Hawaii Renovation Apr 15 2012 by Oahu Publications, Inc

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APRIL 15, 2012

With its own Kahala Floors brand of engineered wood, developed by company owner and president Shirley Pai Hilton, Pacific Imports International offers homeowners an outstanding selection of high-quality flooring that’s oh-so-nice to step on. See page 3

INSIDE:

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HAWAIIRENOVATION AFTER

BUDGET RENOVATION DELIVERS RICH RESULTS

ike and MaryAnne recently upgraded to a larger home. They’re excited to have more space for themselves and their two kids. Plus, they both come from extensive families and love to entertain big groups. But the couple was running into trouble accommodating everyone in their combination living room-dining room, a space that lacked both personality and functionality. To provide enough seating for family dinners, tables had to be dragged in from elsewhere in the

house to supplement the main dining table. Chairs had to be scrounged up from every room in the house. The result? No matter what was on their dinner menu, Mike and Mary-Anne’s main course was always frustration. Change was sorely needed, but the homeowners’ budget was extremely tight. The good news was

that their living /dining room had a lot of potential, and even with a limited budget, I knew it was possible to create a functional and beautiful space. We began by ripping out the wall-to-wall broadloom and replacing it with tongue-and-groove hardwood. To give the plain ceiling in the dining room some pizzazz, we installed a T-bar framework and then fitted each square with white-coffered gypsum tile inserts.

Recessed lighting was added to the ceiling to brighten up the space. The cost was minimal, but the effect is classy and rich-looking. It just goes to show that your basement ceiling can be updated the same way, for a small investment. In addition to the ceiling lights, we added two sconces and a classic chandelier in the dining room, along with table lamps behind the sectional sofa. The lighting fixtures in this room combine to brighten the space while providing the ability to dim it down when a more dramatic effect is needed. My plan called for drapery panels to run the length of the dining-room wall, but we couldn’t afford designer fabric. So, to create the illusion of custom draperies, we purchased plain ready-made panels off the shelf. Then we bought just enough gorgeous, rich-looking fabric to edge those panels. The effect was amazing — and we repeated the same treatment on the living-room window. Family is important to Mike and Mary-Anne, so we used an easy-to-hang photo wall kit to showcase some of their favorite pictures. Framed in a combination of silver and white, the photos — each one an individual SEE PAGE 7

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COVERSTORY

The finest in WOOD FLOORING P acific Imports International (PII) is recognized by many local homeowners as the go-to source for quality wood flooring in Hawaii. Starting up more than a decade ago in the airportindustrial area, strictly as a wholesaler, this kamaaina family-owned business decided to shed its dusty warehouse marketing genre a few years ago and relocate to the Kalihi home improvement corridor. Located on Kohou Street along the Kapalama Canal, the current location houses both the company’s large distribution warehouse and a 3,000-square-foot air conditioned showroom. “It was just awful sometimes!” laughs owner and president Shirley Pai Hilton, recalling customers and herself perspiring and getting grimy in the old warehouse setting, standing around and trying to make a rational decision about what color of wood flooring to get. “It also took a lot of imagination to visualize the little sample board that was hanging 12 feet up on the wall, on a larger scale and horizontal,” says Hilton. She was working for the old owners as general manager at the time, and more than five years ago, she and her family officially purchased the company. Her main goal was to make Pacific Imports the best wood-flooring company in Hawaii, and that included making the viewing and purchasing experience a more pleasurable one. Things have gone well beyond that initial hope of air conditioned comfort!

Besides being able to see a large flooring sample on the ground, customers can sit down and relax with their sales associate to discuss options. They also can take home swatches and check out sample boards to view at home. Customers are welcome to take photographs of floors and help themselves to printed product and installation information. Shortly after moving to their showroom, Hilton also initiated the Wood and Stone Flooring 101 seminars, which now boast hundreds of graduates! “I can’t tell you how gratifying it is to have the customers come up to me after the seminar and heartily shake my hand to tell me how much they enjoyed the presentation,” she says. Hilton was hesitant about the seminars at first, not wanting them to be perceived as a big sales pitch, and not wanting to waste anyone’s precious Saturday morning. Happily, the seminars have turned out to be the cornerstone of PII’s exceptional customer service, backed by its knowledgeable and friendly sales and warehouse staff. But at the heart of Pacific Imports’ business is its high-quality wood flooring products. A direct importer from day one, Pacific Imports is one of the few Hawaii flooring companies that actually has employees overseas. This is a key advantage for the customer when shopping around for a new wood floor. Many Honolulu retailers are buying their flooring from a distributor, such as Pacific Imports,

