Hawaii Renovation Jan 22 2012 by Oahu Publications, Inc

HAWAII

HAWAIIRENOVATION.STARADVERTISER.COM

JAN. 22, 2012

Hawaii’s largest solar provider leads the industry with the state’s first installation of SunPower™ E20 series 327 solar panels. See page 3

INSIDE:

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or some, the ideal kitchen is a big, noisy place where soup bubbles on the stove and everyone assembles around a big table. But for others, the perfect kitchen is one that is completely hidden away: no unsightly stovetop grill, no coffee machine on the counter, no imposing stainless steel fridge. Creating hidden kitchens is a challenge, but it is one I recently accepted while working with my clients, Doug and Keith. The couple lives in a beautiful, historical house that they renovated in

HiddenKitchens ConcealClutter an uber-modern fashion. But, somehow their renovation hammer missed their small, pink, ‘80s-style kitchen that stood out like a sore thumb in an otherwise streamlined home. Doug and Keith wanted a seamless path from their front door right through to their outdoor patio, and that meant a kitchen that didn’t obstruct the flow. Don’t get me wrong, they still wanted

a fridge and a stove and a dishwasher — they just didn’t want to see them. For a tiny space, it would be a massive renovation. But I knew that by applying the principle of hidden design, I could serve up a delicious, contemporary kitchen that was simply out of sight! To start, I had the whole space gutted, the electricity reorganized and the plumbing rerouted. I also put down

a stunning dark hardwood floor and painted the walls in bright white. Then, since a big part of this project was to connect this tiny kitchen with the patio, I blew out the back wall and installed two huge sliding glass doors surrounded by beautiful zebrawood. This creates the illusion of not having a wall between the two spaces.

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ith the solar industry booming, scores of companies are entering the Hawaii market. Now, savvy homeowners interested in creating clean, renewable energy can meet local solar providers at the BIA Home Show Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 27 through 29, at Neal Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. Attendees will have a chance to talk-story with 12 solar providers, and learn why RevoluSun is Hawaii homeowners’ No. 1 choice when it comes to solar design, installation and service. “We’re so pleased to see that more Hawaii homeowners chose RevoluSun than any other solar provider in 2011,” said Eric Carlson, RevoluSun principal. “Although we may be the biggest, each of our homeowners receives the same personalized client service we offered when we first started RevoluSun. Being the biggest means nothing if the homeowner experience is anything less than superb. And through our installation partnership with American Piping & Boiler, jobs are completed on time and on budget, even during the busy season.” RevoluSun recently scored a 91 percent in client satisfaction following a survey of 100 homeowners who installed solar systems in the past two years. In addition, RevoluSun earned a 94 percent client satisfaction rating for

homeowners who hired RevoluSun to install solar systems using SunPower panels. “Through our relationships within the industry, and our deep knowledge of federal and state

ects. The most efficient commercially available PV panels in the world, the E20/327 panel produces more power in the same amount of space — up to double the amount of power compared to conventional systems — thereby saving homeowners significant money in equipment and installation costs.

SunPower™ E18 series 225 AC solar panel In January, RevoluSun was once again hand-picked by SunPower to offer its E18 series 225 AC solar panel. This panel is a revolutionary combination of high efficiency, high reliability and panel level DC to AC power conversion. Perfect for shady roofs or multi-hip roofs often found in Hawaii, these panels convert the energy from direct current (DC) into alternate current (AC) in the panel, eliminatprograms aimed at increasing ing the need for DC design and solar nationwide, RevoluSun the corresponding installation clients are the first to get the latest challenges for system integratechnology and benefit from new tors. This reduces installation time by 20 percent or more. programs,” Carlson said. The following is a series of Residential Feed-in Tariff firsts from RevoluSun: system Through the new feed-in tariff SunPower™ E20 series 327 (FIT) program, the utility must solar panel In December 2010, RevoluSun pay its customers a fixed price for became the first solar provider in energy produced and returned to North America to offer the the grid under the FIT program. SunPower E20 series 327 solar RevoluSun let client Kenneth panels in its residential and com- Chang of Manoa know about this mercial photovoltaic (PV) proj- program, and helped him navi-

