Hawaii Renovation May 6 2012 by Oahu Publications, Inc

AN EDITION OF

HAWAIIRENOVATION.STARADVERTISER.COM

MAY 6, 2012

With Bonterra Solar leading the way, many homeowners are producing clean, green energy these days through the company’s unique and affordable group installation plan. See page 3

INSIDE:

TIPS FOR SWEEPING AWAY YOUR HOME’S NEGATIVE ENERGY. See page 2

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often get calls to perform house blessings because of stagnant energy. While blessings can help clear out old energy and revitalize the space in a positive way, a blessing is not always what is needed. One woman contacted me recently and asked me to perform a blessing because she felt her home needed fresh energy. Everyone in the house seemed to be tired, unmotivated and stuck in some area of his or her life. The woman read somewhere that a blessing or a “space

clearing” could help. When I got there, I did the blessing and “cleared” the energetic atmosphere, but I felt that what she really needed was a good old-fashioned cleaning. Her floors, furniture, shelving, corners, plants and countertops were extremely dusty and grimy. The physical aspect of a home is just as important as the energetic aspect.

is good for peace and rest in the form of dim lighting, in the form of uncleanliness, it draws our energy down. The more dust, the more negative and draining, rather than invigorating and revitalizing. No wonder the family felt as they did. Even though the home had no clutter, another source of low energy, it was coated with dust for literally years.

Yin energy

Clean home energy

Dust, dirt and grime are considered “yin” energy. While yin energy

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awaii homeowners looking to save money and reduce their electricity bills by installing solar photovoltaic systems can get even more bang for their buck by teaming up with neighbors, friends or family and taking advantage of a unique group installation plan. Bonterra Solar, one of the fastest growing solar energy companies in Hawaii, is offering the Green Group Discount, a plan that helps connect homeowners to make solar installation easy and more affordable. When three or more neighbors — or even friends or family — sign up for new PV systems on their homes, Bonterra will give them the Green Group Discount, a significant savings on solar panels and installation. “The Green Group Discount is already under way in Mililani, where a group of eight neighbors decided to band together and all get new

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solar PV systems installed,” said Bonterra founder and principal Andrew Yani. “Not only did we give them a great group deal for signing up together, but we decided to make group deals a major part our service to island residents.” So far, five of the eight Mililani solar systems have been installed, and those homeowners already are real-

izing savings. The remaining neighbors will have their systems in just a few weeks. In addition to using group purchasing power to secure discounts, the Mililani homeowners also took advantage of Bonterra’s special financing options, which allowed them to lease the solar system with no upfront investment. “The Green Group Discount doesn’t just apply to

geographical areas,” Yani said. “Families and friends spread out across the island can join together and take advantage of the savings. And they know that by uniting, they are helping to keep Hawaii on a path to clean energy. So with Bonterra, the group that goes solar together, saves together!” But there’s an added community bonus to Bonterra’s group plan. Since it was formed in 2009, Bonterra Solar has pledged a hot water system to every Honolulu Habitat for Humanity home. In the rapidly growing solar industry, Bonterra has quickly climbed the ranks of Hawaii’s solar providers. Now in its third year, Bonterra has reached more than $6.5 million in sales, and Yani and the Bonterra team have become among the Island’s most trusted solar professionals. Along with working with Habitat for Humanity, Bonterra was selected as the exclusive solar photovoltaic installation company for

Gentry Homes, and it also works with other residential developers, such as Hunt Construction, to provide high-quality solar photovoltaic systems. Bonterra also assisted the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands in the development of Kaupuni Village in Waianae, the first net-zero community in the nation. Bonterra installed the solar systems on each of the 19 homes in Kaupuni Village, and continues to work closely with the homeowners to provide seminars and educational presentations to help the residents learn how to maintain energy-efficient homes. “Just as the sun gives up its rays to create affordable energy, Bonterra gives back to the community,” Yani said. For Yani and his team, Bonterra Solar’s Green Group Discount is more than a commercial venture. Bringing solar power to homes is an important part of helping Hawaii reduce its dependency on imported oil, while promoting clean, affordable energy in the Islands. Bonterra Solar is located at 4218 Waialae Ave. #A203 in Honolulu. For more information on Bonterra Solar’s Green Group Discount, visit www.bonterrasolar.com or call 548-7657 (SOLR).