PACIFICIMPORTS INTERNATIONAL ADDRESS: 926 KOHOU ST. CONTACT: 847-7711

and the middleman is reflected in their pricing. “The only people here that have to make money (are) us and the factory, and if you stop to compare quality and price, you will see what a phenomenal value we offer by being factory-direct,” Hilton adds. The Kahala Floors brand of engineered wood flooring has especially been an overwhelming success for Pacific Imports since its introduction in 2007. Consisting of a top-wear layer of wood mounted onto a plywood base for stability, this lifetime product can be sanded and refinished several times over, making it a lifetime product. Hilton says that engineered wood flooring has been “the product of choice” for quite some time now and sees no end to it, noting that this is not a style trend but

a permanent innovation. “I personally developed the Kahala Floors product line because I saw a need in Hawaii for a high-quality engineered wood floor that is made especially for our unique climate, lifestyle and decorating style,” says Hilton. She believes it would be a challenge to find anything of higher quality for a better price in Hawaii. Hilton would like to personally invite everyone to visit the company’s showroom soon, or even attend their next Wood and Stone Flooring 101 seminar on Saturday, April 21 at 10:30 a.m. Whether you are considering a new floor or just enjoy learning, the seminar will offer a wealth of valuable information on product choices and installation. Call 847-7711 to reserve a seat. APRIL 15, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 3

HAWAIIRENOVATION FREE SEMINAR

MINIMIZING THE RISK OF ELECTRICAL FIRES

omeowners should be aware of things they can do to minimize, if not prevent, home fires. Here are a few items to consider:

Saturday May 5 at 9 a.m.

The age of your home

Loose outlets Check for any loose plugs or outlets. Older or frequently used outlets can lose their grip over time. A loose outlet will barely hold the plug in place, and a loose connection can cause arcing, which can lead to a fire.

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Excessive use of power strips, extension cords, splitters Extension cords are designed for temporary use; they usually have a smaller gauge wire and are not rated for longterm use. An extension cord increases the amount of connection points: one being at the cord-to-outlet end and the second being the cord-to-equipment end. Increasing the connection points will increase the risk for failure or fire if they are used as a longterm electrical solution in your home. Never connect or use power strips in conjuction with another power strip for additional outlet space. This places an excessive load on the one outlet that is expected to power both strips. Although most power strips claim to be surge protectors, they are not fail proof. The same concept applies to splitter/ outlet adapters, but the risk is greater because there is no mechanism that allows the outlet to trip from an electrical

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surge or malfunction.

GFCI-protected outlets A GFCI, or ground fault circuit interrupter-protected outlet, is an electrical device that is placed on certain outlets considered to be in hazardous areas such as near a water source (kitchen sink, bathroom) or outdoors. The device disconnects a

circuit whenever there is an electrical imbalance or surge. This stops the flow of electricity to the outlet and whatever it is powering until it is reset.

Frequently tripping circuit breakers If you find yourself constantly needing to reset a circuit breaker when you use certain appliances or equipment in the house simultaneously, you have an overload.

For most homes that are 30 to 40 years old or older, we recommend an upgrade and rewire. Constantly tripping breakers could be a sign of inadequate power supply to your home. An upgrade will increase your incoming power, allowing you to have adequate power for all your needs. New wire with a ground wire will be run throughout the house, replacing the old deteriorating wire. The ground wire will redirect the short circuit or current to go directly into the ground. All G Electric can help assess your need for an electrical rewire and potential electrical hazards. With a proven track record of quality workmanship and extensive electrical knowledge, you feel confident knowing you have chosen the right company for your job. The company now offers the expertise of a roofing specialist, Murakami’s Roofing, to give you a more complete solution for your photovoltaic needs. Call today for a free photovoltaic estimate.

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A PARADE OF NEW LEADERS BY KAREN NAKAMURA

he Building Industry Association of Hawaii (BIAHawaii) will present the 56th annual Parade of Homes during the open house weekends of Oct. 67 and Oct. 13-14. This premier, statewide showcase of new homes in Hawaii will educate consumers on the latest trends, technology and design innovations in residential construction. The 2012 theme is “2012 Parade of Homes, A New Home Revolution” and the steering committee chairman is McKibbin Mist of Purchasing & Contracts Manager, Gentry Builders. The 2012 BIA-Hawaii

Sales co-chairs

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2012 BIA Parade of Homes Steering Committee Chair McKibbin Mist

• Rick Hobson, Gentry Homes Ltd.

Golf co-chairs president is Dean Asahina of Universal Construction Inc. The following is a list of this year’s co-chairs:

• Todd Niizawa, Central Pacific HomeLoans • Gary Okimoto, Honolulu Wood Treating

Jay

Gala and silent auction co-chairs • Brooke Kaneshiro Peters, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage • Carol Marx, Bank of Hawaii • Laurie Lee, Pacific Island Realty LLC Chartered in 1955, the Building Industry Association of Hawaii is a professional trade organization affiliated with the National Association of Home Builders, representing the building industry and its associates. The 500 members of BIA-Hawaii are develop-

BIA-HAWAII REMODELERS ers, contractors, suppliers, Realtors, architects, financial institutions and a host of other professionals who serve the building industry. BIAHawaii takes a leadership role in unifying and promoting the interests of the industry to enhance

the quality of life for the people of Hawaii. For more information, visit www.bia-hawaii.org. Karen Nakamura is executive vice president /CEO of the Building Industry Association of Hawaii.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