gate the channels to design and install Oahu’s first residential FIT system. Chang now makes $1,300 a month from the system. Chang will continue to receive monthly checks for the solar electricity he sells to HECO, to the tune of nearly $320,000 over the next two decades, thanks to RevoluSun. Solar education series In 2009, RevoluSun hosted Hawaii’s first solar education series, and has continued to present these free, family-friendly solar educational seminars statewide for almost three years. Solar open house program RevoluSun offers the most robust solar open house program in Hawaii with free open houses every weekend and even some weekdays for homeowners interested in seeing a home solar system in action. Those interested in solar can get comfortable with the technology and the installation process at these events, where other Hawaii “RevoluSunaries” invite the public to see their solar system in action, and talk-story about design, the installation process and how the experience affected them. Leasing options For many homeowners, the

Kenneth Chang, Hawaii’s first homeowner to install FIT

significant upfront costs to purchase a system may make going green unrealistic. RevoluSun provides a wide range of leasing opportunities to fit each Hawaii homeowner’s needs. Through the lease, Hawaii homeowners can install a solar system for as little as $0 down. They then purchase the energy they make at a locked in rate from the leasing company, at a rate lower than what they currently pay. “As a locally owned company, we want to bring Hawaii residents the best technology, the highest-level of service and packaged in a way they can afford,” said Carlson. “We’ve started a revolution, and we want to help more Hawaii people declare their energy independence.” Find out how RevoluSun is building cleaner, smarter communities one rooftop at a time by visiting www.RevoluSun.com or calling 748-8888.

REVOLUSUN CONTACT: 748-8888 •

www.RevoluSun.com

JAN. 22, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 3

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Update your home with

ome siding in Hawaii has always been an area of high maintenance and high frustration. Sun, rain, humidity and salt are constantly combining their strengths to break down painted wood, vinyl and aluminum siding. Fortunately, modern technology has developed a new line of products that look great and are guaranteed to stay that way. Windows Hawaii is proud to distribute and install premium siding products like Craneboard. Craneboard’s revolutionary, lifetime-warranted products can update the look of your home and eliminate the

WINDOWS HAWAII CONTACT: 671-0808 •

windows-hawaii.com need to paint your home in the future. Craneboard is a high-tech acrylic product that looks and feels like wood. Its attractive products come in a variety of styles and colors and, best of all, never need to be painted. However, don’t confuse Craneboard with the vinyl siding that you may have

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seen in the past 10 or 20 years. Craneboard is an architecturally designed product line that can cover walls, eaves and over-hangs, as well as trim and fascia boards. Most importantly, it won’t fade or chalk like vinyl. Craneboard has included several unique features to increase the value and performance of the product. Insulated backing helps keep your home cool. Its patented solid backing also includes Performguard to repel termites and ants. Revolutionary Smart-Track technology, one of the product’s greatest benefits, allows your home to

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breathe so that moisture vapor doesn’t get trapped in the walls and cause mold or dry rot. And for homeowners in Hawaii, that can mean peace of mind. Windows Hawaii also features a variety of siding material, including Hardie Fiber cement. For a free, no-obligation estimate, call Windows Hawaii at 671-0808. Windows Hawaii is offering a limitedtime set of incentives for homeowners. The company also has affordable window packages. For more information, see windowshawaii.com.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION BIA-HAWAII

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he Building Industry Association of Hawaii (BIA-Hawaii) is very committed to our mission to “enhance the quality of life for the people of Hawaii.” Our members are dedicated professionals representing developers, general contractors, specialty contractors, suppliers and associates. That dedication will once again be on full display at the “big show” — the 18th annual BIA Home Building & Remodeling Show, scheduled for this weekend, Jan. 27 to 29, under the con-

venient big roof of Neal Blaisdell Exhibition Hall. This January showcase of building industry experts and companies will offer you thousands of new products, services, building trends and remodeling techniques. It also is a very unique opportunity to ask questions, gather information and establish connections with the owners and senior managers of Hawaii’s top contractors and suppliers. The show will offer homeowners free consultations and special event seminars to provide additional resources for

remodeling and new home construction projects. Conveniently located under one roof, consumers may come to one centralized location and discover the latest technological advances in building materials, appliances, construction innovations, archi-

tectural and interior design. Special event seminars will include “How to Get Rid of Clutter and Organize Your Home” and “New Trends for Kitchens and Bathrooms” Jan. 28; and “Making Senior and Ohana Living Easy” Jan. 29.

