damage.


Depending on your concrete, a good suggestion to disguise rust or oil is to acid-stain the surface to camouflage the imperfections (like the image to the right).

Concrete services we offer on pool decks, pathways, driveways, patios or concrete slabs:

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

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.  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 always stay within the original estimated price and on schedule (weather permitting... we live in the mountains afterall!).

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

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.

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.

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.

Modern Trends in Concrete Flooring - Concrete Water-Based Stain, Acid Stain, Terrazzo, Concrete Overlays, Top Coats, Skim Coats

Here is an overlay MODE CONCRETE applied on an existing concrete basement floor.

Water Based Eco-Stain (non-toxic)
Eco-stains stains are another concrete flooring treatment that can be used on existing or brand new concrete for a decorative touch. These eco-friendly stains consist pigment that can be applied in a variety of colors and is applied to the surface. The effect is either vibrant, with the application of numerous coats, to subtle and marbled, depending on color choices and application techniques.

Acid Stain Concrete
Acid stains are applied to concrete flooring (new and existing) and add a wonderful a decorative touch. Acid stains consist of a solution of acid and water 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 peice of art.  The floor and art of acid staining is only as good as the artisan. This concrete flooring finish looks as superb in retail stores as it does in modern homes, and it is ultra easy to maintain.

Scored and Cut Concrete
Scoring concrete flooring can add dimension to the flooring through custom shapes and patterns. Scoring is done by making shallow cuts to the surface. The flooring can be done in a single color or multiple shades for a unique pattern. Floors should be sealed and waxed after treatment to maintain their beauty over the long term.

Concrete Overlays, Top Coats, Skim Coats 
A poured concrete floor (overlays, topcoats and skim-coats) are installed and poured on top of the existing surface or floor. Certain applications of concrete are suitable for underfloor and infloor radiant heating.  Make sure you use a reputable concrete contractor to ensure the proper preparation and techniques are being used on your project.

With proper preparation it can be applied to existing concrete, on a wooden sub-floor, on a wooden substrate, on top of most uneven surfaces.  Existing flooring can be covered with a concrete overlay if you want to change your floor or if it's in bad shape. An appointment is always recommend in this regard, so we can properly asses the prep required.

Terrazzo
Terrazzo is an ancient artistic creation, consisting of chips of glass, marble, or similar material fixed in tinted cement or concrete, then ground and polished to down. Terrazzo is a highly durable concrete material great for flooring, tiles, countertops, fireplace surrounds.  It is especially great when applied in high traffic installations for its resilience and longevity. The composition of terrazzo allows you to incorporate post-consumer and pre-consumer recyclables like glass, marble and cement.  We can even add glow rock dust...  it's probably our favorite additive!

Concrete flooring provides a unlimited options to modernize any space. With many options and colors and relatively low maintenance, it is no wonder concrete flooring has become the trend of today and the choice of many top designers and architects.

MODE CONCRETE provides all the services we discussed in this blog.  If you'd like anymore information please contact us.

Rejuvenate and Modernize Concrete Floors - Staining and Acid Etching

Whether you seek a contemporary, rustic, or more traditional style, acid-etched stained concrete makes a stunning flooring choice (inside or outside).  Acid stain can be applied by using many different techniques, giving a variety of dramatic results.

MODE CONCRETE stain colors (pictured above). Color can be subtle or intense, depending on how many applications we apply.

How does Acid Stain Work?  Chemical stains can be applied to new or old, plain or colored concrete surfaces. Although they are often called acid stains, acid isn't the ingredient that colors the concrete. Acid stain doesn't cover imperfections, but rather transforms that drab piece of imperfect concrete into a unique and elegant masterpiece of marbled color.

Most projects take 2 days - Acid stained concrete is one of the most popular applications for transforming concrete slabs and floors.  We understand how busy your household is, and most acid staining projects will be totally completed within 2 days.  Because concrete has porous qualities and is a blank canvas, stain is the perfect thing to brighten up old concrete and add some style to any concrete surface. Staining gives a completely original look to concrete and cement floors, concrete driveways, patios, slabs, walkways, pool decks, concrete walls and all concrete surfaces.