MAY 6, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 3

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Custom cabinetry

built to last

ne of the mistakes that many homeowners have made in the last decade is failing to consider the longterm quality, safety and lifespan of their new kitchen renovations. In the last decade, the trend has been to sacrifice on the long-term quality, safety and lifespan of renovations for the lowest price possible. Many of those homeowners have been discovering problems with their kitchens in the last several years, causing a reversal of that trend. Those same homeowners are replacing their kitchens again, understanding the importance of long-term quality, safety and longevity. Many of the lowestpriced cabinets used in kitchen renovations

CSDESIGN BUILDERS ADDRESS: 220 PUUHALE ROAD #B1 CONTACT: 847-8711 • www.CSDesignBuilders.com over the last 10 years have been manufactured in China, notorious in the news for cutting corners to the point where oftentimes the resulting products are unsafe to use in homes. Stories of no quality control in the factories are familiar to homeowners. Many factories turn out substandard wood filled with voids and patches; or wood contaminated with toxic and cancercausing chemicals like formaldehyde, sulfur, lead and other resins, which are illegal for American manufacturers to use because they are

banned by the EPA and the CARB initiative. Oftentimes these cabinets simply start falling apart or warping after a few years because they were not produced correctly or with care. Finishes are thin and inconsistent, drawer fronts bow away from the wood underneath, and the cabinets are out-of-square and don’t fit. Hardware is made from cheap, stamped light-gauge metal and fails quickly. Today’s trend is steering away from these cheap, unsafe cabinets and toward quality American-made cabi-

netry, understanding that the safety and longevity of the products are well worth it. Also, when considering the total cost of a renovation, many times the total is only 10 to 20 percent more. CS Design Builders is a specialist in high-quality, American-made cabi-

netry made of sturdy plywood boxes of up to 3/4 inch thickness and environmentally friendly and safe materials. They have custom hand-made finishes and craftsmanship with exceptional care in manufacturing and assembly. This ensures your kitchen will not only be built with quality, safeBefore

ty and longevity, but also will be exactly what you want in look, color, design and feel. CS Design Builders can help you design, select and build your dream kitchen unique to you, and provide you with a kitchen that is safe for your family, built with quality and warrantied for its lifetime. After

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HAWAIIRENOVATION Entries were judged on creativity, use of materials, environmental and sustainability, functionality, design principles, value, interior space, overall quality and workmanship. The highlight of the ceremony was recognizing the top four Overall Grand Awards and the Carl Reppun Award. Today’s column features the winner of the Carl Reppun Award, named after the Renaissance Awards program’s first chairman. Carl Reppun was a pioneer in prefabricated cabinet distribution in the 1980s, the first distributor of Diamond Cabinets and supplied cabinets to small-volume remodeling contractors. This award is given in his memory to a small volume remodeler, and this year’s winner was Emery Construction Inc. in the New Residential division for “Kailua Lake House.” This open and inviting island-style house, built by Emery Construction Inc. and Brooks & Brooks Inc., is located on Kailua lake-front property, maximizing its wonderful views of Enchanted Lake and Mount Olomana.

A HOUSE TO

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BIA-HAWAII

he BIA Renaissance Building and Remodeling Awards, established in 1986, celebrate excellence in design and construction of new and remodeled projects in Hawaii. This showcase recognizes competing categories of Details, Kitchen & Bath, Landscaping, New & Remodeled Commercial Building, New & Remodeled Residential

REMODELERS Building, Public Works, Hawaii BuiltGreen™, Historical and Innovative Design & Construction. The 27th annual awards ceremony was May 2, and 38 entrants from Hawaii, Maui and Oahu represented an exciting year of statewide participation.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

SPRUCING UP

YOUR KITCHEN By Kyle Galdeira

GOLDENCABINETS

ince opening its doors in 2007, Golden Cabinets has gained a reputation for offering quality, affordable cabinetry to Hawaii’s consumers. Owner Wayne Cao noticed how expensive it had become to purchase cabinets in Hawaii and sought to bring more affordable options to residents looking to either build from