We look forward to seeing you at the “big show.” For more information, visit www.biahawaii.org.

Karen Nakamura is executive vice president/CEO of the Building Industry Association of Hawaii.

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$2,000 Visit ServcoRaynor.com for official rules. No purchase necessary. One (1) entry per contestant. Must be 18 years or older at time of entry and home must be in the state of Hawaii to be eligible for this contest. Not transferable or redeemable for cash. Offer void where prohibited, taxed, or restricted by law. Servco Raynor Overhead Doors reserves the right to use any and all information related to the contest for marketing purposes, unless prohibited by law. Contest ends February 29, 2012.

Solar Experts Come to the 2012 BIA Home Building & Remodeling Show

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Nearly all of Hawaii’s biggest solar companies will be at show. We invite you to visit our booth and see how we stack up against the competition.

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end us a photo of your garage door along with your name, address, phone number and email address to: UGLY DOOR CONTEST 2841 Pukoloa Street, Honolulu, HI 96819 or email: GarageDoorsAndMore@Servco.com

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*Dates and locations subject to change. Check revolusun.com for the latest details. JAN. 22, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 5

HAWAIIRENOVATION

ALL-ISLAND BATH CONTACT: 358-7780 • www.allislandbath.com

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• Bathtub and wall surround liners: great opportunity to make your Fit a new tub over your old rusty bathroom safe, comfortable and or hard-to-clean tub or wall, improve the quality of your life: transforming your bath in one • Senior accessibility conversions: day. We offer several options which • Illusionite simulated granite: range from low-cost “tub cut out,” Transform your existing tile or utilizing your existing tub and any type of counter or wall sur- making your step-over height about eight inches lower than round into simulated granite. your existing tub, to complete • Repair fiberglass cracks and tub-to-shower conversions. We rusty tubs: The company special- also offer grab bars and safety izes in the repair of fiberglass, tile, accessories for making life easier cultured marble and rusty or for seniors . worn tubs. • Cost-effective: Updating your bathroom offers one of the best ULTIMATE COMFORT Nothing can make you feel returns on your investment, more refreshed and comfortable increasing the value of your home. than a newly remodeled bath- We can offer you several options room. These options would be a which will fit your budget.

ith over two decades of experience, All Island Bath Remodeling has perfected a unique combination of services. These cost-effective solutions are a fraction of the cost of traditional remodeling solutions. Here are a few examples of these money-saving solutions: • Bathtub and wall surround resurfacing: Resurface your worn or stained tub or wall surround to look like new in any color. • Walk-through conversion: Convert your existing tub into a walk-through shower, making it safer and more comfortable for seniors.

• Tubs, Showers, Counters, Vanities, any type of Wall Surrounds • Rust, Fiberglass, Tile Crack Repair and Refinishing • The thickest tub liners available on the market • Specialist in Cost Effective Alternatives for property managers, realtors, hotels, homeowners & senior citizens • Walk through tub cut for Seniors or disabled • Complete remodeling consultation

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We have developed new methods which are unique and can save you time and money. Call us at 358-7780 and we can give you information about your remodeling needs. Our estimates and consultations are always free. Visit our website at allislandbath.com. We would like to thank our family of customers for letting • Senior Discount: We offer dis- our company serve you over the counts to seniors, military, multi- years. Happy new year from Guy unit, Realtors, property manage- Kakugawa and staff of All Island Bath Remodeling. ment and contractors. • Save time and money: Choosing to refinish or reline will be less invasive and less time consuming than traditional remodeling methods. At All Island Bath Remodeling LLC, we offer the widest variety of options which can be customized to your needs.

