Pool Decks, Driveways, Patios, Floors - Expert Concrete Maintenance, Repair, Acid-Staining in Kelowna - MODE CONCRETE

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

Here is our latest acid staining project we completed around this lovely pool... check out their views. Definitely one of the many reasons why people love living in the Okanagan.

Here is a before picture.

 And here is after we stained the surface of this pool deck! It looks brand new and super stylish.

 

This pool deck was sandblasted then acid stained... it had many years of sealer build up that needed to be stripped and removed before we could stain the surface. 

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.

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.

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.

SEALING, PRESSURE WASHING, YEARLY MAINTENANCE - CONCRETE POOL DECK AND DRIVEWAY RECOMMENDATIONS - ARTICLE BY MODE CONCRETE, ESTABLISHED SPECIALISTS IN KELOWNA BC

Now is the perfect time of year to look at your exterior concrete, to see if it needs protection before our extremely hot Okanagan summers kick in.  

 Exposed aggregate / Stamped concrete, that MODE CONCRETE pressure washed and applied a protective exterior topcoat sealer.  This protects the longevity of the concrete and provides environmental protection.  This a recent project we did near Okanagan Lake for our lovely clients.

Wondering how often to seal your driveway?
Everyone has something different to say about how often to seal your driveway. Some say every 3-5 years, whereas others say every year. The determining factor here should be what sort of weather or climate zone your concrete is exposed to. Environmental factors, rain, snow, freeze/thaw zones, or high sunshine areas should be taken into consideration. If your driveway is exposed to freeze/thaw zones and lots of sunshine or heat (like the weather here in the Okanagan) your driveway might require re-sealing and maintenance every other year. If you salt your driveway 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.

It is recommended you seal your brand new concrete after it is cured (28 days after it's poured).  If you don't seal your concrete, water may seep into the surface pores of the concrete, which can eventually lead to surface or structural damage.

How can I tell if my concrete needs resealing? Water should bead up on the surface of the concrete if your sealer is doing its job. If this is not happening, it's time to reseal your concrete. High traffic areas or highly acidic areas (exposure to salt, chlorine, vehicles) will likely need resealing on a more frequent basis. Properly maintaining your concrete saves money in the long run. Make sure you have a protective barrier on your concrete to get the maximum longevity of your investment.

How much does concrete maintenace cost?  To extend the life of concrete, you’ll want to keep it well-maintained. After your concrete is poured and cured, applying concrete sealer to the surface is the final step (sealing usually done 1 or 2 months after pouring). Concrete sealer cost is not cheap but this final stage will vastly improve the durability of the driveway. Expect to pay $0.75 to $1.50 per square foot for one application or coating of sealer (which usually includes the cost of pressure washing the surface).  Anti slip additives or repairing chips and cracks can increase this cost a little.

When you contact Mode Concrete, you'll see quickly why we have so many repeat customers and recommendations. We always go the extra mile for our clients.  Contact us today for an onsite written estimate.

Concrete Pool Deck & Driveway - SEALING, PRESSURE WASHING, YEARLY MAINTENANCE - MODE CONCRETE, Established Specialists in Kelowna BC

Who wants to worry about unsealed, chipped, cracked or crumbly concrete interfering with summer fun?! No-one, that's who.

For this project below, the customer wanted to re-seal and pressure wash their existing concrete pool deck and patio.  

 

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). 

How often should you seal your driveway?

• Everyone has something different to say about how often to seal your driveway. Some say every 3-5 years, whereas others say every year. The determining factor here should be what sort of weather or climate zone your concrete is exposed to. Environmental factors, rain, snow, freeze/thaw zones, or high sunshine areas should be taken into consideration. If your driveway is exposed to freeze/thaw zones and lots of sunshine or heat (like the weather here in the Okanagan) your driveway might require re-sealing and maintenance every other year. If you salt your driveway 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. 
• It is recommended you seal your brand new concrete after it is cured (28 days after it's poured).  If you don't seal your concrete, water may seep into the surface pores of the concrete, which can eventually lead to surface or structural damage.

