Sequim Gazette
Romancing the Home 2010
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 1
Romancing the Home 2010
2 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you, PUD!*
OUTSTANDING!*
Can’t believe this was free. Wonderful! Thanks!*
Sequim Gazette
I will tell everyone I know about this!*
I wish I had done this years ago!*
Why are these PUD Customers – and over 1,500 others – so happy? They’ve experienced the benefits of the PUD’s popular duct-sealing program -- at little or no cost to them.
Running a heating system with leaky eaky ductwork is like running your heater with the windows open, allowing llowing up to 60% of heated air to escape. Call us to learn how you could cut heating costs up to 20% with Performance Tested Comfort System (PTCS) Duct-sealing by Participating Installers. Soon, you too could be saying,
(360) 565-3249 or (800) 542-7859 x249 *Actual comments from program participants.
I can’t believe what a difference this has made! Thanks a Million!*
Romancing the Home 2010
Sequim Gazette
Table of contents
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 3
A little bit of this and that .................................... 28
Cabinet store expands into Sequim......................... 4 Artwork with wood ............................................... 32 Kirsch Electric goes solar .................................... 37 Old As the Hills: The Quarry brings natural stone to local projects .................. 8 Time for a new look .............................................. 12 It pays to be warm and comfy ............................... 16 Fabulous floors from a family owned company.................................... 20 Carved in stone: timeless granite ......................... 23 “Romancing the Home 2010” is a special section of the Sequim Gazette. ©
w w w. p a b a r g a i n w a r e h o u s e . n e t
Olympic View Publishing Co. LLC P.O. Box 1750, Sequim, WA 98382 Phone: (360) 683-3311 • FAX: (360) 683-6670
2010 by Olympic View Publishing Co. LLC. Publisher: Sue Ellen Riesau • General Manager: Steve Perry Special Sections Editor: Patricia Morrison Coate Publication and Cover Design: Mandy Kay Harris
Laminate Countertops by Design a division of by Design Group, Inc.
MATTRESSES
20%-30% off
Romance your home*
Financing Available
Selected models, a dozen to choose from! Hours: Mon.–Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. • Sun. 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
452-3936 • 2830 Hwy. 101 East Port Angeles
6 months same as cash
*Free Undermount Sink. Visit or call our showroom for details. Locally Owned and Operated Full-Service General Contractor serving Sequim since 2002 Lic#BYDESGI944MG • 11 E. Runnion Rd. • Sequim
Showroom
582-1843
www.bydesigngroupinc.net
Romancing the Home 2010
4 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Sequim Gazette
Cabinet store expands into Sequim by Ashley Miller for the Sequim Gazette
To Christopher Curtis, owner of Curtis Interiors, it’s what’s inside that really matters. He looks beyond the exterior of an old, weathered house to the heart of a home to see its true potential. Whereas one person might look at a rustic house with weathered, peeling paint and think, ‘Boy what a money pit!’ Curtis looks at the same house and dreams about what it could look like remodeled. After working as a general contractor on the peninsula for 10 years, Curtis opened Curtis Interiors in Port Angeles three years ago. Located just west of the U.S. Highway 101 East and Monroe Road intersection, the showroom is distinguishable by a giant golden elephant. “The honest truth,” Curtis said with a laugh, “is that it was sent to us as a present from a company we buy products from and we decided to put it up to draw attention to us.” A matching elephant won’t, however, be installed at the new Sequim showroom that opened Memorial Day weekend, Curtis said in an effort to curb one of the most commonly asked question about the new branch. Curtis Interiors specializes in cabinets, solid granite and marble countertops and
Are you
hardwood, laminate, tile and vinyl flooring sales and installation in new, custom and remodeled homes. Though other businesses offer similar products and services, it’s the company’s “fantastic service” and “excellent pricing” that sets Curtis Interiors apart from competitors, Curtis said proudly. Materials are directly imported from where they are manufactured and purchased in high quantity stock, allowing
Curtis Interiors 845 W. Washington St., Sequim 683-2350 2432 Highway 101 East, Port Angeles 417-2833 Hours: Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
See CABINET, page 7
Curtis Interiors in Port Angeles is recognizable from the highway by a giant golden elephant. Sequim Gazette photo by Ashley Miller
Fully Protected? We design and install
SECURITY SYSTEMS
Residential and commercial to fit your needs & budget
24-Hour Monitoring for only $ 99/mo.
22
723 E. Front St., PA • 452-2727 www.gotohitech.com
the sales to be passed along to customers, explained Andra Smith, general operations manager and Curtis’ right-hand woman. “We will continue to offer our great prices and monthly specials,” she said. The decision to open a Sequim showroom was an easy one, according to Curtis. “We’ve had great success in the Sequim community
n o t g n i Wash l. a r e d e F . e r e h ed t s e v n i
Mention this ad to receive a $100 credit toward your mortgage costs. Offer expires 12/31/10 Sequim 191 W. Washington St.
360-681-7485
Sequim Gazette
Romancing the Home 2010
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 5
Romancing the Home 2010
6 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
We pick up for FREE!
In Sequim
Your Hometown Store Friday, October 15th thru Saturday, October 23rd, 2010
20
Sequim Gazette
DONATE used building materials and home furnishings SHOP for new treasures DISCOVER green solutions Check out our New Warehouse!
% all Kenmore
Now over 6000 sq.ft. of showrooms!
OFF appliances*
A 501(c)3 non-profit On the web: www.aroundagainstore.org
PLUS
765 West Washington St. • Sequim • 683-7862
Clearly Great Water
extra
5
%
OFF ®
Kenmore appliances with your Sears card*
solutions for your home from.....
®
Aqua-Pure® brand offers a complete line of water filtration and water treatment products to help provide you and your family with cleaner water.
Offer good thru 10/23/10. See store for details.
Mention this ad for a FREE WATER SAMPLE now through November 30
Your neighborhood store and so much more. * Restrictions apply. See store for details.
232 Valley Center Place, Sequim Check out our
Across Highway 101 from Sunny Farms • Open 7 days a week
800-345-5781 • 681-3079 Owned & operated by the Grey family.
AV H E
W
E
W
www.searssequim.com
NEW DISPLAY 425 S. 3rd Ave. • Sequim • 360-683-7996
O OD
McClanahan Cla anahan Lumber r 1-877-662-7326 877 662 7326 877-662-7326
Ed Ostlund, Larry & Judi McClanahan with Nellie Our O lumber business revolves around the principle that we want each customer, eeach inquiry, q each business transaction to be well-cared-for – then we will have a happy and satisfied customer. We specialize in full or size-sawn VG clear Douglas Fir, Sitka Spruce and Western Red Cedar. • Beam packages • Trim packages • Odd thicknesses • Flooring • Long lengths • Cut to order • Siding • Wide widths • Mill direct Certified lumber grading in-house
PO Box 1483 • Forks • (360) 374-5887 www.mcclanahanlumber.com
Sequim Gazette
Romancing the Home 2010
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 7
Cabinet from page 4 and wanted to give them something even better than what they already had,” he said with an air of confidence. “We (are able to) work around our customers’ schedules because our employees do all the installation and we don’t have to wait around on subcontractors.” Now that the Sequim showroom is open, customers are putting two and two together and realizing that Curtis Interiors in Sequim is under the same ownership as the “elephant store” in Port Angeles. “A lot of people in Sequim didn’t know what we offered or that we even existed in Port Angeles,” Smith said. “But that’s quickly changing.” Curtis is by no means a newcomer to Sequim. He moved from Kansas City 12 years ago, attracted to the area by the mountains and the ocean. But it was true love that made him decide to stay. He met and married Sequim-native Lynette Brown, an obstetrics nurse at Olympic Memorial Hospital. The couple and their three children — ages 4, 7 and 10 — live between Sequim and Port Angeles, sponsor a youth soccer team and are active in fundraising for Five Acre School. “I like that this is a small community,” Curtis said about Sequim. “I like the natural beauty of the area, the demographics and the outdoor recreation. “And even more importantly, it’s a great place to raise my kids.”
