Concrete Floors Naturally Look Amazing and Modern - Simple, Inexpensive, Quick Process - ARTICLE by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC Canada

No concrete floor is complete without the application of a surface treatment. 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.

All pictures above, is a concrete floor surface finished and completed by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC.

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 are 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. Always make sure that the concrete contractor preforms tests on small areas, or shows you samples of what to expect.

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) it takes less than a week!

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.

Considering Modern Concrete Floors in your Home or Business? We address top questions & concerns - by MODE CONCRETE

Are you considering concrete floors in your home or business?  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.

 The floor before we worked our concrete magic.

 Here is a brand new polished natural concrete floor we did for the Manteo / Rykon Group Head office in Kelowna BC.

 Here is a brand new polished natural concrete floor we did for the Manteo / Rykon Group Head office in Kelowna BC. 

 Here is a brand new polished natural concrete floor we did for the Manteo / Rykon Group Head office in Kelowna BC.

Top questions we get about concrete floors or overlays:

• 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.  
• Will concrete 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.

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

Contemporary Concrete Fireplace Tiles are All the Rage - article by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC

Here is a project that MODE CONCRETE just completed. The quality of our products are extraordinary, have incredible longevity and are too stunning for words.  MODE CONCRETE offers luxury concrete floor finishing and 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. 

Even the dogs approve of this stylish look.  Contact MODE CONCRETE today to discuss your project at modeconcrete@shaw.ca or call / text 250.864.6566.  We specialize in high-end artisan concrete, servicing Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley.

Environmentally Conscious Concrete Floors, A Natural & Dustless Solution for all you fellow Style Savvy Treehugger Types - article by MODE CONCRETE

Concrete floors offer a rather lovely solution for all you environmentally conscious, style savvy, treehugger types. Most people fall in love with the understated elegance that concrete floors offer. 

We provide a simple, eco-friendly, inexpensive solution to finish any existing or brand new concrete floor in your home or business. 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 raw 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 take only a few days for our artisan(s) to complete. 

Concrete floors are usually dried and cured for a minimum of 28 days before any finishing processes can be preformed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

What's with all the HYPE about Concrete Floors? Here we discuss Maintenance, Expected Life and DIY vs Hiring the Professionals

We can help you with maintenance  refinishing and rewaxing your existing concrete floor.  MODE CONCRETE refinished the floor below for a client.  When we refinish your floor it will come to life... in a non-toxic, eco-friendly, inexpensive kinda way.  We can help to restore and bring out the natural raw color of your concrete floor, original patinas and mottled beauty marks.  We love concrete for this very reason.  

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

Expected Life: Concrete floors have amazing longevity and concrete will likely outlive you and your house. The life expectancy of concrete slabs and floors far exceed that of other flooring materials. Carpeting, hard wood, cork and vinyl are subject to tears, staining, damage and generally shows age and wear way quicker than concrete. People with allergies may also have concerns about dust or molds that may be harbored in carpet fibers, that they need not worry about with concrete. In addition, many floor coverings need to be replaced every few years.  Also keep in mind, that concrete is super easy to cover with another type of flooring if your tastes change over the years.

Hire Professional or DIY? Since concrete flooring is very hard and an unforgiving flooring material with highly unpredictable results - make sure you hire an experience concrete contractor.  See samples and do test areas before deciding what route to go.  There are lots of options are available, just call your local concrete flooring expert for all the options available to you in your area.  Do-it-yourself projects can sometimes erode value, if poor materials or workmanship are used for the project especially when using a highly unpredictable material like concrete. 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.

Want to do some more research about concrete flooring?  Check out what About.com has to in 'An Overview of Concrete Flooring' - http://flooring.about.com/od/types-of-flooring/a/An-Overview-Of-Concrete-Flooring.htm.

MODE CONCRETE specializes in custom concrete - located in the Okanagan.

Available to travel for client, depending on scope and project.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.  