‘GOLDEN’ IDEAS TO SOLVE LACK OF STORAGE SPACE BY KYLE GALDEIRA

GOLDEN

hen it comes to applying the vast array of options available at Golden Cabinets, imagination plays an integral role in the process. Design consultant LauraJon “LJ” Cornel works with customers to accommodate their storage needs because, as she puts it, “everyone in Hawaii needs more storage space.” Cornel offers a host of helpful tips for incorporating cabinetry throughout the home, including installing the quality products Golden Cabinets offers in a walk-in closet. For instance, Cornel suggests adding drawer cabinets for clothing storage, and integrating open shelving to match the

CABINETS CONTACT: 836-8181 • 2959 KOAPAKA ST. • www.gcgchi.com clients’ needs, including storage of shoes and other accessories. Cabinetry can also go a long way to improve the storage capacity and aesthetics of a bathroom. As Cornel suggests, “In the bathroom if they want a sitting area, we can use a 6-inch-high drawer between cabinetry and make a nice area to sit and apply make-up, or an open space to put the clothes hamper. If they want a computer station in or near the kitchen or bedroom — or wherever they need it — we can apply

the same concept. If customers want a medicine cabinet in the bathroom, we can modify the depth of a wall cabinet and put a mirror in the center panel of the doors.” Golden Cabinets allows customers to select space-saving cabinetry — made of luxurious cherry, oak and maple — starting at 12 inches deep. For example, a homeowner could enhance storage space near the kitchen by installing a relatively shallow wall cabinet for use as a buffet station, and finish it with a countertop. Another handy tip from Cornel is to use the cabinets to create a landing area near the front door where keys and cell phones can be deposited (and easily found later!), and possibly include a window seat to enhance

the home’s entryway. A wide range of traditional cabinetry options are available through Golden Cabinets, including 30- and 40-inch wall cabinets as well as the option of including glass panels as an added artistic element. Special orders are welcome, and Cornel says that some other possibilities include modifying office areas or sprucing up a garage or lanai with various cabinets and storage elements. “It feels great when you can sell someone all-plywood construction cabinets with cherry wood doors for an extremely unbelievable price,” says Cornel. “They can upgrade their home and make it nice — they don’t have to live with particleboard cabinets that are falling apart. We can help

somebody do the projects that they may otherwise not be able to afford.” Since 2007, Golden Cabinets has gained a reputation for offering quality, affordable cabinetry to Hawaii’s consumers. According to owner Wayne Cao, Golden Cabinets plans on offering more door styles, wood species and cabinetry selections in the near future. “We truly appreciate each and every one of our clients who (has) given Golden Cabinets the opportunity

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RENOVATING ON A BUDGET FROM PAGE 2

work of art in its own right — combine to create a dramatic conversation piece along the back wall of the room. With a larger home comes a bigger mortgage, and Mike and Mary-Anne didn’t have the budget for an expensive renovation. Nevertheless, it is still really important to splurge on classic “investment pieces” that you will enjoy for years. In this case, those pieces were a custom dining table with a double-pedestal base and a spacious sectional sofa. Together, they make the room cozy and com-

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fortable. Guests are easily accommodated around the large table, complete with extension leaves. And the expansive sofa and additional seating practically beg everyone to move into the living room to relax after dinner! After we invested in those classic pieces, though, we had next to nothing left to buy accessories. The solution was to sift through the wares at local antiques and rummage shops, in search of the perfect finishing touches. A wooden magazine box, some stackable old suitcases and even old trophies were just what

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the decorator ordered. We also breathed new life into a vintage sideboard with a fresh coat of white paint and a custom stone top. The couple’s original wooden china cabinet, a marble-topped coffee table and a complementary area rug completed the transformation. Mike and Mary-Anne’s living/dining room is ready to serve up classic elegance to family and friends. It’s a warm and

inviting space sure to be the scene of many gettogethers. Best of all, we were able to provide that classic elegance on a shoestring budget, which goes to show that creativity and resourcefulness play a very important part in decorating on a dime.

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not know. You would hope to trust your contractor to make the correct decision for your benefit, to not just pass code for a quick profit. Change orders, once you sign the initial contract, are almost bound to the contractor’s desired charges. You need to trust that you will not get raked over the price. This is a formula for a successful and memorable experience that will leave you completely satisfied with your home project. Remember this is an important step for you and your family. The contractor that takes you through this journey should have your best interest at heart. As a homeowner, you don’t have the time or the experience to understand the full construction process, so be sure you get quality work at a fair price. Short of hiring outside counsel, hire a contractor you feel comfortable with, and more importantly, one you can trust!

