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.

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.

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.

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.

Wowza... Check out this Ultra-Cool, Contemporary and Modern Concrete Floor

Here is a before/after picture of a untreated contractors grade concrete floor that we finished. 

The best thing of all… it usually only takes 2 days, it's cheap, is a long term flooring option and we go anywhere in the Okanagan!  You may ask, how cheap is cheap?  Well the cost of finishing your concrete floor is usually less than installation of other flooring materials, that's not including the actual flooring material cost.  Definitely a cost effective option when deciding on flooring.

Get in touch with us today for a free estimate, or if you have any questions.  

Basement Concrete Floors Naturally Look Amazing and Modern - Simple Process with Concrete Sealers and Wax

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.

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.

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

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 basement floor pictured below) 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.

For more information on sealing, waxing or staining any interior or exterior concrete floors, decks, or surfaces, please contact MODE CONCRETE.  We service Kelowna and the entire Okanagan Valley, in BC Canada.

Black Acid Stained Modern Concrete Floor - created in the Okanagan

Okay, we know the room isn't totally done yet, but we had to share... And check out those stunning views, I'd love to be positioned here next to Kalmalka Lake anytime of the year!!  

For this project our clients came to us with a specific color in mind, so we began experimenting and worked our magic.  We created a sample for them, experimented a little with coloring and staining (we tried to color match a tile they showed us).  After we completed the sample and had the clients approval we knew exactly how to achieve their vision in their new gorgeous custom home.  And we must say... by having a wood ceiling, it really warms up the space and is a great contrast to the concrete.  Amazing design choices, we have some serious style envy!

We are going to help complete the look, with a floor to ceiling custom concrete fireplace surround. We'll have more pictures up soon once we're done, so stay tuned...

We are concrete floor specialists and service the entire Okanagan.  Please contact us for more details on our services or to book a free concrete design consultation. 

Sealing and Waxing Concrete Floors - An Easy, Cost-Effective way to Create a Style Statement

An existing concrete floor that MODE CONCRETE sealed and waxed.  We didn't add any color or pigment.  This is natural standard grey concrete - and we are in and out within usually 2 days!  A quick and stylish fix to any new and existing concrete surface.

How do you prepare concrete for sealer, wax or stain??

• Thoroughly clean (pressure wash if necessary) and de-grease your concrete, allow to totally dry out.  Typically wait a few days before sealer, wax, or stain application.
• Create a test section or test sample pieces, to see exact coloring and finishing is to your preference (don't do the test in direct sunlight).
• All applications of sealer, wax and stains should be done in thin coats opposed to heavy thick coats.  Wait at least 2 hours between coats.  
• If applying on outdoor concrete surfaces only do in warmer seasons (or hoard off and heat area).
• Allow 24 hours to dry before regular traffic.
• Apply in well ventilated areas.  Be careful of sparks from fans and electrical devices if using any flammable liquids.
• Always wear appropriate protective gear, follow manufacturers application instructions and gain knowledge on the products you anticipate using.
• Sealers are usually best applying with a spray gun, while wax is usually mopped on. But make sure to check your product directions and see what they recommend.
• Hot days are not the best for applying sealers.

Why should you seal and wax your concrete?

• It creates and maintains a natural luster and shine that is a characteristic of maintained concrete. 
• Increases the longevity and life of the concrete.
• Makes your concrete resist moisture, staining, and helps to prevent surface damage.
• Anti-slip and other additives can also be added, if you're concerned about slipping on the concrete.
• Various sheens and matte finishes are available, depending on your style preference.
• Brings out the natural irregularities, patinas and patterns that occur in concrete - in our opinion this is the best thing!

Contact MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC, for a free onsite concrete consultation and an estimate.  For more information or to book an appointment, please call 250.864.6566!

White Concrete - Gleaming White or Stained to Perfection?

Have you ever heard of using white concrete for floors, tiles, or countertops?  White concrete is sure to create an impact, whatever the application and is the perfect color to start with when designing anything. This innovative white version of concrete is reminiscent of newly fallen snow and blends so well in a variety of design styles. Basically, the product mix of the concrete uses white cement in place of the standard gray which allows for more vibrant, richer colors to be achieved when staining or when adding coloring pigment.  It is also on trend to add no color or stain at all and leave the concrete a bright, gleaming white.  The white allows spaces to feel larger, architecture and design elements stand out and textures/colors to really pop against this. 

White concrete pictured above, was created by MODE CONCRETE.

If pure white is not your thing, let your imagination go crazy.  Stained, colored, textured or smooth, concrete boasts limitless design options. It provides a blank canvas upon which homeowners and designers can leave their mark. Concrete lends itself to so many design styles, but best thing is how concrete gains character over time and like freckles, concrete floors help to camouflage wear as it gets older and only gets better with age, wear and traffic.

But beyond the design advantages, these surfaces are low maintenance and they blend seamlessly with a multitude of various design styles.  Concrete will have variations and inconsistencies, all characteristic properties of concrete.  With concrete we embrace and look forward to variations, in particular concrete floors will develop irregularities, freckles, hairline fractures, spider webbing, and will patina naturally with wear over time.

CONCRETE CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE RECOMMENDATIONS:

• Dust and wipe frequently to remove gritty soil or dirt.
• Use natural, nonabrasive cleaners for best results and longevity of concrete, sealers and stains.
• Every few years, rewaxing or restaining may be required depending on wear and tear.

MODE CONCRETE is an artisan concrete design studio specializing in custom concrete, concrete floors, fireplace surrounds, furniture, and other custom projects, and the list goes on and on... Basically, we conceptualize, design and build gnarly awesome stuff out of concrete on a daily basis.  We are largely fueled by caffeine, constant brainstorming, and love hitting the drawing board with our next project or idea.  Gareth lives, dreams, breathes concrete... his passion for concrete is infectious.  We encourage you to call for a free onsite concrete design consultation.

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 Floors, Overlays and Staining Experts located in the Okanagan

We specialize in concrete floors and concrete overlays, great for inside or outside. Concrete is an amazing flooring or surface solution that adds tons of style and personality to any space!  

 Here are some concrete stain colors that MODE CONCRETE offers. We have only applied one layer of color for this sample board. The color intensifies and gets more complex, depending on how many colors and layers of stain you would like.

 MODE CONCRETE only uses the best quality products and sealers (our trade secret) and only use the most experienced craftsmen we can find to create your one-of-a-kind concrete project. Please keep in mind we have extensively researched the market, and use only the most cutting edge innovative products and techniques available, often travelling worldwide and to various tradeshows to make sure we are staying ahead of the competition by using the latest concrete supplies available on the market. We hand hone the concrete to an incredibly smooth, luxurious surface. Our concrete is leaps above the competition and there is a reason we are the leaders in decorative concrete throughout the Okanagan and Western Canada. 

Contact us for more information.

Cool and Modern Concrete Floors

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.

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.

Above is a picture of a concrete floor that MODE CONCRETE created

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. 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. 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.
• 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).

And another picture of a concrete floor that MODE CONCRETE created.