Concrete Floors are Ultra Modern, Industrial, and Durable - Concrete Floors, Overlays and Top-Coats by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC

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 overlay that we applied to an uneven concrete basement floor.  It is 'standard grey' with basic sealers and waxes applied to the surface.  It's gorgeous alone or the perfect blank canvas for any finishing or color you can dream up.  Can you say concrete love?!?!?

Why do People Love Concrete Floors:
Durable, long-lasting and ideal for creating a cutting edge, modern and industrial feel.  Can easily be warmed up (to fit in traditional design schemes) by applying water based eco-stain or acid stains to the surface.

How are concrete floors installed:
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.

Where Should you put Concrete Floors: 
Kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms and living areas all look fabulously contemporary and modern with concrete floors.  With proper preparation it can be applied to existing concrete, on wooden sub-floors or wooden substrates or on top of any uneven surface.  An appointment is always recommend in this regard, so we can properly asses the prep required.

How To Look After and Maintain Concrete Floors:
Although porous and  it's properties are similar to natural stone, if adequately sealed and waxed upon installation your concrete will be naturally resistant to spills and stains.  It is a very low-maintenance and easy to keep clean.  We remove the dust from the surface with a broom or vacuum, then mop with a natural, non-abrasive, non-toxic cleaner.  Easy peasy.

If you get a brand new concrete floor and after a few years you notice that your once shiny concrete floors starts looking dull-ish, call your concrete man for a rewax and reseal to re-achieve that brand new glistening sheen.  For a more rustic look, some people prefer the natural wear and age that appears on concrete and don't like to reseal/rewax the surface.  Everything with concrete comes down to personal preference, and style...  but one thing we guarantee, it'll age and beautify immensely as it gets older.  It embraces age, as we all should.

Pouring concrete floors, overlays, top-coats and skim-coats on Wooden Subfloor and Substrates:
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.

If you have any questions, need an estimate or would like to make an appointment, please contact us today!

Hip and Modern Basement Concrete Floors - we are specialists at finishing your new or existing concrete floors

MODE CONCRETE - Finished Basement Concrete Floor Contractors, that service the entire Okanagan.  The best thing about finishing your basement or existing concrete floor... we are usually in and out within 2 days!  A quick and stylish fix to any new or existing concrete surface or floor.  

Enhancing the concrete rather than covering it up is fast becoming the gold standard in basement floor treatments, with benefits that extend well beyond aesthetics. You'll notice that the natural variations in concrete and permanent staining or marks get camouflaged into the floor and add 'beauty marks' and marbling - all characteristic of concrete.

This blog is about a recent job we completed for a client in Kelowna.  They wanted their existing concrete basement floor finished.  Their house was only a few years old and the concrete floor in the basement hadn't ever been treated or sealed.  We had to spend a little extra time preparing the surface, removing and buffing out stains. Gareth did a great job removing lots of the deep penetrating stains that developed naturally to the surface, with regular wear and tear.  Any untreated concrete surface needs a good cleaning and preparation to make sure the finishing products adhere to the surface of the concrete.  After the preparation stage is completed, we apply numerous applications of sealers and high traffic wax to achieve this look and protect the surface.  

Here is what the floor looked like before.

And here is what it looked like after we were done with it.

The finishing sealers/waxes we apply to concrete floors give it a luster or uniform reflective quality...  oh gorgeous natural concrete, how we love you all bare and naked and simply beautiful!

We are specialists in concrete acid staining or coloring, sealing, and waxing new and old concrete (great for concrete floors, garages, driveways, walls, patios, decks, pool decks).  We also specialize in all concrete repairs and maintenance - contact us for more details.

Modern Kitchen with Concrete Countertops - made in the Okanagan by MODE CONCRETE

Another project completed by MODE CONCRETE for our clients in Vernon. Check out those views, wouldn't it be lovely to wake up here every morning, make a coffee and be spellbound by all that gorgeous Canadian speldor?  Superb design choices, wonderful clients and a stunning view... we love everything about this house!  The concrete countertops that we created for them, is the perfect finishing touch to an amazingly designed kitchen.