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he Building Industry Association (BIA) of Hawaii’s upcoming Home Remodeling and Renovation exposition will be held at Neal Blaisdell Center Exhibition Hall from Friday evening, Jan. 27, through Sunday afternoon, Jan. 29. Consumers will be able to visit numerous exhibiters representing a wide range of home improvement providers. Among these are roofing, flooring, electrical, plumbing, kitchen and bath remodeling, building supplies and solar contractors. There will be ample parking and a small admission fee. The information available at the expo may prove invaluable for those planning various home improvement projects. Whether these are simple projects like door and window changes or more extensive remodeling such as new kitchens, bathrooms and bedroom additions, checking out exactly

what’s in the marketplace will help consumers achieve their goals in the most economical way. One of the “hottest” areas of home projects revolves around the solar industry. Generous tax credits from both the federal and state taxing authorities make “going green” affordable, financially advantageous and essentially a “no-brainer” for many consumers. This exposition will give showgoers an up-close examination of the system components available from many manufacturers and a chance to get acquainted with industry representatives in a neutral, nosales-pressure environment. Hi-Power Solar will be among the many companies available to provide consumers with the latest information on solar thermal water heating and photovoltaic (PV) systems. Hi-Power represents top-tier components in its well-designed PV systems, including high-effi-

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ciency Sanyo, Samsung and SolarWorld panels, and Enphase micro-inverters. For the company’s solar water heating systems, with capacities ranging from 80 to 200 gallons or more, proven collectors from Sun Earth to Morning Star are utilized. What can you expect from HiPower Solar at this expo? Beyond product brochures, you will get “straight talk” — accurate and honest information on the dos and don’ts regarding the renewable energy tax credits, sensible financing options, installation tips and an overall feeling of ohana in this vital aspect of homeownership. Give yourself a chance to meet the friendly folks from Hi-Power Solar at the BIA Hawaii trade show. They will provide you with an energy-efficient, financially sensible and aesthetically pleasing design that will make you the envy of your neighborhood. JAN. 22, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 7

HAWAIIRENOVATION

TAX CREDIT , deduction tips for home improvement

ith the new year under way, you may be thinking about needed home improvements and how you’ll use your credit to fund them. While it’s important to understand your credit before making major home improvement decisions, you should also

consider another kind of credit — tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements. For the past few years, the federal government has offered tax credits for certain home improvements aimed at increasing a home’s energy efficiency. While the most popu-

lar and generous tax credits, such as the one that allowed you to claim up to 30 percent of improvements such as a new roof or hot water heater, have expired, you can still get credit for other significant energy-efficient improvements. According to Energy

Star.gov, you can claim a tax credit for 30 percent of the cost of installing a geothermal heat pump, small wind turbine or solar energy system in your home. The credit has no upper limit and applies to both existing homes and new construction, but not to rental properties. This credit is good until Dec. 31, 2016. You can also get a credit of up to 30 percent of the cost of residential fuel cells, up to $500 per .5kW of power capacity, EnergyStar.gov says. This credit is also available until Dec. 31, 2016. While the initial cost of these improvements may seem significant, they can dramatically decrease home energy bills in the long run. Depending on the type of home improvement or

repair you undertake, you may also be able to claim a deduction on your taxes. Before launching a significant home repair or improvement, it may pay to consult with your tax accountant to see what, if any, portion of the cost may be deductible. And, as you do home repairs throughout the year, keep receipts and discuss the improvements and possible deductions with your accountant when he or she is preparing your tax return. Knowing ahead of time which, if any, tax credits or deductions your home improvement may qualify for can help you make a better decision about how to use credit to fund the work. Since how you use credit affects your overall credit score,

knowing the cost of a project before starting it can help you better manage your credit. If you’re unsure how a home improvement project may affect your credit score, websites like freecreditscore.com can help you understand it. The site offers members a Credit Score Estimator that can help you understand how big financial decisions, like applying for a home improvement loan, may affect your credit score. To learn more about tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements, visit www.EnergyStar.gov. To learn more about tax deductions, visit www.IRS .gov. You can find a list of regional tax credits, rebates and savings at energy.gov/savings.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION Realtor with an estimate to create a new master suite on the ground floor of a home on the golf course,â&#x20AC;? VanDeVanter said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lately, a number of Realtors have contacted me to provide quotes and proposals for potential buyers of twostory homes where offers were contingent on the feasibility of creating a master suite on the ground floor. â&#x20AC;&#x153;With new builds, we often design two master suites, one on the ground

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ter suite with a seating area that doubles as an office, large walk-in closet and bathroom with both a stall shower and tub. The room was reconfigured to take advantage of sweeping views from the ocean to Diamond Head. The swimdows and cabinets, plus the Homeworks bumped out ming pool deck can now be addition of a ground floor the wall of the original bed- accessed directly from the master bedroom suite and room and utilized existing bedroom. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I just provided another study.â&#x20AC;? lanai space to create a mas-