EFFECTIVELY COMMUNICATING WITH YOUR CONTRACTOR

lear lines of communication between you and your contractor are a vital part of any home improvement project. Making sure everyone is on the same page as to the cost, timelines and any unforeseen contingencies that may occur during the course of construction is a sure formula for a satisfying experience. This ensures that you receive a completed project on time and on budget. You may do all your due diligence when selecting a contractor for your new home improvement project and still miss one of the most important aspects. How are the communication skills and relationship you have with your contractor? Trust that

ATLASCONSTRUCTIONINC. ADDRESS: 1513 YOUNG ST. #202 CONTACT: 951-9500 • Atlasconstruction808.com your contractor will give you a quality product for an honest price. You build a relationship during the build, after you have delivered the final payment and far after the home is complete. Trust that the contractor will not sweep a problem under the rug for you, as the owner, to deal with after the warranty period is over. It starts with your first meeting. Does the company representative have your best interest in

mind? You should be able to trust a contractor enough so that when you reveal a budget, he will maximize your house, not his profit. The initial estimate should not be misleading or vague. This number should be a consistent one as a basis to work from for your home project. This is where the discussion of a timeline to complete the project should begin. If at all possible, before building, you should be provided with a schedule that is

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iang Feng Cao got his start in the construction industry while working as a carpenter in China. He eventually opened his own business and workshop there before deciding to move to Hawaii in 2000. The skillful craftsman worked for various local companies until deciding to build his own construction team. Cao, with the help of his son, Andy, formed Hua Xia Construction in August 2008 and the duo, along with a team of experienced workers, has been assisting local home and business owners with their building and remodeling needs ever since. “In China and Japan, we can see many historic construction (projects) that were built a thousand years ago, but are still solid and workable,” says Andy Cao. “Our company would like to help our customers build or remodel their homes like that. We always provide high quality works, friendly cooperation and reasonable cost to our customers.” As he explains, Hua Xia

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receives a great deal of business via positive referrals and by prospective customers noticing other finished projects. “Most clients will see a house we’ve built or remodeled in the past as an example of our workmanship,” says Andy. “We feel confident working as a family to make our clients happy.” Hua Xia is capable of handling both commercial and residential jobs, although brand new construction of and renovations to homes have been the most popular requests as of late. Andy says that his company can accommodate various requests, from kitchen and bathroom additions to adding extra stories and rooms to existing structures and even building new houses. Hua Xia will handle the design and permitting process all the way through completion of the project, building quality

structures from the ground up — or in some cases, from the inside out.

Cao and his staff stress customer service every step of the way. Hua Xia provides home-

owners with detailed models to aid in the visualization process, and will work to incorporate materials that are both costeffective and of the highest quality. From minor renovations to multi-million dollar projects from scratch, Hua Xia is poised to handle the task. “We provide customers with a 3-D layout of their project so they can visualize what their home will look like,” Andy says. “Customers appreciate the quality of work that we provide, and a reasonable estimate beforehand that is usually met upon the completion of the job.” For more information, call Hua Xia Construction at 6361888, or visit the website www.HuaXiaConstructor.com.

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Keep shower systems simple The â&#x20AC;&#x153;human car washâ&#x20AC;? style of shower system with lots of additional body sprays was once a big trend in luxury bathrooms. However, as interest in water conservation continues to rise along with the price of water, this style of shower â&#x20AC;&#x201D; which can use as much as 160 gallons of water for a 20minute shower â&#x20AC;&#x201D; has declined in popularity. Instead, limit your shower system to two outlets: one fixed showerhead and one hand held. A rain showerhead is a great option for fixed showerheads. An accompanying hand-held shower such as Monoglide has the force to rinse shampoo from long hair, clean shower walls or wash pets. Most important, it provides an easily accessible bathing option for older guests with limited mobility when used with a secure shower seat.

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THE ‘GREAT ROOM’ TRANSFORMATION R edesigning the closed-up, segmented interior layouts typical of most older singleADDRESS: 2111 S. BERETANIA ST. family homes in Hawaii — CONTACT: 955-2777 both for existing owners and new buyers — has become a specialty of Home- ing walls and adding new winworks Construction, an award- dows and doors. But in some cases, major structural work is winning design/build firm. “The numerous clients who involved, as well as the rerouting have hired us in recent years to of plumbing and electrical wiring. “The first step is to meet with create an open, flowing floor plan for an older home generally tell the client at the home, assess the us they want a layout that is more condition of the house and compatible with their lifestyle ... review the main objectives of the meaning, in most cases, a more remodeling project. In addition to casual lifestyle ... one that a more open, flowing interior involves integrating the kitchen environment, people often want into the main living areas,” says to find ways to take advantage of company vice president Marshall natural light and ventilation, or Hickox. “This has become known views, even if it’s only their own as ‘the great room’ concept, and garden, or better access to their yard — this can often be accomit’s a strong trend in Hawaii.” He noted that reconfiguring plished with a few well-placed large portions of a home and sliding glass doors. ” The focal point of a “great opening it up can be just a matter of removing a few non-load bear- room” is generally the kitchen,

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although a family/media room is often a major component of the reconfiguration of the space. A recent project, major renovations of a 24-year-old Hawaii Loa Ridge custom home, called for all new kitchen and baths, including floors, doors, windows and cabinets. A ground floor master bedroom suite and study extending out to the pool deck were added. “When an all-new kitchen is involved, our in-house kitchen and bath designer Sean Bradshaw takes over and works with the client on the many details and choices involved. These can cover a wide price range, so we

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up to create a great room, which involved demolishing the original kitchen. The new, enlarged kitchen includes a large custom, center work-station/island, a feature rarely found in older homes. Photos and more information will be available at Homeworks booth #143 at the Home, Garden and Remodeling Show at Blaisdell Center Exhibition Hall April 27-29. For a free consultation, call 955-2777. A free Build New Or ReDo Seminar will be presented May 8, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Homeworks Showroom. For reservations, call 955-2777.