How can I tell if my concrete needs resealing?

• Water should bead up on the surface of the concrete if your sealer is doing its job. If this is not happening, it's time to reseal your concrete. High traffic areas or highly acidic areas (exposure to salt, chlorine, vehicles) will likely need resealing on a more frequent basis.
• Properly maintaining your concrete saves money in the long run. Make sure you have a protective barrier on your concrete to get the maximum longevity of your investment. 

What can I do if my concrete is spalling or has a surface failure?

• Spalling and surface failures are most likely caused by 1) Freeze thaw damage & water penetrating the concrete surface and then expanding as it freezes or 2) poor finishing and the use of water on the surface to aid in the finishing process. Excess water and overfinishing create a weak surface that can't handle freeze-thaw expansion and contraction. You should always get a signed contract with a concrete installer with specific warranty language dealing with spalling and cracking. To fix the spalling, you may need to resurface the driveway with an overlay or replace the entire driveway.
• Sealers are a great way to protect concrete from spalling deterioration. A good-quality sealer designed for use on exterior concrete will help minimize water saturation and protect against salt damage. Even with a good sealer, the concrete itself remains the most important component in avoiding spalling.
• Spalling details obtained from the Concrete Network. http://www.concretenetwork.com/fix-spalled-concrete/spalled-concrete-new-driveway.html 

Mode Concrete can help you refinish, repair or install lots of different indoor or outdoor concrete surfaces (we can even help with outdoor kitchens!). We have worked with many residential and commercial clients over the years. We can help talk you through all the options available to you depending on the state of the concrete. We can stain the concrete, disguise cracks and patch any deteriorated areas. There are so many options available, we can walk you through the entire process. We always stay within the original estimated price and on schedule (weather permitting... we live in the mountains afterall!).

Free onsite estimates for clients residing in the Kelowna area.

How often should you seal your driveway? Concrete Driveway Sealing, Yearly Maintenance, Repair - blog by the experts at MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC

Applying concrete sealers 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 your driveway?

• Everyone has something different to say about how often to seal your driveway. Some say every 3-5 years, whereas others say every year. The determining factor here should be what sort of weather or climate zone your concrete is exposed to. Environmental factors, rain, snow, freeze/thaw zones, or high sunshine areas should be taken into consideration. If your driveway is exposed to freeze/thaw zones and lots of sunshine or heat (like the weather here in the Okanagan) your driveway might require re-sealing and maintenance every other year. If you salt your driveway 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.  
• Properly maintaining your concrete saves money in the long run. Make sure you have a protective barrier on your concrete to get the maximum longevity of your investment.

Concrete services we offer for driveways, patios or concrete slabs:

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

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.  We walk you through the entire process and continuously get client referrals. 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.

Concrete Pool Deck Repair, Concrete Driveway Repair, Concrete Staining and Concrete Refinishing - by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC

This is a modern contemporary home, located in West Kelowna. Mode Concrete was asked to come onsite & fix all the cracks on this concrete architectural wall. Read on to get the full story.

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). 

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

For this client (pictured above) we were able to color match the concrete perfectly and fill all the cracks / chips.  We then applied a matte sealer on the walls, to make sure there was a protective barrier on the concrete before the homeowners moved in.

MODE CONCRETE specializes in high end decorative concrete applications, concrete sealing, concrete restoration and concrete crack repairs.  We have been trusted by many people in the Okanagan for their custom concrete needs over the years.  We only use high quality products and whether you have a concrete repair, or you want your aged concrete refinished and rejuvenated, MODE CONCRETE can help.  

We service the Okanagan and always make sure our customers love us, and refer us to their friends. If  you want to hire the best artisan concrete contractor, contact MODE CONCRETE for a new level of service and customer satisfaction. Owners Gareth Tyrrell and Cindy Manchur work directly with all of our clients.