Christopher Curtis, owner of Curtis Interiors, invites customers to stop by the Sequim or Port Angeles showroom to start planning their construction or remodel project today.
and installation ood flooring and tile sales end this year. rdw ha s, top ter un co e nit ets, gra y Week Curtis Interiors offers cabinding areas. The Sequim branch opened Memorial Daette photos by Ashley Miller un Gaz rro uim su Seq its in Sequim and
8 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Romancing the Home 2010
Sequim Gazette
Old As the Hills
The Quarry brings natural stone to local projects by Jerry Kraft for the Sequim Gazette
Can there be a more beautiful and enduring building material than natural stone? The North Olympic Peninsula is lucky to have The Quarry, a stone and masonry supply company, at 833 E. Front St. in Port Angeles. Owner Greg Downing has been in the stone and masonry business for 42 years and first brought natural stone to the peninsula in 1989. The supply company provides everything from cultured stone to stone veneers, manufactured stones and tiles to a great variety of decorative stone and masonry. “This is a unique showroom,” Downing said, “and it’s set up to highlight natural stone.” A magnificent stone fireplace
A number of completed projects have been built in the display yard of The Quarry so people can get an accurate assessment of what their project will cost and what materials it will require. Photo by Jerry Kraft
See QUARRY, page 10
n o o i f t Q i d uality a r T A TILE & LANDSCAPING SUPPLIES Tile & Setting Materials • Concrete Pavers • Wall Block Sand & Gravel • Boulders • Flagstone • Bark Topsoil • Eldorado Stone
4001 Tumwater Truck Rte. • Port Angeles 360-457-3371 490 South Blake Ave. • Sequim 360-681-2877
www.BLAKEINC.net
Sequim Gazette
Romancing the Home 2010
New Cabin at Sea Crest Beach Near Kalaloch Looking for a relaxing, amazing, beautiful adventure? This is the spot to check out!! Private 19 acres with old-growth trees and spectacular oceanfront • comfortably sleeps 6 • 2 bedrooms, 1 bath • a spacious loft • wraparound deck • path to the shore Amenities include: • fully-equipped kitchen with refrigerator, gas range & fireplace, electric oven, microwave, toaster, coffee maker and dishwasher • washer and dryer • hot water on demand • fireplace • pet friendly Located just 3.5 miles south of the historic Kalaloch Lodge and 1.5 miles north of the most popular fly-fishing river in Washington State, the Queets.
SOUND SURVEYORS, INC. Allen and Charters Enterprises, Inc. Contractors
view@seacrestatkalaloch.com VRBO.com/220195 to book your stay.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 9
10 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Quarry from page 8
and hearth is on display on one wall and beautifully fitted stones pave the floor of the business, with other fitted stones lining the walls. Out in the yard, a number of completed projects have been assembled, displaying everything from simple patio repaving to more complicated garden structures. “We do not sell kits, but these displays make it much easier for a customer to come in and see one of these projects and then ask, ‘Exactly how much would it cost to do this?’ and we can tell them,” Downing said. “We sell to landscape contractors, masonry contractors and very often to homeowners who are just wanting to upgrade their homes. Eventually we want to have a binder with photos of several of these completed projects so we can give people ideas for what they can do to their own homes and what it would cost. Right now, our most common sale is flagstone for patios and walkways, and ledge stone for building planters. People should not be afraid to take on a natural stone building project.” Downing explained that if you are transforming a lawn area into a stone patio, the builder probably would want a sand-bedded stone material.
Romancing the Home 2010
Sequim Gazette
The Quarry 833 E. Front St., Port Angeles 417-8397 E-mail: info@TheQuarryPA.com Hours: 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. MondayFriday; 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday
“That is a 1½- to 2-inch thick stone that will make a stable walking surface,” he explained, “First you set down a 1-inch layer of coarse, unwashed sand and then set the stone on that. Putting the flagstone pieces together is really like assembling a jigsaw puzzle and it’s really not that complicated.” For the homeowner with an old concrete patio that they simply want to improve, they would probably want to use a “mud-set” stone, which is a thinner stone, typically 3/8-inch to 3/4-inch thick which is set on a 1-inch mortar bed spread on top of the existing surface. As with all stone construction projects, there is a great variety of stone to choose from. More complicated masonry projects such as fireplaces, floors and walls may require a professional contractor, but Downing explained that as many as two-thirds of the projects he sells are directly to the homeowner, rather than to a contractor. A big advantage of The Quarry is that it gets all its stone directly from quarries in southern Idaho, northern Utah, western Montana and even Colorado. “We don’t go through any middleman,” Downing said, “So instead of having the stone go from the quarry to some company on Puget Sound and then to us, you get it directly from us. That cuts the cost and also gives the advantage of my knowledge and experience in getting the best materials.” Since opening at the site of the former Hartnagel’s showroom last fall, The Quarry has done a good business, based largely on Downing’s experience with stone and with knowing the needs of local builders. The Quarry is a natural resource for this community Downing has access to stone materials from a wide area to give local to acquire the very best builders a wide selection. Photos by Jerry Kraft of this unique construction
material. “Natural stone is beautiful,” Downing said, “It’s an amazing building material that changes textures and colors and wears extremely well. These floor stones, for example, won’t absorb water so they won’t freeze or laminate and they’re virtually indestructible. This stone is old to start with, of course, and it will be around long after we’re gone.” When you need to build a new project made of something as old as the hills, The Quarry is the place to come.
Natural stone is a beautiful and enduring building material. It is also very complimentary to the style of the Northwest and the taste of local homeowners. Below, Greg Downing has been in the natural stone business for 42 years. He opened The Quarry in order to provide local builders and homeowners direct access to stone from quarries throughout the West.
Romancing the Home 2010
Sequim Gazette
LAND TITLE and ESCROW COMPANY
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 11
Impossible to install ductwork? Take advantage of the “Northwest Ductless Heat Pump Project”
Serving Clallam and Jefferson Counties Sequim Port Angeles 720 E. Washington St. 402 S. Lincoln Suite 105 (360) 457-0482 (360) 683-7281
Mini-Split M ini-Split A Air ir C Conditioners onditioners aand nd H Heat eat PPumps umps
NORTHWEST ASBESTOS CONSULTANTS Surveys • Inspections • Testing
Bob Witheridge 406 Reed Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368 Phone: 1-360-385-0584 EPA AHERA Building Inspector/ management Planner E-mail: northwestasbestosconsultants@cablespeed.com
Serving all of Western Washington Working together for a safe environment.
Certification #WAMOA-0042
Member North Peninsula Building Association
Mattress Sale Going on NOW!
MOST SYSTEMS QUALIFY FOR A PUD REBATE OF $1,50000, A FEDERAL TAX CREDIT OF UP TO $1,50000 AND A WASHINGTON STATE CASH FOR APPPLIANCE REBATE OF $75000 Call today for program details and schedule your free in-home assessment and estimate In all of us, a green heart
Now open next to JCPenney
Fine Furniture for fine homes at affordable prices 609 W. Washington Street, Sequim
681-7804
Hours: Mon.-Fri. 10-6, Sat. 10-5, Sun. 11-3
360
681-3333
782 Kitchen-Dick Road • Sequim PENINSULA HEAT IS THE LEADING INSTALLING CONTRACTOR FOR DUCTLESS SPLIT HEAT PUMP SYSTEMS ON THE PENINSULA
12 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Romancing the Home 2010
Time for a new look by Elizabeth Kelly for the Sequim Gazette
The expansion of the Everwarm Hearth and Home building on U.S. Highway 101 is much more than a face-lift. One look inside the redesigned showroom will open a world of wood, pellet and gas stoves on display, and much more. Terry McCartney, who with his wife, Jinny, own Everwarm, said they started their business 33 years ago and moved to their present location in 1991. Starting out as an insulation company, McCartney said he bought the former Wood Stove Center and moved his business
from a larger building in Port Angeles into a smaller one. But the better location on the highway made it worth it. As Everwarm grew over the years, however, they needed more storage room. When the owner of the pre-school at the west end of their building agreed to sell, they entered into a seven-year lease agreement with her. Then, five years ago they bought two acres east of them and built their new warehouse. “The sevenyear lease ended in June,” McCartney said and plans were under way for the remodeling. “We’re redoing the whole façade,” he said, “to make it look more uniform.” “A lot of people come in
Terry McCartney explains modern cook stoves available at Everwarm. Photo by Elizabeth Kelly
A new façade for Everwarm is under way. Photo by John Huston
Sequim Gazette
Romancing the Home 2010
Sequim Gazette here and say, ‘I didn’t know it was so big in here,’” said Kay Alger, business manager. “One advantage of the new showroom is that we can show more propane gas fireplaces,” she said. People need to see the fire burning at various levels on a set of logs, rocks, or even glass, Alger added. Although wood stoves are their biggest sellers, because “nothing heats like wood,” McCartney explained, there are pluses with all three types of stoves: wood stoves work without power; pellet stoves, which also emit wood heat, provide even, consistent heat, however, they require electricity to operate; but propane gas stoves are “the most convenient,” he said. “Most new construction now uses gas,” he added, “because the gas can then also be directed into a fireplace, kitchen stove or clothes dryer.” McCartney said one important thing he likes to do is the “home preview.”
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 13
LLandscaping andscapping B Byy
Everwarm Hearth & Home
Cockburn, INC.
257151 Highway 101, Port Angeles 452-3366 and 800-750-7868 www.everwarmhearthandhome.com Whether a new or existing home, he personally goes into the home to assess the layout of the house and see how well it is insulated. “We try to educate the consumer,” he explained. “It doesn’t do any good to produce heat if the insulation isn’t good.” Additionally, Everwarm does a cost analysis of different fuel costs every year. Last year, for each one million BTUs (British Thermal Unit, a basic measure of
See LOOK, page 14
Landscape r the designs fo selfers” “Do-it-your
Compost and Mulch
FREE 1-Hour Landscape Design Consultation
Fall is for planting
Creating C i Landscapes L d for the Northwest Lifestyle for over 30 years.