Owner Acceptance - Most people love the unpredictability of the final results, it makes their concrete surface totally original.  Acid-etched stained concrete is extremely durable, easy to clean, and exceptionally scratch and stain resistant in almost any situation - wear and tear adds character and natural patinas increase and develop over time. Though stained concrete floors can be expensive depending on level of customization (prices rival those for high-quality ceramic-tile installations), they are very easy to clean, maintain and have incredible longevity.  Before creating your acid stained or etched floor, be sure to see samples and let the contractor preform a small test area if they are applying acid on an existing concrete surface.

How much does staining concrete cost? The cost of staining concrete will vary, depending on how complicated the design process is. A simple concrete staining should start at approx. $2 to $4 per square foot (according to the concrete network in Nov 2012).

MODE CONCRETE specializes in all concrete staining, sealing and waxing.  We can create concrete floors and overlays, great for inside or outside. A great way to add style and personality to any space! You can stain or color to further personalize your project. Contact us today for more information.

Concrete Patios, Concrete Stairs, Concrete Slabs and Forming - We are Concrete Experts Servicing Kelowna and the Okanagan

A recently completed concrete patio slab and custom concrete stairs.

MODE CONCRETE cares about the little details.  We bring the latest European concrete techniques, concrete products and  concrete design ideas to the Okanagan.  

We travel often to educate ourselves and source products worldwide, keeping us ahead of the trends and competition.  If you hire MODE CONCRETE for your next custom concrete project, you will be impressed immediately with our knowledge, quality of workmanship and customer dedication.  

We are available for free onsite estimates.  Contact us today to make a booking!  250.864.6566

Acid Staining and Sealing Concrete

We specialize in acid staining and sealing concrete surfaces.

Concrete acid staining is an exciting medium with a hidden natural beauty revealed spontaneously by reactive chemical stain. Each concrete pad will stain uniquely according to variations in surface density, texture, porosity, and composition.  Observe beautiful patterns of marbling, mottling, veining, speckling to resemble stone, leather, clouds, etc.  Our preferred method of coloring concrete, the acid stain penetrates and becomes integral to the concrete, so it will never fade or peel. We have many great dyes and pigment options available.  Acid staining is great for driveways, patios, concrete floors (garage, basement), concrete slabs or anything concrete.  We can also etch a pattern into the concrete - endless design options!

MODE CONCRETE can apply a wide range of concrete sealers.  Concrete walls, driveways, patios, sidewalks, floors, any concrete surface.  Different sheens available (matte or glossy), protects your concrete, and adds years of life to your concrete. 

We service both residential and commercial clients.  We are an Okanagan owned company, and our goal is to exceed our customers expectations every time!  Contact us for more information or for a free estimate.

Outdoor Living Mini Expo - Kelowna BC - June 23 2012

Outdoor Living Mini Expo

Tired of making the rounds to find pieces for your outdoor living space? Sun Country Furniture and Mode Concrete are hosting a one stop shopping expo on June 23 that will save you time and inspire your outdoor living decisions...

We have assembled artisans and suppliers of unique and inspired outdoor living products that will change the way you look at your outdoor space, including...

· A taste of Clementi Italian outdoor wood ovens  - a chef will be firing up a Clementi oven and showing us how to cook pizza and bread, the Italian way!  Can you say delizioso?!

· Sun Country’s latest shipment of  stunning outdoor furniture and accessories

· Mode Concrete’s concrete furniture line

· Outdoor grills from Luxor Outdoor Kitchen Products

· Brazilian Grills custom stainless outdoor kitchen kits

· Modfire  a modern take on outdoor fireplaces, custom made by Arizona artisans

· Granite Outdoor lighting and speaker systems

· Mode Concrete’s luxury custom outdoor kitchens

Giveaway  draw – Acid Stained Grape Scene (17” x 33”) by Mode Concrete—$700 Value

Entrants are encouraged to make a donation to Kids Care upon entering draw.

For additional information, please contact:

Gareth Tyrrell - modeconcrete@shaw.ca