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Designing for lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; with master suite, multigenerational renovations

onverting existing spaces to new uses â&#x20AC;&#x201D; for example, a lanai that became a master suite in a Hawaii Loa Ridge home â&#x20AC;&#x201D; is one of the specialities of Homeworks Construction. The company also has established a reputation as a specialist in multigenerational homes and what has become known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;designing for life.â&#x20AC;? Homeworks project coordinator Sarah VanDeVanter, who is also a licensed real estate broker, said an increasing number of her clients are remodeling and building new to include a master suite on the ground floor. She offers as an example a 24-year-old Hawaii Loa Ridge custom home purchased by a couple with the intention of â&#x20AC;&#x153;re-customizingâ&#x20AC;? it. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They liked the layout of the property and the neighborhood, but the house would require extensive alterations to suit their lifestyle,â&#x20AC;? VanDeVanter said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The project involved structural work, all new kitchen and baths, replacement of floors, doors, win-

floor, which can serve as a guest suite or office, and the main master suite on an upper level for the use of the owners, who may want to take advantage of views or have easy access to upstairs childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rooms.â&#x20AC;? Homeworks Construction CEO Jim Byxbee has focused on the topic of â&#x20AC;&#x153;designing for life,â&#x20AC;? or â&#x20AC;&#x153;aging in place,â&#x20AC;? in his popular radio show, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Build New Or ReDo.â&#x20AC;? The show SEE PAGE 12

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HAWAIIRENOVATION LOKAHI CONCRETE FLOOR POLISHING

EXPLORING YOUR

FLOORING T

oday, we have advanced greatly in all of the material technologies that make up our flooring materials. But even with all of our technological advancements, we are still using the same base materials: Carpet, wood, stone, clay and concrete. The main factors in a flooring-material decision should include the financial impact the flooring has on your budget, the aesthetic impact the flooring material will have on the look you are trying to achieve and the environmental impact a flooring-material choice will have on the local and global environment. To create a comparison between flooring materials, it is possible to describe differences in cost, and it is also possible to describe differences in environmental impact, but the aesthetic value will have to be determined by the buyer when choosing flooring. However, the fact that all of the materials listed below will have inherent aesthetic beauty cannot be denied. The costs stated below are estimated averages obtained through interviews with local suppliers and installers in the Honolulu area. Costs may be higher or lower depending on the installer or supplier used. The environmental impact is expressed as high, medium or neutral and is based upon source materials, transportation, life expectancy, lifetime main-

tenance, carbon footprint, recycling ability and landfill impacts: Carpet: • Average cost per square foot: $7.50 • This material is placed over a wood or concrete subfloor • Carpet is $5 sq/ft • Installation: $2.50 sq/ft • Environmental impact: High

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square foot: $11 • This material is placed over a wood or concrete subfloor • Tile is $5 sq/ft • Materials: Thinset, grout, sealer are $3 sq/ft • Setting cost: $3 sq/ft • Environmental impact: Medium

Travertine Tile: • Average cost per square foot: $15 sq/ft • This material is placed over a wood or concrete subfloor

Bamboo: • Average cost per square foot: $10 • This material is placed over a wood or concrete subfloor • Bamboo is $5 sq/ft • Installation: $5 sq/ft • Environmental impact: Neutral

• Tile is $5 sq/ft • Installation materials: Thinset, grout, sealer are $3 sq/ft • Setting cost: $7 sq/ft • Environmental impact: Medium Diamond-Polished Existing Concrete: • Average cost per square foot: $7 • Concrete has traditionally been used as a base on which to place other flooring-materials. Now, through diamond polishing, existing concrete can be honed, colored and sealed to be used as a finish floor surface that never has to be replaced or sent to a landfill. The process is not to add flooring material but to use the concrete that

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Hardwood Flooring: • Average cost per square foot: $11 • This material is placed over a wood or concrete subfloor • Bamboo is $8 sq/ft • Installation: $3 sq/ft • Environmental impact: Medium Ceramic Porcelain Tile: • Average cost per

you already have, which creates an aesthetically pleasing, affordable and environmentally neutral choice in flooring materials. • Environmental impact: Neutral