457-5950 or 461-4157 225 Gehrke Rd., Port Angeles
681-0132 Certified horticultural specialist • Lic#LandSC1963OZ
Enhance your Home Professional customer service and great
prices
• Custom draperies • Complete Window Coverings including all hard surface treatments • Upholstery Services • Wallpaper ONSITE WORKROOMS
119 N. Sequim Ave., Sequim 683-6338
Having FUN with METALS in Carlsborg ...
• Handrails • Guard Rails
You’ll love your Lopi!
Serving the Olympic Peninsula since 1967
• Patio Gates
Since 1991
• Structural Steel
Romance your home with a new stove, fireplace or insert from Lopi.
• Portable Welding • Driveway Gates • Driveway Gate Operating Systems
Enhance the entrance to your home with a beautiful guardrail or handrail
As beautiful as they are functional
• Welding Repairs • Trailer Hitches
Get up to $1800 off any Lopi Wood or Pellet stove or insert -- see store for details! 257151 Highway 101 • Midway between P.A. & Sequim
360-452-3366 www.everwarmhearthandhome.com Locally owned since 1977 • Contr. Lic# EVERWI*088NL
EverWarm HEARTH & HOME
81 Hooker Rd., #9, Sequim • 360-681-0584 www.allformwelding.com Cont. Reg. ALLFOW1023CB
MEMBER NATIONAL ORNAMENTAL & MISCELLANEOUS METALS ASSOCIATION
14 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Romancing the Home 2010
Sequim Gazette
Look from page 13
A gas log fireplace can bring beauty and warmth to your home. Photo by Elizabeth Kelly
Specializing in Excavation, Land Clearing, Site Development, Conventional, Alternative & BioFilter Systems
COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL
360-457-1420 E-mail: roger@rj-services.com Roger & Dena Wheeler, Owners 122 S. Brook Ave • Port Angeles WA St. Contr. #RJSERI*080J8
heat energy) generated, propane was $26, pellets cost $24, electric heat cost $18, and wood, at $200 a cord was only $14. “But there’s work involved with wood,” McCartney qualified. “Firewood needs to be dry and seasoned for one full year,” he said, adding that it must be cut, split and stacked off the ground and under a roof cover in order to dry out completely. Burning wet wood results in lower temperatures, which creates tars and creosote in the chimney and is not good for the
environment, he said. “A lot of people argue that fully dried and seasoned wood is carbon neutral,” McCartney said. He explained that when a tree falls and disintegrates in the woods, it emits gases back into the atmosphere, much the same as when it is burned. A board member and treasurer of NWHPBA (Northwest Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association), McCartney said that Washington has the lowest emission standards for wood burning stoves in the nation. The U.S. soon may adopt Washington’s standards nationwide, he said. Education of the consumer regarding
Now open upstairs at Olympic Stationers
122 E. Front St. | 360-457-6111
Romancing the Home 2010
Sequim Gazette heat and the environment is of primary importance to both McCartney and Alger. “When people buy used appliances, they need to make sure they are EPA (Environmental Protective Agency) approved,” Alger said. If they are older than July 1992, they cannot be legally installed, McCartney added. Through the end of 2010, consumers can receive a federal tax credit for EPA-approved wood and pellet stoves, windows and solar tubes. “They can get 30 percent up to $1,500 of their cost back,” McCartney said, “but it has to be paid for in 2010. “They’re trying to get the old stoves off the market,” he said. “New stoves reburn the smoke and the emissions are cleaner.” In Everwarm’s showroom there are dozens of stove, insert and fireplace models to choose from, whether woodburning, pellet or gas. They also carry barbecues, custom
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 15
mirrors, shower doors, vinyl-framed windows, skylights and Solatube daylight systems. McCartney said their best advertisers are often their former customers. “Since we’ve been in business for 33 years,” he said, “we have built a customer base,” adding that many people are repeat customers who come back over the years, and they tell their family and friends.” Hence, their slogan, “We make warm friends.” Most of the remodeling will be finished by late October or at least, “we’re hoping,” smiled McCartney. Fireplace inserts in a variety of styles offer an attractive way to heat your home. Photo by Elizabeth Kelly
INSURANCE INC.
Home Auto Business Insurance Umbrellas Boat Inland Marine Brenda Dunlap, p, Linda Burwash and Dan Fryer
Bonds Contractors Equipment Contractors Liability Specialty Coverage
Celebrating over
30 Years in Sequim!
Each floor individually crafted by our own skilled employees
SEQUIM: 683-79888 • 7th & W. Washi Washington | PORT ANGELES: 457-1144 • 603 E. Front St.
The Hardwood Floor Experts
360
683-8500
190 Center Park Way, Sequim (Behind Jiffy Lube) #CLASSHF997LO
PAUL T. KNEUER CONSTRUCTION CUSTOM BUILDER TURNED REMODELER Quality Craftsmanship in all aspects of Home Improvement Foundation to Turnkey Established in 2000
582-3820
461-2406
• www.classichf.com
Claudio Gonzalez, Owner
DISTRIBUTING ™
ATTENTION BUILDERS, CONTRACTORS & HOMEOWNERS:
We Buy Direct from Mills & Manufacturers Your Complete Source For Floor Coverings & Supplies From Around The World
JOB SITE DELIVERY
• I N S TA L L AT I O N • R E F I N I S H I N G • R E S T O R AT I O N • R E PA I R S
Floors that last for Generations™
M.M. FRYER & SONS
• I N S TA L L AT I O N • R E F I N I S H I N G • R E S T O R AT I O N • R E PA I R S •
16 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Romancing the Home 2010
Sequim Gazette
It pays to be warm and comfy by Elizabeth Kelly for the Sequim Gazette
If your house was built before 1970, chances are it is under-insulated and what insulation there is could be highly flammable, creating a dangerous fire hazard. Add to that the fact that nearly all older insulation was harmful to the environment and you come up with three good reasons to have your home’s insulation analyzed by the experts at Tracy’s Insulation in Sequim. “We will analyze a house free of charge,” said owner Tracy Bloom. “We see what’s in the walls and whether there is a ‘leaky’ front door or electrical outlets,” he said. Bloom explained that homeowners can save considerably on their utility bills by upgrading their existing insulation. Currently, the city of Port Angeles in cooperation with the Bonneville Power Administration and the Department of Energy’s Energy Star® program is offering rebates for weatherizing or bringing insulation up to code. The long-term goal of the city’s program is energy savings, but customers also get the advantage of saving money and living in a warm and comfy home.
Saving energy is something that is on everyone’s mind these days, said Bloom, “and if you can make a house energy efficient (by upgrading or adding insulation) you can potentially save up to $100 a month on your utility bill.” Bloom’s company is a member of Built Green of Clallam County, an affiliate of the North Peninsula Building Association. “It’s the best association I’ve ever been a part of,” he added. The association supports building “green” as being both simple and smart, resulting in healthier homes that are energy efficient, which helps lower the ecological “footprint” for the whole community. Bloom’s company just completed work on a home in Port Ludlow which is a “German passive” house. “There is no heater system in the house but it is so well insulated that it is heated by body heat and the electrical appliances which are found in the home, such as the refrigerator,” he said, adding that the owners probably would recoup their outlay for the insulation in three years. Having been in the insulation industry for more than 20 years, beginning in Tacoma and eventually in Sequim, Bloom decided to form his own company four years ago, and built the showroom
at 261372 Highway 101. He explained that he and his late business partner “started with a hand shake on the island in my kitchen.” When his partner, a father of two, died of a heart attack at the young age of 27, Bloom carried on as sole owner. But he didn’t forget his former partner whose widow still “receives a paycheck” to this day, he added. Bloom’s company employs 26 people and he cares personally about each of them. “My motto is: “If you take care of the company, the company will take care of you.” A good example of Bloom’s sincerity of this motto is his office manager Kathy Hamilton. “She’s a godsend,” he said. To show his appreciation for her hard work and loyalty, Bloom is building a nursery at the back of his shop for the baby Hamilton is expecting in November. When she returns to work after her time
Dan Dankert, formerly of D&D Insulation, at his desk at Tracy’s Insulation. Photos by Elizabeth Kelly
r manager of Tracy’s Kathy Hamilton, office tant Lauren Wilslow. Insulation and her assis
off, she can bring her baby with her whenever she wants to, he said. He is installing a video security screen so she can watch the baby, as well as a baby monitor, and equipping the nursery with a crib and all the necessities. “I told her to pick out a crib she likes,” he said. Some of Bloom’s employees have come into his company when he bought their company, he said. “This has been an interesting year,” he smiled. Bloom bought the Port Townsend company D & D Insulation and the former owner of D & D, Dan Dankert, now works for him. “This has worked out really well for both of us,” Bloom said. “Then by a request of our contractors, we opened a gutter division,” which also has worked out well. He explained that, because his company already has the necessary infrastructure, such as insurance and equipment, it’s been able to absorb a company that can’t afford to keep going because of the high cost of doing business. He added, “We are able to
See WARM, page 18
Romancing the Home 2010
Sequim Gazette
K A L N A BBUILDERS , INC.