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work with the client to come up with the best selections given the budget. When the objective is creation of a ‘great room,’ the client will designate the new dining area ... a dining counter is almost always integrated into the new design. The counter not only serves for casual dining but also as a serving area and divider between the kitchen and the rest of the ‘great room.’” At a 30-year-old home in Mililani Town, Homeworks expanded what had been a 2,000-squarefoot home to 3,200 interior square feet. The main living area on the ground floor was opened

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hotovoltaics is creating ALTERNATIVEELECTRIC quite a buzz among Hawaii homeowners. Also known as PV, photoCONTACT: 630-6741 • 285-8663 voltaics is a form of solar energy. “But instead of heating your suitable system. water, it actually produces electricity,” explains Chad Matsumoto, who Tax credits Although the initial cost for PV is co-owns Alternative Electric with high, many people may overlook the Bronson Apana. Although the upfront costs may tax credits. State and federal solar be high, there are many benefits that energy income tax credits can reimmake PV a wise overall investment, burse up to 65 percent of the cost of and Matsumoto offers these exam- a solar system. ples:

Lower monthly electric bill This may be the most recognizable benefit. Alternative Electric offers free consultations and estimates on how many PV panels are needed. A company representative visits a home and looks at its roof design, electrical set up, electrical consumption and a homeowner’s budget before recommending a

Preserves natural environment and improves air quality Hawaii’s electricity is mainly generated from fossil fuels. By producing electricity with a PV system, Hawaii can decrease oil demand and green house gas emissions.

Investment purposes A PV system is one of the best investments a homeowner can make. After tax credits, the payback

on a PV system is approximately six to eight years, and maybe even sooner as the cost of electricity rises. After the system pays for itself, a homeowner can enjoy 17-19 years of virtually maintenance-free electric production. A PV system also increases the value of a home. It increases equity and it’s a hot seller, according to some Realtors. Alternative Electric designs, installs and maintains solar photovoltaic systems. “We take care of all phases of PV installations, so homeowners get the best quality materials, design and workmanship,” says Matsumoto. “We are also a full-service electrical contractor offering residential and commercial electrical services as well as photovoltaics.”

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

BUILDINGS GO ‘GREEN’ WITH NANOTECHNOLOGY

reen homes and buildings are designed to reduce their impact on human health and the natural environment. Some of the ways this is accomplished is by the efficient use of energy, water and other resources and the reduction of waste, pollution and environmental degradation. Since most of our homes and buildings are older — built before “green” construction methods were in use — we need help from technology, nanotechnology to be exact. Nano Tek-On uses nanotechnology, hence it’s name, to maintain our natural environment and have minimum impact on our health. For example, the company’s surface sealers contain no harmful chemicals, yet kill bacteria, viruses, odors, mold, mildew and allergens. A big plus is their ability to make cleanup quick and easy. Nano Tek-On also provides efficient use of energy and water,

Eliminate the problem of scaling and corrosion with HydroFlow and reduces water waste and environmental degradation with its miracle water conditioner: HydroFlow. One of the features of HydroFlow is that it uses no salt. Harald von Sydow, director of Nano Tek-On, tells us that sometimes even new buildings aren’t as green as originally thought. There have been recent news stories of condos in Honolulu that have had plumbing problems due to corrosion. Corrosion and scaling are major concerns in all homes and buildings in

Hawaii. And, any plumbing that uses brass, stainless steel or any material with high-zinc content that is not treated will accumulate lime scale. This leads to corrosion and can lead to line breaks. That’s why Nano Tek-On suggests using its little green HydroFlow. When a HydroFlow unit is installed (easy to do it yourself or Nano Tek-On will install it for you), randomly varying electric fields are introduced into the water throughout the entire plumbing system, breaking up the corrosion and lime-scale precipitates. The suspended particles wash away in the flow. The treated water normally dissolves existing scale in just a few months. HydroFlow also reduces algae and bacteria in swimming pools, solar systems, appliances and hot water heaters. Von Sydow emphasizes that HydroFlow can be installed on any kind of pipe, including plas-

Would you rather have a trickle of water or a full flow?