Ante Up Any Space with Contemporary Concrete Floors - overlay applied to wooden subfloor by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna, BC

Ante up any space, with a stunning concrete floor all your friends will envy.  MODE CONCRETE created this standard grey concrete floor overlay, on the main floor of this residence (on a wooden substrate). The picture below is wonderful, because you can actually see how thin the concrete floor is.  

Concrete overlay completed by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC.

Concrete floors (or overlays) are of similar thickness and weight to tile. Concrete acts as a blank canvas and any color or finish can be applied, but natural and raw is our top seller and personal fave. Our master concrete artisan and company owner, Gareth Tyrrell works on every job from beginning to end, ensuring top quality results for our clients.

Concrete overlay installed by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC.

Concrete overlay installed by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC.

Concrete overlay installed by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC.

Concrete overlay installed by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC.

There have been lots of recent product developments that challenge traditional thinking of what 'concrete' is. With traditional concrete, you would definitely need to reinforce and check the structure before any application or overlay is applied. If the concrete contractors use the latest high performance products, the concrete floor or overlay could actually be lighter than tile and usually only 3/8" thick. 

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. Seams, contraction joints, cut lines and schluter strip help curb this but if you plan on doing concrete on any flexible surface you can expect movement and natural unevenness from slab to slab. These natural imperfections all add personality to your floor. Concrete is perfectly imperfect and we love it!

Please contact us about any of the services we discuss in this blog.  Check out our website - modeconcrete.com for more pictures and additional details about our company :)

Contemporary Polished Concrete Floors Naturally Look Amazing - Simple, Dustless, Green, Safe (no VOCs), Zero Waste Process - by Mode Concrete in Kelowna BC

If you like the contemporary look and color of grey concrete floors, we usually recommend using MODE CONCRETE (of course!) so we can professionally finish your concrete floor!  We specialize in finishing concrete floors in an economical, simple, dustless, zero-waste, green, eco-friendly, natural, safe, no VOC's, non-toxic... kind of way.

Naturally finished concrete floors are 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. 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.  

 This is a commercial floor that used to have tile on the surface.  

Here is a recent commercial concrete floor that we refinished for our Kelowna client. This floor had tile on previously.  Once the tile was stripped and the concrete was cleaned up, this was the final product after our process was complete.  We love the extra variations that this floor has compared to a brand spanking new floor.  It already looks industrial and has lots of natural patinas and mottling mixed throughout the surface.

Usually this process only takes 2-3 days, depending on the size of your project.  

If you want your concrete surface stained or colored by an artisan, this timeline will increase a bit. 

Think of a concrete floor sealer as a protective layer that will improve its appearance, durability and longevity. New concrete floors should be sealed after they are completed, while existing concrete floors should be sealed every few years based on wear/tear and clients preferences.  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. 

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

How often should you seal your driveway? Concrete Driveway Sealing, Yearly Maintenance and Repair - article by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC

Applying concrete sealers are an essential part of finishing any concrete outdoors. 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.

Here is a picture of a concrete driveway we recently repaired and sealed in Kelowna BC.  

How often should you seal your driveway?

• Everyone has something different to say about how often to seal your driveway. Some say every 3-5 years, whereas others say every year. The determining factor here should be what sort of weather or climate zone your concrete is exposed to. Environmental factors, rain, snow, freeze/thaw zones, or high sunshine areas should be taken into consideration. If your driveway is exposed to freeze/thaw zones and lots of sunshine or heat (like the weather here in the Okanagan) your driveway might require re-sealing and maintenance every other year. If you salt your driveway 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.  
• Properly maintaining your concrete saves money in the long run. Make sure you have a protective barrier on your concrete to get the maximum longevity of your investment.

Here is a picture of a concrete driveway we recently repaired and sealed in Kelowna BC.  