Specializes in New Construction, Remodels & Garages Phone: (360) 681-2586 • Cell: (360) 460-7963 sbbalkan@msn.com balkanbuildersinc.com
P.O. Box 936, Carlsborg, WA 98324 Scott Balkan, Licensed & Bonded General Contractor
lic.#BALKAB1933DT
Buying or selling a home is a complex transaction . . . Seek the help of a professional.
BUY FROM A PROFESSIONAL REALTOR®... BORROW FROM US! 720 E. Washington, Suite 106 Sequim, WA 98382 683-2429 or toll free 1-888-683-2429 www.penmortgage.com
711 E. Front Street, Suite B Port Angeles, WA 98362 452-1200 or toll free 1-866-991-1200 www.penmortgage.com
Donate D t and d Sh Shop!! Donate or purchase new and used building supplies, home furnishings and appliances att Habitat for Humanity’s Store and help build more affordable housing for families in need right here in Clallam County...and keep usable items out of the landfill! item
You’ll find new and gently used merchandise up to 75% off retail
So Donate, Shop & Build! New Winter Hours: We Pick Up, too!
Open Wed. - Sat. 10 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
728 East Front St. • PORT ANGELES • 360-417-7543
HabitatReStore@wavecable.com m
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 17
Romancing the Home 2010
18 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Warm from page 16 give someone a job and keep them off unemployment.” The rain gutter division is doing very well, Bloom noted, and he is now able to be a distributor for “everything associated with gutters.” Another of Bloom’s mottos is that he wants “more friends than enemies.” He said he is not out to “dominate the market,” but to work with all the contractors. In January of this year, Bloom bought another company, L-Squared Insulation, Inc. of Ballard which specialized in closed cell spray foam insulation. In closed cell foam insulation, the cells are more tightly packed and this eliminates a breeding ground for mold because it eliminates the entry of mold spores and prevents moisture accumulation, he added. And since closed cell spray foam expands into the smallest cracks and holes it also prevents unwanted pest and insects. “It sets as hard as a rock,” he said, “and is state of the art — like the Lexus of all insulation.” The employees of L-Squared wanted
to buy the company but they couldn’t make it happen, Bloom explained. He sat down and met with the employees and they worked out a way they still can work under a division of Bloom’s company called Insulation Services, LLC. They service a wide area in Western Washington including Yakima, Wenachee, Olympia, Seattle, as well as Vashon and Mercer Islands. Bloom takes pride in his company’s opportunity to give back to the community by sponsoring sports teams and by being a part of the high school’s Future Builders program, sponsored by the NPBA. “Every year the students build one house and then sell it,” he said. Tracy’s Insulation donates the materials for both the insulation of the house, which is “a full notch above code,” and the gutters. “I’ll continue with this program as long as I can,” he said. Another dream came true for Tracy Bloom this year — he got married. Honeymoon pictures from Maui and pictures of his wife adorn the walls of his office. “This is my first time to be married,” he smiled, “and I’m very, very happy.”
Sequim Gazette
Owner Tracy Bloom displays a batt of eco-friendly insulation. All of Tracy’s Insulation’s products are “Green Guard Certified.” Photo by Elizabeth Kelly
Tracy’s Insulation 261372 Highway 101 Sequim, WA 98362 582-9600
THINK GREEN: Recycle Your Soil
HOME A Cozy, Full-Service Consignment Store Where You Always Feel at Home!
General Contractors Commercial & Residential Professional Results
EXCAVATING Boone’s Excavating now offers portable on-site screening, perfect for new construction sites, big or small. Lic. BOONEE1108M7
Boone’s Does All Phases of Excavating Sitework, from Start to Finish
Serving the Olympic Peninsula since 1966, 30+ years experience • Topsoil, landscape boulders, and river rock available • Driveway/parking repairs • Underground utilities & septics • Driveway rock/gravelling www.boonesexcavating.com email: mike@boonesexcavating.com
Mike & Brian Cameron
Cell: 670-1130/460-6026 Office: (360) 452-9392 • Fax: 452-7440
Antiques • Jewelry • Kids Corner Bridal Dresses & Formals Made-to-order knitted & crocheted items If you make things that would go in a good home, call us at Taking in new and nearly-new consigned goods as well! Hours: Mon. - Sat. 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
1006 W. 11th, Port Angeles, WA 98363 www.thegoodhomestoreinc.com
Sales • Installation • Service Custom Shower Doors & Enclosures Mirrors • Glass & Aluminum Deck Railings Mirrored Wardrobe Doors • Specialty Glass 63 Hooker Road Sequim, WA 98382 Bonded • Insured • Licensed
Tel: (360) 683-7471 Fax: (360) 683-1035 Email: psdmirror@qwestoffice.net
Sequim Gazette
Romancing the Home 2010
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 19
Romancing the Home 2010
20 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Sequim Gazette
McCrorie Carpet One is headquartered in Port Angeles. Sequim Gazette photos by Ashley Miller
Fabulous floors from a family owned company by Ashley Miller for the Sequim Gazette
John McCrorie owns and operates McCrorie Carpet One in Port Angeles, Sequim and Port Hadlock with his brother David McCrorie.
McCrorie Carpet One has a strong foothold in the North Olympic Peninsula flooring industry. Headquartered in Port Angeles with additional branches in Sequim and Port Hadlock, the family owned flooring store is the largest on the North Olympic Peninsula. Backed by Carpet One — the largest cooperative of independent flooring retailers in the world — McCrorie’s is fierce competition for similar businesses in the area. But it hasn’t always been that way. In fact, McCrorie’s started as little more than one man’s passion for building
furniture and the community he called home. Robert “Bob” McCrorie started selling furniture and floor coverings in 1949. Friends, family and customers encouraged him to open his own business. In the spring of 1958, his dream turned to reality with the grand opening of McCrorie Thompson, a furniture, appliance and flooring store. Years later, after working in retail for several years in Oregon, Bob’s son John McCrorie returned to the peninsula. His goal was to open a separate store concentrating on flooring and window covering to complement his father’s business. In 1988, with the help of his father, John started McCrorie Interiors, which later became McCrorie Carpet One. Joining the family empire, David McCorie opened a store branch in Port Hadlock.
Romancing the Home 2010
Sequim Gazette
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 21
McCrorie Carpet One
■ 547 N. Oakridge Drive, Port Angeles 457-7500 ■ 279 W. Washington St., Sequim 683-7500 ■ 11662 Rhody Drive, Port Hadlock 360-379-9500 Hours: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday and by appointment Website: www.mccrorie.com
Fifty-two years later, the business is owned by brothers John and David McCrorie, who spend every day striving to serve the community and honor their father’s legacy. “For me, it’s about friends, family and neighbors,” said John McCrorie. “These are people we see every day at the grocery store and at church on Sunday, and that’s something we take very seriously because we care about our community and the people in it.” As a child, John grew up helping his father at the store. He knows the ins and
See FLOORS, page 23
McCrorie Carpet One offers a large variety of carpet and offers binding, cleaning and installation among other services and products.
George E. Dickinson Construction Inc.
LIC#GEORGED098NR • Wains # 2146 Mfd. Installer Certified: #M100DICK1ge99IKA
Excavation & General Contracting • Land Clearing and Grubbing • Septic Systems • Site Prep • Manufactured Home Site Work • Snow Removal
116 Barnes Rd., Sequim, WA
Carpet & Upholstery Specialists
24/7/365
• Roads/Driveways • Grading • Utilities Locally operated since 1956
Call 360.683.8332
Emergency Service
Fire & Water Damage Restoration Specialists
C Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning
Recommended by Insurance Industry
• Carpet & Fabric Protection • Deep Soil Extraction • Truck Mount Extraction • Residential & Commercial • Area Rug Cleaning • Locally Owned & Operated
• 24-Hour Emergency Service • Residential & Commercial • Smoke, Odor, Soot Removal • Mold Remediation • Water Removal www.trisa.us
360 457 6759 ■
■
“Working with people to create beautiful homes and environments.”
ServiceMaster of the Olympic Peninsula
360-681-0722
877-277-0722
Contr. Lic #SERVI0P965R7 ©2010 ServiceMaster Clean. All rights reserved.
servicemasterclean.com
Romancing the Home 2010
22 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Together we make the most of what you have! • Interior Design • Real Estate Staging • Painting & Faux Painting • Color Coordination • Office Makeovers • Decorating Consultation • New Home Design
By Arrangement With Jean Redesign your home in a day...