NANOTEK-ON CONTACT: 395-2996 • www.nanotekhi.com tic and lead. It does not change the chemical composition of the water and contrary to water softeners, HydroFlow leaves the water safe and tastily drinkable. HydroFlow is consistently effective, reliable and maintenancefree. It pays for itself quickly in energy and water savings. HydroFlow technology slows down corrosion by up to 50 percent, extending the lifespan of existing corroded parts. HydroFlow technology also can reverse lime-scale buildup and eliminate it. This increases the efficiency of water heaters by removing the scale that builds up over the electric elements,

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reducing faucet leaks and extending the lifespan of waterusing appliances. For a fraction of the cost of installing new plumbing, Nano Tek-On can install a HydroFlow unit in your condo, home or commercial building. And, if you’d like to do it yourself, von Sydow will be happy to show you how. Nano Tek-On specializes in environmentally friendly surface treatments, including sealants for glass and natural stone, antimicrobial coatings and selfcleaning surfaces. To learn more about making your home “green,” call 395-2996 or visit nanotekhi.com.

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‘DECO’-RATE YOUR WALLS WITH A STYLISH COAT OF PAINT

eco Painting Hawaii offers residential and commercial interior and exterior painting, as well as wood staining and a variety of faux-finishing services. But the services don’t end there. Our sister company, Aloha Interior Design & Remodeling, takes upgrading your home to new levels — offering wallpapering, venetian plastering and mosaic tiling services as well. Our motto is “dream the

unthinkable, build the unimaginable.” This can be seen firsthand in our owner’s personal residence, where a few colors on the palette are enhanced by contrasting textures and accent colors. Deco Painting uses a special technique that eliminates cutting in and therefore eliminates those ugly brush lines around doors, windows and trim. We pay attention to details and know that proper prep work is

DECOPAINTINGHAWAII CONTACT: 225-8007 • www.decopaintinghawaii.com the key to quality workmanship. Unless otherwise instructed, all light switch and plug faceplates are removed; doors are removed, prepped and sprayed before being replaced; blinds, brackets, fixtures and screens are removed and cleaned before being

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Deco Painting also is doing a “Spring Cleaning Special” for full interiors priced at $2,012 (plus cost of paint and tape) for five or more areas (i.e. kitchen, hallway, etc.). Call us to schedule a consultation with a free written estimate.

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replaced. We do this because we know that it doesn’t make sense to put old, dirty items back onto clean, fresh walls. Again, we pay attention to details. All work is performed by and/or supervised by the owners to meet the highest standards of quality. Our service is not just about the application of materials, excellent customer service is promised from first contact throughout the completion of the project. All materials and workmanship are completely guaranteed. Deco Painting never charges a consultation fee, and no project is ever considered too small. The staff members at Deco Painting are professionals in their business.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

LIGHTING THE WAY T

he state of Hawaii has set a lofty goal to reduce the state’s energy consumption by 30 percent. Many residents have taken steps and have contributed to reaching this goal by adding PV systems to their homes. However, that is not the only way to reduce energy consumption. LED Lighting is another viable option to reduce Hawaii’s dependency on foreign oil. These “Light Emitting Diodes” can produce light as bright as day, while consuming a fraction of the power, and Hawaii Home Expo has found the highest-quality LED product available. BetaLEDs, from Ruud Lighting, are by far the best LEDs on the market. While many other LED products have a life of 50,000 hours, the BetaLEDs have a life of 150,000 hours. The optics have 22 different positions, so there are more than 20,000 different alignments for these products. This means that the fixture is designed so that the light is delivered exactly where it is needed. These are a perfect solution for security lights and for the garage. Based on the BetaLED’s life, a security light that is on for 10 hours every night, will last for more than 40

HAWAIIHOMEEXPO ADDRESS: 2933 KOAPAKA ST. CONTACT: 695-3976 • www.hawaiihomeexpo.com years and will use less than half the power of a typical halogen flood light. While it is imperative for residents to do their part to reduce overall energy consumption, the state also can help itself in achieving this goal. BetaLEDs can be used for street lighting, parking garages and even at the airport. Not only would the overall energy consumption be reduced, but more uniform, better lighting would be provided, making our streets safer. In addition to saving costs on electrical consumption, the state also would save money on the cost of replacement lamps as well as maintenance for the 30-plus years of service from BetaLEDs. To learn more about this amazing product, please call Hawaii Home Expo, your one-stop home center at 695-3976 (EXPO), or visit the showroom at 2933 Koapaka St.

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HAS YOUR BATHTUB LOST ITS LUSTER? GETTING THE SHINE BACK WITH TUB REFINISHES

efinishing bathtubs instead of replacing them is a relatively cost-effective bathroom makeover alternative. The total estimated cost for a bathtub replacement is $3,000 or more. Refinishing bathtubs is just a fraction of that cost, and you can save up to 75 percent of a replacement cost. Reglazing benefits all homeowners, apartment complex and hotel managers and other property managers by saving them money and time. With this option, they can give a damaged and dirty bathtub a brand new look and color. With refinishing, bathtub chips and cracks are repaired to give a new look and feel to the bathtub. You also can choose any color for your bathtub. If you do not like the color scheme of your bathroom, you can change the color of your bathtub according to your preference. Bathtubs come in all materials and age in different ways. Al’s Bathtub Refinishing’s staff has experts in worn surfaces

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REFINISHING CONTACT: 679-8297 • Alsbathtubrefinishing.com on bathtubs, tile, fiberglass showers, cultured marble and countertops. On a tight budget, Al’s Bathtub Refinishing can do spot repairs on rusty old tubs, cracked fiberglass or tubs, even chip repairs on brand-new tubs. With 20 years of experience in Hawaii, Al’s Bathtub Refinishing can do it all.