ADDRESS: 2959 KOAPAKA ST. CONTACT: 836-8181 • www.gcgchi.com scratch or remodel existing spaces. “When we transform a client’s outdated kitchen into a new, more functional kitchen, it is most satisfying see-

ing their face and hearing how much their whole family enjoys this new element in their home,” Cao says. Golden Cabinets offers a wide variety of wood selections when it comes to designing cabinetry. The Luxurious Cherry offers consumers a fine-grain wood with a smooth texture and satiny feel. The option closely resembles the coveted Koa wood appearance, and is usually finished with a medium or dark stain to bring out the wood’s mahogany-red tones. Cherry is integral to defining the Shaker, Mission and country-style cabinets offered at Golden Cabinets. Other styles of Cherry wood offered at Golden Cabinets include the Royal Cherry — the company’s top-of-theline wood option — as well as Golden Cherry, which offers consumers a lighter tone of wood with the same strength as its darker alternatives. Honey Maple is another popular choice among buyers looking for a hard wood (this hard maple is also used in making hardwood floors and bowling alley lanes) that can provide the perfect combination of durability and beauty. Design consultant LauraJon “LJ” Cornel suggests utilizing White Oak as a way to brighten a room, as the wood’s white stain and lacquered finish last longer than paint, which tends to peel off at a faster rate.

Golden Cabinets also offers a wide range of cabinetry options, including 30- and 40-inch wall cabinets as well as the option of including glass panels as an added artistic element. Special orders are welcomed, and Cornel says that some other possibilities include modifying office areas, adding closets or sprucing up a garage or lanai with various cabinets and storage elements. “It feels great when you can sell someone all-plywood construction cabinets with Cherry wood doors, beautiful cabinetry, for an extremely unbelievable price,” says Cornel when describing Golden Cabinets’ ability to offer quality products and service at affordable prices. “They can upgrade their kitchen and make it nice — they don’t have to live with particleboard cabinets that are falling apart. We can help somebody do the projects that they may otherwise not be able to afford.” According to Cao, Golden Cabinets plans on offering more door styles, wood species and cabinetry selections in the near future. “We truly appreciate each and every one of our clients who (has) given Golden Cabinets the opportunity to fulfill their cabinetry needs,” he says. For more information or to speak with a design consultant, call 836-8181 or log on to gcgchi.com.

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Take advantage of HCFCU’s Owner/Builder Construction Loan s the real estate and business lending subsidiary company of Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union (HCFCU), CU Network Services has carried on the credit union philosophy of “People Helping People.” Even with the challenges of today’s economy and uncertain future of the housing market, CU Network Services is able to find innovative ways to help members achieve their financial goals, including becoming a homeowner. Unfortunately, the high prices of homes in Hawaii can be discouraging to a potential buyer. But what about building your own home? A CU Network Services “Owner/Builder Construction Loan” has become a popular option. If you, a trusted friend or family member has a construction background, this loan program will enable you to

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MAY 6, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 7

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All about flooring O

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ne sure fact about the flooring market in Hawaii is that it is very competitive and the choices seem to be never ending. There are a multitude of retailers, products and installers to choose from. Oftentimes salespeople don’t help, either. Many of them have little or no product knowledge and may be coming at you with confusing facts, figures and pressure to buy. It’s enough to make someone stick with their 20-year-old carpet just a little longer. But there is help. If you are building new, remodeling or just freshening up, Shirley Pai Hilton of Pacific Imports International would like to help you with some unbiased information on products and installation, so that you can make the right choice for the person who matters — you! Hilton says that the first thing to remember is to always buy quality in your price range. The old adage of getting what you pay for applies doubly in a competitive market. Vendors will try to get your attention and money by offering an amazingly low price, but that’s because they didn’t pay much for it either. What has usually been sacrificed is hardiness and longevity. What good does it do if you have to buy another floor in just a few years? No one is saying to purchase a real wood floor when you can’t afford one, but shop for a good quality laminate to give you years of satisfaction. Always look for a good warranty on materials; about 25 years for home use should be right. Another piece of advice from Hilton is to always look