Sequim Gazette
Specializing in home, office, automotive and marine upholstery FREE in-home estimates Foam & Fabric available This was the best thing I’ve ever done for my home! Jean has made my house warm and cozy” – Jolene, Sequim
360-797-0081
harpergenie@gmail.com • www.jeancameron.com
Scott A. Campbell , Owner afterhours.upholstery@q.com 20 Years Experience BY APPOINTMENT
Non-smoking Environment
360-417-8862
A storeful of top-quality appliances from domestic and European manufacturers
Building or Remodeling? We Offer Package Deals • Everyday Low Prices Reconditioned Appliances • Financing Options • Special Orders Welcome
Member of Nationwide Buying Group
CAFÉ SERIES RANGES
DISHWASHERS
FRONTLOAD WASHER/DRYER
• Dual Fuel • Double Oven • Convection
• Top Controls • Stainless Interior • Energy Star
• Energy Star • Stackable • 4 cu. ft. washer
HURRY in for the best deals and selection! U Line U-Line e
REFRIGERATORS
• Top Compressors • Custom Look • Made in U.S.A. Open: Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Your Appliance Pros Since 1946
Romancing the Home 2010
Sequim Gazette
F loors from page 21 outs of the business like the back of his hand. He speaks to his employees like they’re lifelong friends, asking how their parents are doing and listening to stories about their children. Customers at the Port Angeles branch are greeted by Lexie as they enter the store. Lexie is a friendly 5-year-old black Labrador who sits, stays and leaves the room on command. Every person — no matter what their age or background — who walks through door is treated like part of the family. “It’s easy to say we have great customer experience, it’s a lot harder to perform it on a daily basis,” John said. “We take care of our customers before, during and after the sale.” Services include design consultation, carpet binding, cleaning and installation, water damage restoration and repair, carpet re-stretch, do-ityourself supplies and assistance, free delivery within Sequim, Port Angeles and Port Hadlock, insurance claims and more. Beauty. Function. Value. McCrorie’s takes it all into consideration when helping a customer choose new flooring. Products include carpet, vinyl, linoleum, wood flooring, tile, laminate and window coverings. The “beautification guarantee” promises customers that they’ll love the way their new floor looks or McCrorie’s will replace it for free. While McCrorie’s is dedicated to supporting the local community — and regularly makes donations to several clubs and charities — the company also is focused on the global environment. Working in accordance with the Lacey Act, McCrorie’s only conducts business with hardwood floor manufacturers and distributors that legally harvest wood.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 23
“We don’t have to worry about the wood we use being illegally harvested now because we are assured that are distributors and their manufacturers are being responsible,”
— Mae Graves,
a Port Angeles office sales representative
Under the Lacey Act amendments included in the 2008 Farm Bill, imports of certain plants and plant products must be accompanied by an import declaration that contains, among other things, the scientific name of the plant, the value of the importation, the quantity of the plant and the name of the country from where the plant was harvested. The Lacey Act and its revisions continue to be a hot topic in the floor covering industry, but to the McCrories, it’s just reassurance that the products they buy are legitimate. “We don’t have to worry about the wood we use being illegally harvested now because we are assured that are distributors and their manufacturers are being responsible,” said Mae Graves, a Port Angeles office sales representative. “If we are going to cut trees down, we want to do it responsibly,” John added. Mae Graves, a McCrorie Carpet One sales representative, tidies up a display. Sequim Gazette photo by Ashley Miller
Carved in stone: timeless granite by Elizabeth Kelly for the Sequim Gazette
A good way to increase the value of your existing or new home is by adding granite countertops. One look at the lustrous sheen of polished granite often can be the decision-making point for a buyer. But the true value of granite in the home is that it is virtually indestructible. “Granite has been here on earth hundreds of millions of years,” said John Richerts, owner of Richerts Marble & Granite, Inc., in Sequim, and he added that it will be around for many years to come, “… longer than any of us will be
here. Most of the granite on earth today was formed around the same time,” he added. One of the hardest substances found, most granites rate around a seven on a Mohs mineral hardness scale. “Diamond are a 10, sapphires are nine, topaz rate an eight,” Richerts stated. The only thing that can scratch granite is something equally as hard, such as another piece of granite, or harder, like a diamond, he explained. To be designated as granite, the stone must contain mica, quartz and feldspar, Richerts said. Marble, a
See STONE, page 24
A granite sink made from a solid piece of granite. Photo by Elizabeth Kelly
Romancing the Home 2010
24 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Stone from page 23
softer stone, is almost pure calcium and travertine is made of limestone, he added. Starting out as a homebuilder, Richerts found that many customers were interested in installing granite countertops, shower stalls or entryways. That was when he began to realize he was drawn to working with stone. After building 10 homes, he decided to specialize in slab granite and marble and formed his company 13 years ago. His entrepreneurial business began in his garage at home and required him to build his own crane system and a hydraulic tilt table, using ingenuity and determination. “In those days, it was hard to get information from other fabricators,” Richerts explained. Granite is found all over the world in India, Italy, Brazil, Australia and elsewhere. In 2000, Richerts went to south central India, near Bangalore, looking for stone. “The main reason I went was to see about getting natural boulders to be
Sequim Gazette
Richerts Marble & Granite, Inc. 160 Banana Way, Sequim 683-5844 carved into sinks that matched the stone they were quarrying there at the time,” he said. No one here was making granite sinks then, he added. Then in 2001, he traveled to Verona, Italy, to the “biggest stone trade show in the world.” The trip to Italy proved to be highly educational for Richerts because it was there that he saw his first CNC machine (Computer Numerical Control). Working with a CNC machine then required an expertise in the complex G-Code, and for most stone fabricators, the learning curve was difficult. “You really needed to be a computer geek,” said Richerts. “A company could spend $200,000 to $300,000 on a CNC machine only to have it end up sitting on a work bench,” he said. But technology soon caught up with manufacturing and
See STONE, page 27
John and Susie Richerts in the Richerts Marble & Granite showroom.
Photo by Elizabeth Kelly
Green, Clean and Dry Carpets and Rugs are DEEP CLEANED, DRY and ready for IMMEDIATE USE! Advantages of Our Dry Extraction Cleaning System • All Natural - safe for people and pets • Deep Cleans while reviving matted carpet pile • Safe for all types of carpets including wool, oriental and sisal • No “over-wet” risk of shrinkage, split seams, mold or mildew • No sticky, soapy residue to attract dirt – carpet stays cleaner for longer • Removes odor, allergens and improves air quality • No wet padding beneath carpet
Specializing in • Natural fiber rugs and carpet including: wool, sisal, coir, jute • Expert spot removal
Serving Sequim & Port Angeles
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL • WOOLSAFE Certified Licensed • Bonded • Insured
360-460-2700
HOME • OFFICE • BOAT • RV
360-452-5025 1-888-276-6716
923 E. FIRSt, Port AngEles www.rootintootin.com
Sequim Gazette
Romancing the Home 2010
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 25
Visit Our Showroom CABINETS & COUNTERTOPS
For All Your Custom Cabinet & Countertop Needs Commercial & Residential
172 Valley Center Pl., Sequim Between Big 5 & Sears Open Mon-Fri 8am-4:30pm
360.683.9181
ARE YOU LOOKING TO BUILD, REMODEL OR MAKE IT GREEN? THEN START HERE. . .
WE’VE BEEN THERE. Our Color Made Simple® sample bottles, Certified Color Experts®, and Idea Cards give you exactly what you need to choose colors with confidence.
start right start here.com
NORTH PENINSULA BUILDING ASSOCIATION
is your resource for your building or remodeling project. Over 250 members representing various aspects of the construction industry are available to help. Look for Save these dates! the NPBA member logo. For a copy of our March 12 & 13, 2011 membership directory, email us at Sequim High School for info@npba.info, visit our the Building, Remodeling website: www.npba.info and Energy Expo. or call 452-8160. Come to see vendors & a live,
“Do Business with a Member.”
24-hour building competition featuring NPBA members!
Port Hadlock • 901 Ness Corner Road • 360-385-1771
Romancing the Home 2010
Sequim Gazette COMMERCIAL – RESIDENTIAL
Electrical Contractors Since 1978
CONTR#KIRSCE1032JW
26 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
SEQUIM (360)
PORT ANGELES (360)
683-6819
452-5377
• New N Construction • Mobile M Homes • Spa/Hot S Tubs • EElectric Heat • Retail Centers • Motels/Apartments • Security Systems • Remodels • Panel Upgrades • Energy-Efficient Lighting
Save money while you save the planet! We design and install solar & wind systems Easy on your wallet Easy on the environment!
“No Job Too Small!” Customer Service & Repair • Licensed • Bonded • Insured kirschelectric@gmail.com
NFIB
The Voice of Small Business®
C OMMERCIAL /R ESIDENTIAL
Quality Paint Inside & Out FREE ESTIMATES
Pamela Boyd NORTHWEST INSIDE OUT PAINTING, Inc. 3 6 0 - 4 6 0 - 0 3 9 2
NPBA Member
NORTHIO970LE
Anso® nylon resists staining and soiling and backs it up with lifetime* warranties! You can relax knowing your beautiful carpet will stay beautiful for years to come. Visit our showroom today to see jaw-dropping gorgeous carpet that will hold up to even the toughest stains by the messiest little helpers during the Fall Flooring Event! Hurr y in, these deals won’t last long.