The refinishing process involves removing all the old caulking, thoroughly cleaning the surface to be refinished with a cleaning solution and then using etching solution to maximize the bonding process. Next, the surface and surrounding area is dried. Chips or any other imperfections that the surface might have are filled. Next, the walls, floors and any fixtures are masked off. The bathtub is wiped with solvents to remove any con-

taminants. Next, a primer is applied to the surface to create the best possible surface for the topcoat. Finally, a high-gloss acrylic urethane topcoat is applied to provide a durable, long-lasting finish to your surface. Al’s Bathtub Refinishing also offers Stone-Flecks, imitation stone finishes in a palette of colors for countertops and showers. Contact Al at Al’s Bathtub Refinishing for a free estimate by calling 279-8297, emailing als bathtubrefinishing@gmail.com or visiting www.alsbathtubrefin ishing.com.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

INTERIOR DESIGN TRENDS EASY SEASONAL CHANGES REFRESH AND REVIVE YOUR HOME S

pring’s new growth provides inspiration for renewal in our lives. Homeowners should embrace this same mindset — one where you favor breezy fabrics and fun decor that inspires a fresh feeling in your house. Here are the top trends in interior decorating that capture the optimistic feeling of springtime, without having to spend a lot of time or money:

2. Mix in light and fresh decor Making small changes to your home’s decor is a great way to refresh the interior, and you don’t have to spend a ton of money. Window treatments are a great place to start — replace dense fabrics with airy options that beg to blow in the warm breeze. Next, store away existing rugs and

1. Color your world happy To uplift your mood and give your home a new personality, color should be the first thing you address. Paint is an easy and affordable way to dramatically change a living space. Spring’s hot color palette includes rich hues of blue and turquoise, vibrant pink and orange tones and soft greens and neutrals. Visit your local Lowe’s for inspiration from the paint color studio. Feeling adventurous? Dabble in some vibrant shades inspired by the flora and fauna in your region. Love the bright red of blooming tulips? How about the rich blue of the sky? Pick one thing and paint it that bold color — a single wall, a door, or even a piece of furniture. Watch as the entire room suddenly comes to life. Serving the Hawaiian Islands Since 2003

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replace with ones that feature bright colors or botanical designs. Dark accent pillows can be replaced with fluffy, colorful options that add life to dated couches and chairs. Seasonal decor changes are simple and can be swapped out year after year.

3. Bring the feeling of “green” indoors Houseplants are a great tool for awakening that sense of nature and bringing the outdoors inside. Houseplants make any room look more luxurious, and they are natural air cleaners, awakening the senses of spring’s fresh air. Good, lowmaintenance indoor houseplants include the peace lily, spider plant and snake plant. Interior decor also can reflect the natural feeling that indoor plants provide. Coordinate pieces that feature nature’s elements, such as a leaf motif on a lamp shade or a beach scene on a piece of wall art.

4. Cut the clutter Of course any home refresh is not complete without some cleaning. Don’t let spring cleaning overwhelm you —

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start small and go through any clutter, sorting into piles to use, store, give away and throw away. A good dusting goes a long way too, so be sure to hit all the surfaces with a damp cloth. Shine up mirrors, which will reflect that beautiful spring sunshine to brighten and enlarge the feeling of the room.

Changing your home to reflect the seasons is easy with a few basic steps and a little creativity. Remember to embrace the feeling of spring, and the inspiration will come naturally.

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*Manufacturer’s rebate and upgrade offers valid for qualifying purchases made 4/3/2012 – 6/17/2012. A qualifying purchase is defined as a purchase of any of the product models set forth above in the quantities set forth above. If you purchase less than the specified quantity, you will not be entitled to a rebate. Rebate offers may not be combined. All rebates will be issued in U.S. dollars, in the form of an American Express® Prepaid Reward Card. © 2012 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of their respective owners.