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

Keeping your

ave you recently installed new granite countertops and are not really sure how to clean and maintain them? It is possible that you might have an older natural stone countertop that has a lot of stains and is just looking “worn.” Island Stone Center caters to Hawaii’s local stone fabricators and homeowners who have stone care maintenance needs. It is a one-of-akind store in Hawaii that sells products solely for the fabrication and maintenance of granite, marble, travertine, concrete and other types of natural stones. For kitchen countertops stained by food, oil or coffee, use Mangia Macchia to pull them out. Cover the stain with the poultice, cover with Saran Wrap, leave overnight and remove in the morning. The

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drying action of the poultice will pull up old food and oil stains. To prevent any future staining, use Proseal on your granite countertop, which can protect the stone for up to five years. Proseal is applied by spreading the sealer onto the surface, letting it sit for five minutes, then removing any excess. The sealer still will allow the stone to “breathe,” but prevent surface liquids from penetrating into the stone. To maintain the stone after it has

been cleaned and sealed, use Lustro Italiano cleaner and polish. Lustro Italiano cleaner is pH-neutral, which is necessary for maintaining granite- and marble-polished surfaces. Unlike some other household solvents, this cleaner will not shorten the life of stone sealants. Using cleaners that are not pH-neutral, like vinegar or any cleaner containing lemon, can abrade the polish from the stone. Lustro Italiano stone polish is a spray-on wax that helps prevent water spots and works as a polishing agent to enhance the shine on polished surfaces. Compared to other polishes, it creates a deeper, long-lasting shine. Lustro Italiano stone polish can be used weekly or as needed. It is easy to use — just spray onto the polished stone surface and wipe with a micro-fiber cloth to create a long-lasting shine.

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with Shirley Pai Hilton, Pres. & CEO, PII Moldings or transitions are trim pieces used to finish off your wood floor and give it a complete look. An end molding (threshold) wraps the raw ends of the floor while a t-molding bridges a gap between two different floors of the same height (say wood and tile). A reducer is used to slope down to a lower floor, like carpet or vinyl. And lastly, perimeter moldings such as quarter rounds, base shoe or base boards, cover the expansion gap (along a wall or other fixed item). Wood constantly expands and contracts after installation and that gap provides breathing room. Aloha!

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JAN 22, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 11

HAWAIIRENOVATION

The ‘designing for life’ specialists FROM PAGE 9

is broadcast on Saturday mornings from 9 to 10 a.m. on KHVH Radio AM830. “We’ve been doing the show for eight years now, but recently there’s been a notable increase in listeners calling in with questions about these topics, as well as designing for multigenerational living,” Byxbee said. “In fact, we’ve restructured the show with my new co-host, Rick Hamada, to take more listener questions. We encourage listeners to jot down their ques-

tions about any building or remodeling project and call us during the show at 5218383. Over the next month or so, we’ll be discussing features that can be built into a home to make it adaptable for the occupants as they age ... as well as creating spaces for older parents who may have mobility problems. There are great advances in kitchen and bath appliances and fixtures that both address special needs and conserve energy.” With approximately 1,000 new custom homes,

remodels and additions completed on Oahu over the past 15 years, Homeworks is a true design build firm providing all services “under one roof,” from drawing plans and obtaining permits to demolition, construction and interior finishes. You can meet the Homeworks Construction designers and builders and review photos of Homeworks projects at the Homeworks booths at the BIA Home Building and Remodeling Show at Neal Blaisdell Center Jan. 27, 28

and 29. Or make an appointment to meet for a free consultation at the Homeworks showroom in the Homeworks Building at 2111 S. Beretania St. A free Build New Or ReDo seminar will be held at the showroom on Tuesday, Feb. 7, from 6 to 8 p.m. For reservations and directions, please call Homeworks at 955-2777.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