(360) 457-1411 Toll Free 1-800-788-1411 1404 E. Front Street • Port Angeles www.fairchildfloors.com
shawfloors.com/fallsale
FLOORS
Sequim Gazette
Stone from page 24
that was when it became reasonable for Richerts to buy a CNC. “Now it’s just point and click,” he smiled. Expanding his business and upgrading his equipment meant a move from the garage to building his own shop in 2004. His location now in Carlsborg’s Industrial Park gives him not only a spacious shop for storing, milling and shaping stone, but also a welcoming, sunny showroom filled with examples of stone sinks, entryways, counter and table tops, as well as dozens of sample pieces for customers to chose from. Granite and marble come in a wide variety of colors: red, green, blue, beige, and blacks from salt and pepper to solid black. The large slabs are polished on one side and are on average approximately 5.5 feet by 9 feet and 1.25 inches thick. Susie Richerts, John’s wife, is the person most customers see first. She works not only as the office manager but also helps the customers with questions regarding stone choices for their projects. He explained that many customers bring in their own cabinet drawings and Susie draws them into their CAD (Computer Aided Design) program to work up an accurate proposal. She does the scheduling and basically “runs the show,” he said. Customers often pick out a stone from samples they have on hand, or “they can go to slab warehouses near the Seattle Design Center to pick out a special color they like,” Susie said. “I like working with customers to help them find exactly what they want. Certain colors or characteristics are very important to some people.” The many thank-you notes on their bulletin board prove she succeeds most of the time. In 2006, Richerts completed several large granite countertops for a major remodeling of 7 Cedars Casino east of Sequim. “It was a leap of faith project,” he said, “because we were under a time crunch to have the tops ready when the cabinets were installed.” Normally the cabinets would already be installed and the templates for the granite could be made from them. Because of close deadlines, the counters had to be fabricated before the cabinets were installed. The CNC machine cut and polished the granite by reading a
Romancing the Home 2010 file. “Everything had to fit,” Richerts explained, but everyone working on the project cared about the end result and worked together to perform a “miracle.” Both Susie and John Richerts are enthusiastic about the contractors and subcontractors they work with in the area. “We realize that a customer is doing without a kitchen (or other room in their home) until we finish,” Richerts said, “and we cooperate with plumbers, cabinet makers and all subcontractors to get the job is done.” All their work is done in their shop. Also working for the Richerts are Aaron Moore and Brian Whittaker. Moore has 15 years experience in working with stone and Whittaker has been with Richerts Marble and Granite for six years. The company not only works with granite, but also with marble, travertine and other stones. “Marble is used in entryways and bathrooms and we just finished a Carrara marble kitchen using honed marble (a matte-like finish),” Susie said. Installing granite in your house is a smart move, Richerts said, “not only for its unmatched beauty and incredible durability, but for the added value to your home.”
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 27
Granite pedestal and bowl on display in the showroom.
Piece of red granite
being sawed using a
template.
Photos by Elizabeth Kelly
Romancing the Home 2010
28 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Sequim Gazette
A little bit of this andthat Joan Chavez, left, and Karen Spence, right, owners of The Good Home Store, offer beautiful wedding dresses and gowns at budgetfriendly prices. Photos by Patricia Morrison Coate
by Patricia Morrison Coate
Home accessories such as this table and pair of lamps are some of the fun finds at The Good Home Store.
“With consignments, we decide if it’s something useful and appropriate for your home,” Spence said, Sequim Gazette staff cautioning, “and if you wouldn’t buy it, don’t give it. Bubbling with excitement that’s contagious, Joan And please make sure it’s in clean condition.” Chavez and Karen Spence welcome browsers and The women share more than a business partnership buyers to their thrift shop, The Good Home Store — their children are married to each other — and both Inc. in Port Angeles with an emphasis on “home.” believe in getting a bargain and American ingenuity. The pair confessed to having “houses full of stuff” That’s why after a year of consideration they took the from collectibles to extra everyday plunge and rented one of items that they could sell and consign Port Angeles’ landmarks, “We’ve had all positive for others. the 1887 Conrad House on comments. A lady told us we “We saw the need of people being West 11th Street, opening able to afford nice things at prices we had something unique here. We the shop in July. Within would pay for them and I also go online want people to feel like they’re the next year they intend to to see an item’s replacement cost and apply for a grant to rebuild coming into our own home.” then mark it down,” Chavez said. the Victorian home’s — Joan Chavez wraparound porch. In the meantime, Chavez and Spence have filled three of the downstairs rooms with vintage pieces, including kitchen utensils, china, postcards, glassware, linens and knickknacks, some arranged in vignettes. New items include crystal from Italy, Party Lite utensils, jewelry, neck pillows, baby clothes and blankets crocheted by Spence and other consignees, ministry books, Bibles, Christian CDs and local products such as jams. Lightly used goods depend on what comes in the door — the inventory changes often, Spence said. The women are especially keen on their lavenderhued bridal room brimming with gowns and holiday party dresses at budget-friendly prices. “If they want to have a fitting, they can do so privately,” Chavez said. A fourth room serves as her office for Karen’s
See THIS AND THAT, page 31 The store features a room with clothes, blankets and hats for babies.
Romancing the Home 2010
Sequim Gazette
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 29
#PENINP1981BQ
RICHARD PARKS
REMODELING CONSTRUCTION & DESIGN Our work has been featured in Architectural Digest, Southern Living Magazine and more
360-681-5345
www.peninsulaproperties.biz
en Electri e r g r e c Ev & Assoc. ltd • Residential & Commercial • Service Calls 683-4193 office • 460-7963 cell • 681-3539 fax sbbalkan@msn.com PO Box 517, Carlsborg, WA 98324 lic.#EVERGEA044NF
It’s not too late for paving!
at our new location
369 W. Washington Street Saving customers thousands! Bring your current home & auto coverage for a
QUICK COVERAGE COMPARISON!
Call for
FREE Estimates & Specials
Parking P ki available il bl in i front f and rear of building.
Lakeside is ready when you are, for less than you’d expect. • Commercial Port Angeles/Sequim (360) 452 452-7803 7803 • Industrial • Residentail Port Townsend (360) 385-4914
More Choices, Better Coverage, Great Service.
• AUTO A • HOME & RENTERS • COMMERCIAL • LIFE & HEALTH
369 69 W. Washington St. | Sequim | 360360-683-3355 -683-3355 | www.jimcarl.com -683
Romancing the Home 2010
30 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Large selection of CARPET REMNANTS at Huge Savings!
Sequim Gazette
My customers typically
SAVE HUNDREDS
of dollars on their homeowners and auto insurance. Let me give you no-obligation
Homeowners and Auto Insurance Quotes In this economy, it pays to shop and save wherever you can.
Come see our GREAT SELECTION of: • Paint • Wallpaper • Window Coverings
Check out our new Manufactured Home Insurance Policy
PAINTING CONTRACTORS Interior/Exterior Commercial/ Residential
BILL BAILEY BELL STREET INSURANCE
FREE Estimates
• Carpet • Laminate Flooring • Tile
Lic • Bonded • Insured
3142 Hwy 101 E., Port Angeles
440 West Bell Street | Sequim | 683-3397
360.452.7007
Modern Designs Traditional Kitchens
Custom Woodworking
Display Shelves and Cabinets
Classic Bathrooms Custom Furniture Pieces
For excellence in cabinet design, material selection, construction and finishes, call Rick Knodel at Endless Efforts Limited.
Rick Knodel 360-681-5321 391 W. Washington St., Sequim, WA 98382 Rick@EndlessEfforts.com
www.EndlessEfforts.com
Using the finest materials and woodworking skills, the result is quality cabinetry with an impressive range of styles, colors, woods, and hardware. Your design choices are virtually endless.
Sequim Gazette
Romancing the Home 2010
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 31
The Good Home Store Inc. 1006 W. 11th St., Port Angeles 457-0377 Hours: 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Saturday day
Fine china and goblets are some of the treasures to be found at The Good Home Store.
Several family members contribute to the store’s inventory, including Joan Chavez’s niece whoo makes this jewelry.y.