 

Concrete services we offer for driveways, patios or concrete slabs:

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

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.  We walk you through the entire process and continuously get client referrals. 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 only use the best skill and best products available on the market.

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

Contemporary, Modern Polished Concrete Floor Screams Style - by MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna, BC

Concrete shakes off its cold reputation by combining brilliant innovations, cutting edge applications and new techniques.  Concrete works perfectly in residential, commercial, industrial, indoor, or outdoor applications.  So totally versatile.  

Concrete floors work in any room of the house, not just in the basement.  More and more clients are opting for concrete.  Concrete lovers want their space to scream style in a subtle, understated, elegant sort-of-way. And if you’re worried about it looking too industrial, you can easily soften it with punches of color, rugs, textiles and by mixing in warmer materials like wood planks. 

Here is a recent commercial concrete floor that we refinished for the Kelowna client.  This floor had tile on previously.  Once the tile was stripped and the concrete was cleaned up, this was the final product after our process was complete.  We love the extra variations that this floor has compared to a brand spanking new floor.  It already looks industrial and has lots of natural patinas and mottling mixed throughout the surface. 

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.

Concrete Flooring Benefits:

• STYLISH - Undeniably gorgeous, original, one of kind and a piece of art. 
• LONGEVITY - Excellent longevity of investment when compared to other materials available on the market.  If done right, concrete will outlive you.
• 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. 
• 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).

Contact MODE CONCRETE for more details about any services we discuss in our blog.  Did you know we only operate of referrals and recommendations?  We make sure our past clients are always happy, research it... we dare you.

Concrete Driveway Pros and Cons - by Mode Concrete in Kelowna BC

Concrete has been a popular choice for driveways and architecture throughout history, for excellent reason. Concrete is durable, requires little maintenance, gives great longevity and is easily repaired. Not only do concrete driveways provide great curb appeal, a properly installed concrete driveway can last 20 years longer than other materials, with minimal maintenance or repair costs.

Concrete Driveway Basics

• Cost: Concrete is more expensive than gravel and asphalt driveways, but is less expensive than pavers or natural stone (like brick or cobblestone).  On average, $5 to $10 per square foot, depending on site conditions and preparation.  Extras that can be added on; various finishes, colored concrete, staining, sealing, pattern cutting, seams. 
• Durability: 25-50 years or longer with proper care and installation.
• Maintenance: Sweeping and pressure washing when needed. Chemicals may be needed to remove stains, oil or tire marks. Sealing is usually required every few years. 
• Additional options: Driveways may be stained different colors, personalized or poured into any pattern you desire.  Do you want a fancy exposed concrete surface, a stamped concrete surface, or budget-friendly broom finished?  Circles, squares, cut lines, seaming and tiles, planters, retaining walls, or any customization can be designed to compliment the design and functionality of your driveway.  

Concrete Driveway Pros

• Durable.
• Requires little maintenance.
• Gives great longevity and has a longer life than other driveway options.
• Concrete is easily repaired.
• Looks amazing.
• Unlimited color options.
• Snow removal is easy on concrete.
• Anti slip additives can be added onto surfaces.

Concrete Driveway Cons

• Initial cost is more than other options, but your get more longevity out of your investment.
• Requires yearly maintenance, in most climates.  
• As you consider concrete driveways costs, factor in the cost of sealing it every 1-3 years.

