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.

Contemporary Concrete Flooring Overlay Possible on Wooden Substrate - by specialists Mode Concrete in Kelowna BC

A concrete overlay we applied to a wooden subfloor, for our Kelowna client.

Concrete floors are modern, natural and raw. People who want a meticulous pristine material that will always look flawless, steer clear of concrete. It develops wear marks, patinas, natural irregularities, marbling and hairline cracks naturally as it ages. Concrete is a natural material, and regardless if you keep your floor natural grey concrete or stain the surface, the natural patina is what makes concrete so fab and makes your floor totally unique. We are true concrete lovers, are you?

Why do people love concrete floors?

• Well, firstly and most importantly... they look AWESOME!
• They are easy to clean and maintain.
• Amazing longevity, concrete will likely outlive you and your house.  Concrete lasts much longer when compared to other flooring materials.
• Concrete is heat and spill resistant.
• Super durable and easier to repair than other options.
• Concrete is a clean flooring surface, with little worry of bacteria or allergens since there is usually no grout lines.
• Concrete floors wear wonderfully, concrete is totally unique and raw - it ages just like natural stone.
• Future changes (colors, finishes, stains) are usually easy to change and personalize, if your style changes or if you sell your house.  Concrete is easy to cover if you ever want to install other flooring on top.
• Concrete skim coats, micro-toppings and overlays are similar to the thickness and weight of tile.
• The top reason that people love concrete floors, is how shockingly stunning they are!

 Here is a standard grey concrete overlay we applied to a wooden subfloor, for our Kelowna client.

 Here is a standard grey concrete overlay we applied to a wooden subfloor, for our Kelowna client.

If you’re looking for some information about putting concrete floors on wooden substrates, you've come to the right place. Keep in mind we use the most cutting edge products and techniques for our applications and only experienced artisans should complete these sort of applications. Our overlay can be laid onto existing substrate and achieve the look and feel of polished concrete. Our overlays are VOC (volatile organic compounds) and emission free. Our dustless process of finishing concrete floors is done with natural, safe, non-toxic finishing products. After preparing the surface, we can pour a thin layer of new concrete to virtually any surface or 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.  

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

If you have any more questions about anything we discuss in our blog, please contact us today for additional information.

Beachfront Patio with Outdoor Concrete Bar Countertops - located downtown Kelowna on Bernard Avenue, created by MODE CONCRETE

We were recently hired by Memphis Blues BBQ Restaurant, to help create an outdoor patio concrete bar top that is only one block to the beach, located on Bernard Avenue!  A great way to spend a few hours in Kelowna... head downtown, find a patio that lets you enjoy some sunshine, have a drink, have some yummy eats and people watch (all of which takes place right next to the beach!).

At the end of this street (Bernard Avenue), you can see Okanagan Lake.

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 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.  

Concrete Bar Countertops - located downtown Kelowna on Bernard Avenue - created by MODE CONCRETE

We were recently hired by Memphis Blues BBQ Restaurant, to help create a concrete bar counter top that is facing their outdoor patio on Bernard Ave.  A great way to spend a few hours in Kelowna... head downtown, find a patio that lets you enjoy some sunshine, have a drink, have some yummy eats and people watch (all of which takes place right next to the beach!).

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 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.  

How do you decide which contractor to hire?

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

Tips on choosing a contractor

• How do you know what their quality of work is, before hiring them? No matter how large or small project is, if you want a high quality outcome make sure your contractor is constantly educating themselves. Your contractor should use the most current techniques and best quality products available on the market.  The level of experience and product knowledge in your contractor is crucial in determining the life and quality of the workmanship you pay for. 
• How to decide which contractor is best for me? We suggest meeting with potential contractors and interviewing them, test out their product knowledgeable, experience, see their portfolio, check reviews, referrals and talk to your friends about local experiences.  After a few meetings, you should be able to differentiate between the fly-by-night jack-of-all-trades, and the reputable quality contractor that brings the most knowledge and experience to your project.  
• Why are all the estimates different and how do I know which one to choose? You usually get what you pay for, and getting the best deal or accepting the cheapest estimate, will probably not get you the best results or greatest longevity of the product. The difference in cost could be quality of materials, quality of workmanship, level of experience and could dictate your general level of satisfaction for years to come.