This and that from page 28
Photos by Patricia Morrison Coate
YOUR LOCAL
Insulation Experts
Accounting. When she’s not busy with clients’ books, Spence can make custom knitted or crocheted pieces — just pick your pattern and yarn colors and type. Since opening, Chavez said, “We’ve had all positive comments. A lady told us we had something unique here. We want people to feel like they’re coming into our own home.” Our experienced staff is trained and certified to serve you
Serving the entire North Olympic Peninsula CCompetitive ompe om peti pe titi ti tive PPrices tive rice ri ces ce es Residential, Commercial and Remodels Approved PUD & Weatherization Contractor Registered Clallam County Built-Green Contractor Licensed and Certified BIBS Contractor Proud Member, North Peninsula Building Association Licensed & Certified Closed Cell Spray Foam Contractor
Premium Insulation – Professional Installation Owner Ow wner Tracyy Bloom has over 20 years wne y of experience p in the insulation business busine sineess and his staff of 26 is big enough to handle any size project. y Insulation, Inc. works with the top premium insulation manufacturers. Their Tracy’s insulat solutions offer superior soundproofing, are fire and moisture resistant, and insulation no rot, decay or attract insects or rodents. will not Tracy’s y Insulation, Inc. features EcoBatt insulation with Ecose Technology... it contains no phenol, formaldehyde, acrylics or artificial colors. All of their products are Green phe p Guard Certified. Tracy’s y Insulation, Inc. offers clean-up from fire, water & rodent damage and will gladly vacuum out your old attic insulation. Tracy’s y Insulation, Inc. works with numerous contractors, builders & homeowners. See the list of references on their website. insulation system and to reduce high-energy costs, For a great g call us today. ~ NEW GUTTER DIVISION ~ ~ Free Estimates, Blueprints & On-Sites ~
Tracy s ’
NEW! Offering
CLOSED CELL Spray Foam Services as well as our sister company Insulation Services LLC
Licensed | Bonded | Insured LIC.#TRACYII917BT
Insulation , Inc. 261372 Hwy 101, Sequim Tracy Bloom Owner & President
582-9600
360 WWW.TRACYSINSULATION.NET
Romancing the Home 2010
32 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Sequim Gazette
Artwork
by Elizabeth Kelly for the Sequim Gazette
The earthy smell of finely sanded wood, the buzzing sound of a saw and the beauty of a spectacular variety of planed woods greet the senses when first entering JP Cabinets on Tumwater Truck Route in Port Angeles. The business has been at the same location for 20 years and owner Ryan Fraser has been at JP Cabinets since 1991. A family owned business, they have completed thousands of projects across the peninsula during that time. Fraser has been in carpentry and cabinetmaking for most of his life. “Except for a short break from 2003 to 2007 to do commercial construction,” Fraser said, “I’ve been right here.” He graduated from Post Angeles High School in 1991 and started working “right out of
high school,” he said. Working with a natural product like wood can be a satisfying career and Fraser is enthusiastic about his. “We try to use the greenest (environmentally) materials possible,” he said, “like bamboo.” A current favorite among many of his customers, bamboo wood is classified as a green product because it is a “rapidly renewable resource,” he explained. Bamboo is a solid, hard wood capable of growing into maturity in five years and grows abundantly in many parts of the world. There is no formaldehyde used in the processing of bamboo wood as there is in other woods, Fraser added, which adds to its eco-friendly value. Many types of colorful hardwoods are used in his cabinet business, including red and white birch, maple, hickory,
Protect your
CLEANING SPECIALS 3-ROOM CLEANING SPECIAL
$
8995*
15% OFF*
43.20
Up to 360 Sq. Ft. • Stairs Extra
One coupon per customer. Not valid with any other offer. Must present at time of cleaning. Expires 12/11/10
One coupon per customer. Not valid with any other offer. Must present at time of cleaning. Expires 12/11/10
RUG SPECIAL
20% OFF*
UPHOLSTERY CLEANING $ 95* SAVE
89
One coupon per customer. Not valid with any other offer. Must present at time of cleaning. Expires 12/11/10
$
49.95
Any sofa up to 8 ft. FREE chair or recliner cleaning with sofa cleaning!
All oriental & fine occasional carpet cleaning
One coupon per customer. Not valid with any other offer. Must present at time of cleaning. Expires 12/11/10
• Commercial & Residential • Certified/Uniformed Technicians • Multiple Service Vehicles for Quick & Efficient Service • No Dry Chemicals or Residue Left Behind • 24-Hour Water Restoration • Oriental/Area rugs • Tile & Grout Cleaning • Recommended by All Major Carpet Mills • Restretches & Repairs
Sequim 683-7500
LARGEST INVESTMENT
SAVE
$
& FREE Dupont Teflon carpet protection
Any RV upholstery & carpet cleaning
KUP FREE PIC RY & DELIVE
Photo by Elizabeth Kelly
See WOOD, page 35
Fall Carpet & Upholstery RV SPECIAL
Ryan Fraser, owner of JP Cabinets, in his office.
WHOLE HOUSE CLEANING $ 95* SAVE
189
$
96.00
& FREE Dupont Teflon Carpet Protection Up to 800 Sq. Ft. • Stairs Extra One coupon per customer. Not valid with any other offer. Must present at time of cleaning. Expires 12/11/10
www.McCrorie.com
Call today for an appointment
Peninsula Paint can help! SEQUIM: 154 West Washington (360) 681-3905
Our Other Locations to Serve You
POULSBO: 20530 Viking Way NW (360) 779-6995 PORT TOWNSEND: 315 Decatur St (360) 379-8025
$5 OFF
Port Angeles 457-7500
Per Gallon of any paint or stain in our stores. BENJAMIN MOORE • DEVINE SIKKENS • CABOTS Exp. 12/31/10
Sequim Gazette
Romancing the Home 2010
Turn your dreams into reality! Come visit our gorgeous stone design showroom and let new owner Greg Downing show you how to enhance the beauty, value and living space of your home. Hardscape & Masonry Materials • Boulders Natural & Cultured Stone • Wall Block • Pavers
THE Authority on Stone • www.TheQuarryPA.com
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 33
Romancing the Home 2010
34 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
One Change May Dramatically Reduce Your Energy Consumption.
Sequim Gazette
Kim Hayden Mortgage Banker kim.hayden@cobaltmortgage.com
direct: 360.379.1394 cell: 360.821.9397 24 HR Emergency Hazardous Tree Removal - Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late One Calltoll Doesfree: It All! 866.379.6425 360-460-0518
INSTANT COMFORT. GET UP TO A $1,000 INSTANT REBATE!* PLUS UP TO $1,500 IN FEDERAL TAX CREDITS** PLUS UP TO $2,000 IN UTILITY REBATE Imagine coming home every day to an environment that’s as fresh, clean, and healthy as it is comfortable. Now is the perfect time to make that a reality, with a Trane high performance heating and cooling system. And with 5.9% APR financing*, it’s never been so easy to own one. Or... Choose Up To A $1,000 Instant Rebate Or Zero Interest If Paid In Full Within 36 Months.*
#MLO-262007
Licensed • Bonded • Insured
112 Kala Square, Port Townsend, WA 98368
DISCOUNT CABINETS
of Washington, Inc. On-site Kitchen & Bath Design and Sales We sell America’s #1 & #2 Rated `Green’ Cabinets: • Omega (#1) • KitchenCraft • Fieldstone (#2) • Founder’s Choice • HomeCrest • Woodland
Left to right: Steve Cunningham, Lexie Colman, and owner Jere Colman
Phone: 360-683-9171 • Fax: 360-681-0554 P.O. Box 1973 • Sequim, WA 98382 • www.discountcabinetsofwashington.com
Just purchase your qualifying Trane system between August 15 and October 31, 2010. Maximum comfort, lower heating and cooling costs, and affordable payment options - that’s the Trane difference.
FREE ESTIMATES! Many options available.
Plus... Get up to $1,500 in Federal Tax Credits.** Ask your dealer for details. Hurry! Tax Credits end December 31, 2010. Interest will be charged from the purchase date if the purchase balance is not paid in full within the promotional period or if you make a late payment.* Energy prices have skyrocketed and so has demand for systems that cut usage. Trane’s XLi high efficiency systems are among the most cost-effective options available today. Maximum comfort and lower heating and cooling costs-that’s the Trane difference.
CALL NOW FOR NO INTEREST ON HIGH-EFFICIENCY TRANE EQUIPMENT. 683-3901 • 385-5354 Air Flo Heating www.trane.com License#AIRFL1206DG
• • • •
Custom Cedar Fence Split Rail Fence Vinyl Panel Fence Vinyl Rail & Picket Fence • Farm Fence • All types of chainlink fencing
Customized fencing to fit your budget and an your needs.
Lund Fencing Chad Lund, Owner
360-452-0755 www.lundfencing.com
We take customer satisfaction to the highest dregree. It’s Hard To Stop A Trane.®
Licensed, Bonded & Insured LUNDFF*962K7
Sequim Gazette
Wood from page 32 walnut, cherry and alder. These woods also come in various grains and some have knots or other distinguishing marks that offer a rustic look. As many as there are varieties of woods used, the styles of cabinetry made at JP Cabinets are endless, Fraser said. “A customer may see a cabinet design in a magazine or catalog and bring that picture in and we can custom build cabinets to size-specific from that picture,” he said. “Not everyone can describe exactly what they want, but a picture can help people explain to us what it is they want. A picture is worth a thousand words and we can match almost anything with a picture,” he said. “We use all raw materials and everything is made in the shop,” he added. A wide assemblage of table saws and other carpentry equipment necessary for the custom cabinetry work produced by Fraser and his crew can be seen in the expansive shop. Also filling in as office manage is Lynn Fraser, Ryan’s mother. Fraser said they have installed cabinets in new and existing homes, office buildings, boats, motorhomes and vehicles. “Everything is built to fit,” he said. JP Cabinets has a web page www. jpcabinets.net with samples of their craftsmen’s work, showing that the types of wood cabinets they manufacture are only limited by the imagination. The cabinets also feature numerous varieties
Here is an example of the fine work of JP Cabinets.