Concrete Driveway Repair and Maintenance 

• To extend the life of concrete, you’ll want to keep it well-maintained. The first thing to do is to have it sealed after your concrete driveway is poured, usually within the first month or two after it is fully cured. Concrete sealer cost is not cheap but this final stage will vastly improve the durability of the driveway. Expect to pay $0.50 to $0.85 per square foot for one application or coating of sealer (which usually includes the cost of pressure washing the surface).  Anti slip additives or repairing chips and cracks can increase this cost a little. 
• Sealers will keep your concrete protected from moisture and protect any tiny cracks. Without a protective sealer, moisture will penetrate the cracks and freeze in very cold weather which may increase the size of any cracks or chips.
• You may want to seal your driveway annually if your driveway is exposed to lots of moisture or freeze and thaw conditions to maintain the protective barrier of sealer between the elements and your concrete surface.  
• Not all driveway sealers are alike (even those in the same product category), and no driveway sealer will last forever. Depending on the type of products used and exposure conditions, a sealer should last anywhere from 1 to 3 years. 
• If you have a sealer buildup on the surface from multiple sealer applications over the years, stripping the sealers may be required periodically.  We would recommend stripping your concrete if your sealer is flaking in spots, holes are developing, you have a cloudy appearance throughout the sealer, there are dull spots, blistering or bubbles.  The best way to assess any of these symptoms, is to call a concrete sealing professional in your area to come check out the situation in person.  Stripping sealers is a messy process and can either be done chemically or mechanically.  
• Be careful with concrete driveway salt, this may create a chemical reaction and eat away at your sealers and stains.  Read the labels of any products you use, or reapply sealers every year if you are using driveway salt regularly.  
• 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.  A concrete professional can help talk you through all the options available to you depending on the state of the concrete and your budget.

When you hire Mode Concrete, you hire a professional contractor that always stays on budget and on schedule!  From the moment you hire Mode Concrete, you'll notice why our clients give us amazing referrals and recommendations, every time.  Contact us today for more information about our services. 

References:

• Concrete Driveways: Poring Over the Pros and Cons - Houzz http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/2459366/list/Concrete-Driveways--Poring-Over-the-Pros-and-Cons
• 2012 Concrete Driveway Cost Guide for Repair or Replacement - Driveway Guide http://www.drivewayguide.com/guides/cost-of-concrete-driveway-repairs-and-replacement/
• Pros and Cons of a Concrete Driveway - About.com http://garages.about.com/od/buildingagarage/a/Pros-And-Cons-Of-A-Concrete-Driveway.htm

Acid Stain your Concrete Block Retaining Wall - article by concrete staining & sealing specialists at MODE CONCRETE in Kelowna BC

Punch some style into your boring concrete, by staining it!

A concrete retaining wall is an important, functional element in any outdoor living space, especially on your driveway or in your backyard.  Concrete left unfinished however, can be plain, boring and totally yawn worthy.  At the very least, you should seal your concrete to protect it from the elements and give it a little luster.  If your concrete surface needs more style consider staining your concrete.  An experienced concrete staining specialist will have a multitude of stains, colors and finishes to choose from.  

Before                                              After

 Before                                               After

After the stain has been applied, we always recommend sealing your concrete to further protect and enhance the concrete's appearance of the stained finish.  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.

Here is the plain concrete block (left), next to a stained concrete block (right).  

If you want to hire a professional high-quality concrete company that will stand behind their work and their reputation - contact MODE CONCRETE today.  We provide free onsite consultations to inquiring clients, a written estimate and unparalleled customer service... we continuously surpass our clients expectations every time!

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

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

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

Properly maintaining, sealing, repairing, and protecting your concrete will increase the longevity of your concrete and resale value of your home.  Many times when new or existing concrete cracks or needs a repair, our clients are discouraged because they aren't aware of the many options available.  They usually assume the worst, and think that replacing the concrete is the best option.  Concrete naturally shifts, moves and cracks with environmental changes and with age.  Easily repaired, patched, or filled, these cracks are usually only cosmetic and not structural or unsafe (but every project is different). 

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

MODE CONCRETE specializes in high end decorative concrete applications, concrete sealing, concrete restoration and concrete repairs.  We have been trusted by many people in the Okanagan for their custom concrete needs over the years.  We only use high quality products and whether you have a concrete repair, or you want your aged concrete refinished and rejuvenated, MODE CONCRETE provides only the highest level of service to our customers.

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

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

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 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.