For this countertop we added black pigment to the concrete, to integrally color the concrete product mix.

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

We recently joined houzz, and it has some amazing ideas if you are needed some design inspiration check out this site!  Here is our MODE CONCRETE Houzz profile.  Here are some articles from Houzz about concrete countertops...  Kitchen Counters: Concrete, the Nearly Indestructible Option and Amazing Ways with Concrete Countertops.

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

Basement Concrete Floor - Modern, Contemporary, Custom and Eco-Friendly

Concrete floors have been used for decades for commercial applications in stores and office buildings.  Most of those beautiful, modern and shiny floors in department stores are finished concrete floors. Recently, the use of concrete as a residential flooring option has become more popular as more beautiful and economical techniques have become available, and word of mouth has spread about the amazing benefits of concrete floors. Concrete flooring is so durable that it has become a great option, economically and packs quite the style statement.

Here is a basement concrete floor that we recently sealed and waxed for some of our favorite clients.  We love love love the final look!!

Some reasons you should consider concrete flooring:

• you don't even have to leave the house or go shopping, the flooring is already in your home
• as your taste or style evolves, it's easy to change the look of your concrete floor
• every house already has a concrete floor waiting to show it's potential and personality
• it's an eco-friendly flooring option
• it is has great longevity when compared to other flooring materials
• it enhances the integrity of architect's designs
• they are easy to maintain and clean
• it's easy to change, especially if you sell your home; the next owner can place carpet or wood on top of the concrete slab
• they are great in regions with a lot of sand, snow or moisture
• they are a good alternative to carpet if you have allergies

Here is a picture of an aged concrete floor, with our 'kalmalka aqua' stain applied to the top.  As it ages and gets worn out, it will start coming to life and revel it's 'beauty marks.' 

Whether it's simply sealed and waxed, acid-stained, painted, overlays, microtoppings, radiant floors, or a unique personal floor, concrete floors offer a huge range of custom options to fit into any space or style. Concrete flooring (sometimes referred to as cement flooring) used to be hidden under other flooring materials, but why not embrace the beauty of concrete and use the concrete itself as your floor. You can also color the concrete, or apply textures, patterns, seams, which bring new life to your concrete.

If you live in the Okanagan, please contact MODE CONCRETE for more details.

Create a Major Design Impact - Contemporary Floor to Ceiling Black Concrete Tiled Fireplace

We have always been passionate about concrete. Versatile, durable, elegant, great longevity, unique and modern... only a few reasons why we love it. At MODE CONRETE we collaborate with clients, architects and designers to create beautiful, contemporary concrete pieces. Our hand cast artisan method using high performance concrete allows us to create unique solutions and designs. 

We recently completed this fireplace for a client that came with a specific design and style in mind.   We were able to achieve their vision by staining the concrete and custom making large concrete tiles.

We specialize in all high-end decorative concrete surfaces and guarantee customer satisfaction.  Check out our website for our full portfolio - http://www.modeconcrete.com/

Easily Update and Modernize your Fireplace... Refacing an Existing 70s Brick Fireplace Surround with Modern Concrete Tiles

We recently re-faced an older 70s brick fireplace, refacing it in large, modern, custom hand-cast concrete tiles.

And here's the after photo, totally modernized and beautiful!!

We can design and create any fireplace surround, mantle or hearth out of custom shaped concrete tiles to achieve your original one-of-a-kind design.  We work with you to achieve the look that you are going for.  The concrete we create is a piece of art and carries on a life of its own, you'll notice it gains 'character' and 'beauty marks' as it ages.  It is the ultimate material to go around your fireplace... it's heat resistant, super stylish and camouflages ash or wood sap.

We love hitting the drawing board with our next custom concrete project.  We specialize in all high-end decorative concrete surfaces and guarantee customer satisfaction.  Check out our website for our full portfolio - http://www.modeconcrete.com/