Romancing the Home 2010
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 35
JP Cabinets 302 Tumwater Truck Route, Port Angeles 457-9181 www.jpcabinets.net and styles of trims. It’s “artwork with wood,” Fraser smiled. A member of the North Peninsula Building Association, Fraser said his company is able to compete with any store in the area. “We take care of a job from start to finish,” he said, “including measuring, planning, design, on-site layout, delivery and all the necessary installation.” Working hand and hand with other contractors, such as electricians and plumbers, as well as with the customer, Fraser said that they are able to make sure everything comes together satisfactorily. The company philosophy is to “strive to be the best at what we do!” Fraser said that he takes great satisfaction in making people happy. “When we get done with a job and the customer is happy, they will send you a friend,” he said. “A lot of our business comes from that.” No one seems to know what the origin of “JP” is in the company’s name, Fraser said. “We like to say that it stands for ‘Just Perfect!’”
Photo courtesy of JP Cabinets
John Labbe, an employee of JP Cabinets, puts the finishing touches on a cabinet.
Ryan Fraser shows new cabinets to be installed.
Photos by Elizabeth Kelly
36 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Romancing the Home 2010
Sequim Gazette
Hygiene For Health®
HYGIENE FOR HEALTH® is the largest independent distributor and retailer of BIDET seats in North America. Our extensive inventory includes thousands of new products from a multitude of manufacturers. Established in 1990, we have been providing WORLDWIDE SALES AND SUPPORT for all major bidet manufacturers. We sell and service all of North America from our distribution, parts and repair facility in Sequim. Visit our website or showroom to find the bidet that is right for you.
Main Office and Showroom 71 Ruths Place #8, Sequim Phone: 360-681-0753 Email: ramblin@olypen.com Mon-Fri 8am-3pm
Wash & Dry at the touch of a button!
www.hygieneforhealth.com
Sequim Gazette
Romancing the Home 2010
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 37
Kirsch Electric goes solar by Patricia Morrison Coate Sequim Gazette staff
Electrical contractor Joe Kirsch wants customers considering solar power to know they don’t have to go off the peninsula anymore for their design and installation needs. Kirsch, owner of Kirsch Electric in Sequim with his wife, Terri, recently earned a certificate in solar electric fundamentals and grid direct design and already has installed several solar panel systems and a windmill. Code requires that a solar array system be designed and installed by a certified electrical contractor and Kirsch Electric has been one since 1978 when John Kirsch, Joe’s father,
Owner Joe Kirsch of Kirsch Electric in Sequim recently certified as a solar electric system designer and installer. Submitted photo
founded the business. The company’s nine electricians do everything from troubleshooting residential electrical problems to wiring large commercial projects such as Sequim’s Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites. “Installing solar panels is a field that’s starting to take off and with incentives, it makes it pretty feasible to invest in them, so it’s another field we want to get into because it has a lot of potential,” Joe Kirsch said. “People are trying to build homes that are more energy efficient and we want to be in on the ground floor.” Although they are a significant initial investment, solar systems are getting technologically better and less expensive due to supply and demand, Kirsch said, as homeowners see the value in long-term energy savings. Installing a solar array system begins with Kirsch and the customer working out a design specific to his or her home. “I do a site analysis, take a look at the best location to mount the panels on the roof and the customer’s
See KIRSCH, page 38
GOT WINDOWS? Beware the out-of-towner who sells windows door-to-door. He doesn’t have your best interest in mind.
Don’t miss out on
UTILITY REBATES $ 6/sq. ft.
WE DO! Here’s why Glass Services is Your Best Choice • Approved by Port Angeles City Light and Clallam County P.U.D. for window replacement rebate programs for 29 years. • Financing as low as 3.2%. • Superior products, installation & service. • Shop locally so your dollars stay on the Peninsula.
For replacement windows Ask us about an additional $1,500 tax credit!
Member FDIC
Build a Home Equity Line of Credit with U.S. Bank.
Remodel the kitchen. Build an extra bedroom. Finish the basement. It’s all on the house with a home equity line of credit from U.S. Bank. A home equity line of credit gives you the money you need to do the things you want. US. Bank can custom build a line to fit your needs and your budget. So gather up your tools because our skillful bankers are waiting to fix-up your line today!
255652 Highway 101 • Port Angeles, WA 98362 360-452-1155 • Fax: 452-9637 Contr. Reg.#GLASSSC176DH
Sequim Branch 101 W. Washington (360) 683-3366
www.usbank.com
Port Angeles Branch 134 E. 7th (360) 457-1183
Romancing the Home 2010
38 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Kirsch from page 37 average PUD bill,” Kirsch said. “I design a system to supply 75 percent, 50 percent or 25 percent of their total electricity needs. A grid-tied system feeds the excess electricity back to the grid and customers are recompensated by the PUD. People really like that because they can save on average up to $100 a month.” After he’s laid out a design, Kirsch gives the customer two or three quotes based on the percentage of total
electricity the solar system will supply and said he tries to encourage allowing for an expansion of the system in the future. “Then I start installing the panels on the house or at alterative location on the property. It’s like wiring a home — it is an electrical system — the basics are
Sequim Gazette l into an array.
Electrician Josh Sutherland places a solar pane
Submitted photos
Kirsch Electric 503 S. Third Ave. Sequim 683-6819 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
really plain and simple, but people have peace of mind when their contractor has some sort of training. There’s a lot of educating the public that we’re capable of doing it and that we want a piece of the market.” Over its 32 years of business, Kirsch Electric has served the Sequim community and Joe and Terri Kirsch said they feel blessed to do so. Whether it’s changing smoke detector batteries for seniors, donating labor and expertise to Habitat for Humanity projects for a decade or troubleshooting electrical problems with customers over the phone, Kirsch Electric plans to build on its reputation for customer service and community involvement while offering state-of-the-art alternative energy systems.
Sutherland puts on the final touches before flipping the switch on a freestanding solar array system.
We Can Solve Your Plumbing, Drain & Sewer Problems
Gary’s Plumbing SEWER & DRAIN CLEANING Since 1965
REMODEL • REPIPE • REPAIR Residential & Mobile Homes SEWER & DRAIN LINES JETTERS • SEWER CAMERA SEWER LINE LOCATING WATER HEATERS BUILT-IN VACUUM CLEANERS
Antique Furniture Restoration, Refinishing
Art Glass...
stained and acid-etched
360.681.4334
360-681-2442 EMERGENCY SERVICES AVAILABLE
WA State Journeyman #COLLIBG0030 Licensed - Bonded - Insured
(360)457-8249
PO Box 255 • Port Angeles, WA 98362
220 CARLSBORG RD.
LIC# PENIN*961CF
SLIDING SCREENS
SCREEN DOORS
WINDOW SCREENS
CUSTOM SCREENS
ROLLAWAY SCREENS
SOLAR SCREENS
PET SCREENS
SCREEN ROOMS
Sequim Gazette
The
Romancing the Home 2010
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 • 39
Only Room Where...
...The Family Still Talks!
With today’s busy demands, you can provide a sanctuary for good food and good conversation
The Mango Collection Enjoy rustic elegance in solid sustainable Mango Hardwood. Mango Counter Table or Dining Table each with 6 stools/chairs
YOUR CHOICE .......... $99999
Also available in stock: Counter Bench $16999 Server .............. $69999
Dining Bench ........ $10999 • Server ...... $69999
ABACO Counter Height Dining The warmth and beauty of butcher block with an 18” butterfly leaf. $ 99 Table and 6 chairs ................................... Server available ................................................................. $79999
999
TULSA Gathering Place Timeless traditional beauty in an upscale counter height design. Includes a creative storage base and a self-storing butterfly leaf. $ 99 Table and 6 chairs .................................. Bench available ......................................................................... $29999 Server available ........................................................................ $74999
999
Awww.angelesfurniture.com NGELES FURNITURE 1114 East First • Port Angeles • 457-9412
40 • Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Romancing the Home 2010
♦ North Peninsula’s #1 builder of sunrooms, solariums and garden rooms. ♦ Sun control specialists of windows, awnings and solar screens - motorized and manual. ♦ Patio design experts: glass, wood or aluminum patio covers, glass railings and wind walls.
Call (360) 681-2727 LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED 141 TIMBERLINE • SEQUIM, WA
www.asodinc.com
Sequim Gazette