Exp. 4/30/12

Email: sales@ohanabuildingsupply.com LIC. #ABC-19 18 | HAWAII RENOVATION | APRIL 15, 2012

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2815 Kaihikapu Street Honolulu, HI 96819 Ph: 808.833.8338 Fax: 808.833.8339

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

HOW TO KEEP SWARMING

TERMITES AWAY T ermites in Hawaii can swarm during any of the warm months, but April really marks the beginning of the annual termite-swarming season. Clouds of swarming winged reproductives are attracted to lights on warm, humid and still evenings. These swarmers are often confused with winged ants and don’t reveal their true identity until damage caused by their infestation is discovered. All termite swarmers are attracted by light around buildings; once they land, they break off their wings, find a partner and suitable site and begin a new colony. Frequently, drywood termites are brought into a building by introducing an infested piece of furniture. Ground termites typically build their nests in the ground, while foragers make underground tunnels or above-ground shelter tubes to seek out new food sources and connect to the food. Although they have large swarms, they often enter buildings through cracks as small as 1/32-inch. They frequently enter through cracks and expansion joints in slabs, foam insulation, hollow block walls and spaces

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CONTACT: 456-7716 • www.sandwichisle.com around plumbing pipes. Termites feed on cellulose, a complex chemical in plant cell walls, and they are very important in the natural decomposition of fallen trees, leaves and other plant life in nature. Left unchecked, however, an infested structure may have multiple colonies of termites infesting it and consuming wood at an alarming rate.

How can you tell if you have a termite infestation? The most common sign is finding piles of wood pellets that are kicked out of infested wood. Also, look for pencil-sized mud tubes running across concrete between the soil and any wooden part of your building.

Thin, small, papery wings about 1/2-inch long on your windowsills or floors may be visible as well. Look for thin, “bubbled” or distorted areas of paint on wooden surfaces, especially if they have a damp, musty odor. Sandwich Isle recommends that every house be inspected by a professional inspector at least annually.

Choosing the correct option Options include ground treatment or

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Sandwich Isle Pest Solutions provides free estimates and is recognized as the expert in termite and pest management in Hawaii. Starting as a oneman operation in 1997, Sandwich Isle has grown to become the largest privately owned pest management company in Hawaii, with 81 employees servicing more than 30,000 customers on Oahu.

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BACKPAGECOVERSTORY ing on core items — solar technology, installation methods, customer service and financing programs — we continue to demonstrate our commitment to Hawaii homeowners interested in solar electricity.” RevoluSun also received a 94percent client-satisfaction rating from a SunPower survey of residential clients.

Commit to green energy

GAINING

FOR SOLAR SERVICES W ith Earth Day a week away, RevoluSun is sparking an energy revolution right here in Hawaii, as it helps local families harness the power of the sun to make affordable, clean, renewable electricity on their own rooftops. And that’s not all. Last month, RevoluSun received the Residential National Top Producer of the Year from SunPower Corp., the world’s foremost manufacturer of highperformance solar technology during the SunPower Regional Dealer Conferences in Richmond, Calif. RevoluSun, a SunPower Elite Dealer, beat out not just other Hawaii SunPower dealers, but more than 400 other solar firms nationwide to receive this coveted award.

“The SunPower Dealer Network is an elite group of solar contractors,” said Eric Carlson, RevoluSun principal. “To be at the top of this list is no easy feat. We are extremely proud of our team’s dedication to providing the very best of solar products and installation methods to Hawaii homeowners. Being a locally owned company and bringing this award home to Hawaii is a huge honor.”

ago in 2009. In fact, according to data from the City & County of Honolulu’s Daily Permit Bulletin for calendar year 2011, based on “contractor” data field, RevoluSun installed 951 residential solar systems, more than double that of the next closest competitor. “It has always been RevoluSun’s goal to accelerate the use of solar energy and help Hawaii move away from fossil fuels,” Carlson added. “By focus-

And with Earth Day coming up, the firm is encouraging Hawaii homeowners to “join the RevoluSun” by committing to developing clean, renewable energy on their own rooftop. The average Hawaii family will spend more than $100,000 on electricity over the next 25 years, which is the warranty life of most solar panels. Yet, Hawaii homeowners have a myriad of options available to help them produce solar electricity right away, at just a fraction of that cost. RevoluSun invites those interested in learning more about solar energy to stop by a RevoluSun solar open house, held every weekend around Oahu, or visit one of RevoluSun’s educational solar seminars.

Providing the highest quality service, technology and

design in renewable energy, RevoluSun is bringing cleaner, smarter energy to communities, one rooftop at a time. With its extensive network of alternative energy partners, a multitude of financing options and detailed knowledge of federal and state tax incentives, RevoluSun makes renewable solar energy an affordable, attractive option for both homeowners and businesses. Hawaii-owned RevoluSun offers free, understandable energy evaluations to its residential clients, which allow for customized systems based on each home’s unique energy needs. RevoluSun also provides a robust community education program aimed at educating homeowners on how solar works and what tax incentives are available through its free solar education series and solar open house programs. For commercial and government projects, RevoluSun is pioneering new models in renewable energy that provide maximum value, expertise and service, while ensuring its clients structure the best possible business models to take advantage of local, renewable energy opportunities. For more information about RevoluSun, visit www. RevoluSun.com or call 7488888.

Design and installation leader RevoluSun installed 7.1 megawatts (MW) of residential solar energy in 2011, and to date has designed and installed more than 20 MW of clean, renewable energy since the company was founded just shy of three years

20 | HAWAII RENOVATION | APRIL 15, 2012

REVOLUSUN ADDRESS: 1600 Kapiolani Blvd., Ste. 1700 CONTACT: 748-8888 • www.RevoluSun.com