Showcasing new home design, building trends

can see such a system at the Honolulu Design Center building. Its metallic orange-and-silver panels are actually a rain screen which provides protecCONTACT: 593-2808 • www.grahambuilders.com tion from the rain and sun in a strikingly modern grid pattern.” “Rain-screen siding can also be coning a modern aesthetic as an alternative to sidings installed the traditional sidered sustainable as it lowers energy consumption by cooling the home,” way. “Whether we are using traditional added Mark Slivka, AIA, Graham wood sidings, products such as Builders’ architect. Homeowners interested in learning Hardiplank, Hardipanel, or other phenolic or aluminum wall cladding sys- more about securespace and raintems, this installation liberates our screen siding can visit Graham designers to create innovative pat- Builders’ booth at the 2012 BIA Home Securespace for peace of mind Graham Builders offers Hawaii’s terns and shapes,” said Fujimoto. “You Building and Remodeling Show, where models of both trends will be homeowners peace of mind with on display. securespace, a reinforced fire-resisFor those who cannot make it to the tant closet with a high-strength steel show, they may attend Graham door and commercial-grade locking Builders’ free upcoming “Building mechanisms. Your Home for Life” seminar Feb. 25 Financial records, medical informafrom 9 to 11 a.m. at Honolulu Country tion, birth certificates and other valuClub. Seminars are free, but reservaable personal property can be safely tions are required. For a full schedule stored for easy access on a daily basis. of 2012 monthly seminars or to regisHeavy-grade structural materials ter, visit www.graham builders.com or make it extremely difficult for intrudcall 593-2808. ers to gain access to personal information and property. Securespace provides homeowners a specific location to safely store at-risk records that are typically left unattended on desks, bookshelves or in unsecured closets. “The great thing about securespace is that it can be built anywhere in Above: Photo courtesy of Cement Board Fabricators your home and in any size so homeowners can conveniently retrieve and store records or personal items,” said Evan Fujimoto, Graham Builders’ president.

or the past 20 years, Graham Builders, Hawaii’s premier design + build firm, has taken the lead in identifying new trends in home design and construction, and applying them to new homes. The company once again establishes itself as a leader in home design and construction by displaying two emerging trends at the upcoming 2012 Building Industry Association Home Building and Remodeling Show, Jan. 27 to 29 at Neal S. Blaisdell Exhibition Hall.

Rain-screens cool home, enhance aesthetics Graham Builders also takes the lead among home construction companies by applying sidings using a rainscreen system to new homes in Hawaii. Used for decades in Europe, rainscreens create an air gap between the siding material and structural wall surface, which is protected by a waterproof house wrap. This prevents moisture build-up common in most direct-applied siding applications. The crisp, contemporary look of rainscreen siding provides Graham Builders designers with a fresh approach to enliven the exterior elevations of homes — a way of achiev-

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JAN. 22, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 13

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Putting an end to potholes T

here has been an abundance of rain this winter season. It was a great holiday season, but now it’s time for a New Year’s resolution: Maintain your asphalt! Left untreated, asphalt pavement will deteriorate rapidly. The asphalt binder that holds the pavement together begins to oxidize and weather soon after installation. Moisture penetrates the asphalt, causing further damage and deterioration to the pavement. One of the major ways moisture penetrates asphalt is through fatigue cracking. Fatigue cracking occurs in areas subjected to repeated traffic loadings (wheel paths), characteristically with a chicken wire/alligator pattern in later stages. This cracking allows water into the pavement which slowly breaks it down, eventually forming a pothole. Potholes are bowl-shaped holes of various sizes on the pavement surface. The best fix for heavily cracked areas and potholes is to replace that area of asphalt. Do not wait to fix potholes and other areas with cracking! These areas with damaged asphalt can easily double within a one-year period. When problem areas arise, Walker-Moody can patch and crackfill these areas to extend the life of your pavement. Once moisture is prevented from penetrating the asphalt, it is an ideal time to sealcoat the surface and prevent de-raveling (getting loose rocks all over). The best fix for fatigue cracking and potholes is a hot asphalt patch. For areas with fatigue cracking you will need to cut the asphalt out. Cut enough so that the hole is about two inches deep. Clean the patch area so that all

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loose debris is removed. You will have to spray tack coat CONTACT: 839-2781 • construction@walker-moody.com in the patch area and around the edges. This • www.walker-moody.com acts as a glue and binds the hot asphalt to the current surface. Lastly, place the hot asphalt in the hole and compact. Sometimes, the cracking has not also damaged the asphalt enough to warrant a hot patch. A cheaper solution

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

Conceal Clutter

Solving pothole problems FROM PAGE 14

to remove and replace it is crackfilling, which starts with cleaning the loose debris and making sure it is dry. Apply a hot crack-filler such as CrackMaster PL (flexible parking lot formula) and open the area for vehicular traffic within five minutes. For a free estimate, contact Walker-Moody Construction, an authorized installer of SealMaster Hawaii. Call 8392781 to talk with a trained professional. They will come out and review your property, measure the asphalt for accuracy, provide recommendations in a formal proposal and will deliver on-time and on-budget projects. Whether you want a quick-fix or a long-term solution, give these professionals a call because they fix it all. Asphalt maintenance work for Walker-Moody Construction is now approaching nine million square feet. Call Walker-Moody Construction to receive your free estimate at 839-2781.