for integrity in the company you are dealing with. You may have a written contract, but good customer service is usually not one of the listed contractual obligations. Who are the owners and what are their backgrounds? The Better Business Bureau is one place to start, but also ask your friends and family and request past customer references. You can do your own cost-free sleuthing with a quick check on Google or Hoohiki as well. It also is interesting to note that good, knowledgeable salespeople are a direct reflection of the company’s openness and attention to detail. That person should be able to offer you good information that will help you make an informed decision. Always walk away from high pressuring, badgering salespeople who call or text you incessantly. They definitely don’t have your best interest at heart. And Shirley says that even before you venture out into the Hawaii flooring forest, get a basic education by attending her Wood and Stone Flooring 101 seminar, now held monthly because of popular demand. The 90minute session has been attended by hundreds of Hawaii consumers who always exclaim about how much they enjoyed it and how much they learned. It will give you the tools to begin chopping through that forest and really see the trees (no pun intended). Pacific Imports will hold its first evening session of Wood and Stone 101 this coming Wednesday at 6 p.m., and the next Saturday seminar is scheduled for May 19. Both will be held at the company’s showroom located at 926 Kohou St. Call 847-7711 to reserve a seat.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION Spend time at the corners Next, go to all the corners. Clean every corner, including in the closets and cabinets, and especially where your walls meet, the most powerful corners in your home. By cleaning the corners, you get the greatest energetic rate of return.

Tackle the bathroom

DUSTING OFF NEGATIVE ENERGY AT HOME FROM PAGE 2

ports prosperity, efficiency and relaxation. Think about how you feel when you walk into a clean home. Do you feel sad and depressed, or do you feel light and filled with possibility? Some people tell me they use incense to burn off yin energy, but when the yin energy is in the form of uncleanliness, a housecleaning is the answer.

is a shallow grave with two open ends. So if you find yourself in one, do everything you can to get out of it. Set aside a time to clean. If you do not schedule a time to do it, it is not real, and you will never get around to it. Here are suggestions to remove the negative yin energy caused by dust and grime:

Hire someone to help Old dust, old energy When you have a lot of dust in your home, you are in a rut, hanging onto old unsuccessful energy. A rut

Most people immediately say, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afford to hire someone.â&#x20AC;? However, in my line of work, energy equals money. If you have low

energy, you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be optimally productive. If you choose to put out energy (money) to hire someone to do what you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to, you will gain energy in another form and feel inspired to be productive.

Think â&#x20AC;&#x153;topâ&#x20AC;? If you insist on doing the cleaning yourself, start by going to the top. Dust loves to settle on top of all our things: cabinets, shelves, refrigerators, computers, baseboards, artwork, counters, etc. Have a â&#x20AC;&#x153;topâ&#x20AC;? day and clean the top of everything.

Bathrooms are a place of transition â&#x20AC;&#x201D; where you go from dirty to clean. If the bathroom is dirty, you will have a harder time navigating transitions in your life. Wipe the mirrors and get the dust off the top of the toilet tank.

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DO IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME BY CAROLINE WRIGHT

Toyama Roofing Service stands behind its work with a seven-year workmanship warranty — the ROOFING maximum allowed by Hawaii state law. Combined with the manufacturer’s material warranty, which ADDRESS: 1321 HART ST. usually runs from 20 to 30 years, Toyama’s workmanship warranty, backed by his company’s CONTACT: 847-6265 longevity, is a commitment to quality designed to bring homeowners peace of mind. It can be easy to spot The average lifespan of a new roofing company is the need for roof only about 3.3 years, according to the National Roofing replacement, Toyama Contactors Association. Over the years, Toyama has explained. “The first been hired by quite a few homeowners whose roofs obvious sign of trouble were poorly installed by companies that went out of might be a leak. And if business, even before their workmanship warranties your roofing is getting expired. old, or if you see pieces “The fact that we’ve been in business for 32 years — of your roofing on the I think that says a lot about our company!” Toyama ground after a heavy said with pride. wind or rain, you’ll know that you should have somebody climb up on your roof and take a look at it.” ROOFING SERVICE Toyama learned the roofing trade from his father-inOver 30 Years of Roofing Experience! law, Nobu Kageura, with whom he worked for 10 years Island before launching his own business. Kageura, who Wide Service passed away in 2007 at the age of 91, set an example that Toyama has tried to follow in his own business. “He taught me to take care of my customers,” Toyama said, “and that sometimes we all make mistakes. But when you do make a mistake, you must make TEAR OFFS TO SHINGLES...WE DO IT ALL!! sure you follow up and take care of the problem.” As a licensed and certified roofing company, R.S. Cont. Lic. #C10748 1321 Hart St. #7