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

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

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

Our Concrete Dream Lounger - made by the concrete wizards at MODE CONRETE

Make your neighbors jealous with MODE CONCRETE's concrete dream lounger, perfect for indoors or outdoors. This modern chaise is as lounge worthy as it is a conversation starter.  Our dream lounger used to weigh close to 400lbs, but now it only weighs in at closer to 200lbs.  Gareth has been experimenting again, this time he has come up with the perfect light weight concrete. For the average joe, he basically adds all sorts of concrete magic to our already stunning concrete furniture line... so now it's more mobile and easier to move wherever your life may take you.

Our dream lounger, comfortable and hip—our lounger looks great everywhere. And at nearly 200 lbs it’s not going anywhere, the tide surely won’t wash this away. It looks amazing beachfront, on your dock or poolside. Around a fire or in a garden, the dream lounger even looks stunning inside the home with cushions on top. This modern lounger is as lounge worthy as it is stylish looking. With lots of ergonomic and architectural appeal, we promise you won’t want to move once you sit in this lounger.

All of our furniture is custom and made to order by European trained concrete artisans, using only the best products and techniques available.  Contact us for more details about our concrete furniture, or for pricing details.

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

Concrete Patios, Driveways and Floors - created by the MODE CONCRETE experts

This broom finished concrete patio slab, is a project that we recently completed for a client in Lake Country. 

 MODE CONCRETE can help you redo or construct your concrete slab, patio, or pool deck.

MODE CONCRETE SERVICES INCLUDE

Exposed Aggregate: 

Exposed aggregate concrete has a concrete finish, then pressure cleaned to expose the stone at the surface. Great for driveways, entertainment areas and footpaths. 

Stamped, Coloured and Stained Effects:

Stamped concrete, commonly referred to as patterned concrete or imprinted concrete is designed to resemble brick, slate, flagstone, stone, tile and even wood. Stamped concrete can be used for pool decks, driveways, entries, courtyards, and patios. 

Concrete can assume nearly any shape, design, pattern or texture, one of its most distinguishing features of decorative concrete is colour and sheen, whether used subtly to blend with nature or boldly to make a dramatic design statement.  

Acid Staining concrete is a popular application for transforming concrete slabs. Unique outcomes can be achieved by combining colours and application techniques on cement flooring.

Sidewalks 

Concrete walkways or sidewalks can provide curb appeal to homes and buildings, and are becoming a point of artistic expression by way of a multitude of decorative concrete options. Plain gray concrete is still the most common surface installed; however, we can personalize anything to match your house or personal style. 

Driveways

Deciding on driveway material is easy: asphalt or concrete. Concrete choices have expanded to include an array of decorative options. Decorative concrete is one of the most reasonable ways to spruce up the entrance to your home.  Although plain gray concrete is still installed most often, more people are catching on to the alluring effects possible with decorative concrete - especially acid staining (our favorite)!

Patios and Floors

Outdoor patios and floors, concrete pool decks, a coloured, textured and inviting area, a safe, slip-resistant deck can be designed for you.  Our decorative specialist can help give as much detail and attention to your patios and floors as the interior design of your home.  

Decorative concrete has allowed home owners to create exteriors that can complement their homes, bond with the outdoor environment, and imitate traditionally expensive materials such as slate, stone or even wood - endless options for your space! 

Engineered Slabs and Curbing

There are many variations of concrete slabs depending on the purpose of the slab.

Residential, Commercial and Industrial

All of our stunning concrete services are available for residential, commercial and industrial properties.

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