FROM PAGE 2

Next, I concentrated on the kitchen’s two main walls. The first wall was all about function; here, I stacked an oven and microwave on one side and hid a stainless steel fridge, freezer and wine cooler behind custom white panels on the other side. In the middle is a white crystalline sink with a glass cutting board that slides across when it’s not in use. Below the sink I put some hidden storage, as well as a pullout trash and recycling bin. I chose bright white quartz countertops and a back-painted glass backsplash (and the half wall/pantry adjacent to it). This ups the glamour factor and helps reflect the light in the kitchen, rendering the small space visually larger. Across from this functional wall, I created a wall that is all about beauty. I constructed an archway of wood, housing recessed lights, around horizontal panels of more back-painted glass. This stunning wall is highly reflective and adds a huge amount of depth to the little space. In the middle of the kitchen, I installed a magnificent kitchen island with a solid

glass countertop. This island can be used as an extra prep surface, a casual dining table or — with the help of the integrated LEDs — a funky, illuminated cocktail bar. Hidden in this island are storage and a dishwasher, in addition to an induction cooktop that sits flush with the countertop. Even the cooktop’s ventilation stays out of sight until needed. By the time I was finished, this kitchen had everything: tons of storage, state-ofthe-art appliances and plenty of modern conveniences. Everything was just hidden away behind cupboards, doors and drawers. Concealed, clean and pared down. What was once a time warp from another decade is now a gem of modern function and beauty that flows perfectly with the rest of the house. Out of sight, in more ways than one! Interior decorator Candice Olson is host of HGTV’s “Divine Design.” License # C-30206

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JAN. 22, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 15

BACKPAGECOVERSTORY

LOCK IN THE MOST

DURABLE FLOOR IN THE INDUSTRY

etroflor’s new interlocking floor product, Engage, is the perfect floor if you are looking for durability in either your home or business. Engage is backed by a 25-year residential and five-year commercial warranty. This Luxury Vinyl Tile product is installed free-floating and clicks together with the industry’s best locking system, Uniclic. Because Engage does not require adhesives, the floor is ready to be used as soon as it is installed. It also eliminates any potential VOCs or off-gassing, making it a sound recommendation for spaces with indoor air quality issues. Because Engage is a vinyl product, it is moisture-resistant from the top down, making it a suitable option for kitchens or bathrooms. Here are some reasons to go with Engage:

• Engage Essential planks come in a 7 1/2” by 47 1/2” plank size with various color options. 16 | HAWAII RENOVATION | JAN. 22, 2012

WAYNE’S FLOORING AMERICA ADDRESS: 3025 WAIALAE AVE. CONTACT: 735-3005 • www.waynesflooringhawaii.com Lake or other flooring outlets throughout Hawaii.

• Engage is a great option for homeowners looking for a quality DIY (Do It Yourself) type product. Metroflor is the World’s largest LVT manufacturer, and with

Engage, it has introduced another innovative product to the popular category. Other products manufactured by Metroflor include Hybrid and Konecto. For more information on Metroflor, please go to our website, metroflorlvt.com. Find the answer to your needs with Metroflor’s Engage at all Wayne’s locations including Kaimuki, Kaneohe and Sand Island. You also can visit The Carpet Outlet in Salt

Reasons to choose LVT flooring: Homeowners interested in renovating their flooring may be wondering what the big deal is with Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT). Here are a few benefits you get with LVT flooring: • Durability: Vinyl floors are easy to maintain and care for, especially with people who have kids or pets. • Moisture resistance: LVT is more resistant to water than hardwood- and laminate- type products. • Softer underfoot: LVT is softer on your feet as well as your body.