R.S.TOYAMA

he average roof is designed to last for about three decades. That’s why a good roofer rarely visits the same house twice — unless he’s still around when it’s time to replace the roof he installed three decades ago. Raymond Toyama, owner of R.S. Toyama Roofing Service in Honolulu, said his phone started ringing after he began advertising in this publication. “Many people saw my name in the newspaper and called me and said, ‘Hey, you’re still in business? I want you to come and replace my roof!’ I did their jobs maybe 20 or even 30 years ago! They thought I’d retired.” With a crew of six skilled roofers, one administrative employee and a schedule that keeps them all quite busy, Toyama is anything but retired. Launched in 1979, his company specializes in roll roofing, slate, tile and composition shingles for residential structures, and has become known for quality craftsmanship and competitive pricing.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

START YOUR

RESEARCH ON

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he photovoltaic industry has been booming over the last few years. Most people now know what solar photovoltaics (PV) are, as they can be seen on rooftops throughout the state. As the price of electricity rises, more and more of us are considering PV systems for our own homes. Because a PV system is a big investment, we should do our research before committing to a specific solar provider, especially since PV companies are a dime a dozen. So what should we be concerned about when considering PV? First of all, what qualifies a company to install a PV system? The proper licensing is a necessity. To install PV, a C-13 electrical license is a must. There are a few ways to check online if a company has the proper licensing. Searches can be done through pvl.ehawaii.gov/pvlsearch/app or hawaii.bbb.org. A qualified electrician can tell you if your service needs to be upgraded, if your grounding system is up to par or if any electrical modifications should be made to accommodate the PV system. After all, you will be producing your own power and there is a lot of electrical wiring involved. Next, getting several estimates from different companies is always a good idea. From these estimates we can compare pricing and materials. Are the materials being used comparable to one another? Some companies may use roof flashings, while others may not. A properly installed flashing will ensure a leak-free roof penetration. After all, the bigger the system, the more roof penetrations will be made. Another important factor to consider is the PV panel manufacturer. PV panel manufacturers also are a dime a dozen. Manufacturers may require certain specifications for their panels, but how long have they been producing solar panels? Alternative Electric proudly installs Solar World Sun Modules. Solar World is America’s largest solar manufacturer with more than 35 years of experience in the solar production industry. A PV system is a wise investment, but it’s more than just installing panels on a roof. Homeowners should do

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ALTERNATIVEELECTRIC CONTACT: 630-6741 • 285-3663 their homework before installing a system. After all, a PV system should last at least 25 years. Time spent researching will pay dividends for the lifetime of the PV system. For a free PV estimate/consultation, give Alternative Electric a call at 630-6741 or 285-3663.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION to offset their income, they decided to invest their money in a photovoltaic system. All G CONTACT: 531-2554 Electric worked closely • info@allgelectric.com with the Namuos to cre• www.allgelectric.com ate and install a system specific to their needs, and now they enjoy a $40 electric bill (in March), not to mention more frequent use of their split air conditioning system. With the cost of gas steadily on the rise, electric vehicles look more appealing to Hawaii drivers. Kevin Lee, a local self-employed massage therapist, realized the Their monthly electric cost to commute to all his increases affect them. exceeded $500. appointments was beStephaine and Lance bill Namuo, parents to two Additionally, during the coming a burden because teenage boys in a typical six months prior to of increasing gas prices. PV, the This started to affect the local family of four, installing became tired of seeing Namuos watched their profit from each session. their monthly electric bill electric bill creep up He needed to do somegrow to the equivalent of almost $75 from HECO thing quick. Lee’s realizaa car payment. Most of alone, even though elec- tion compelled him to their consumption was trical consumption stay- invest in an electric vehiattributed to their two ed the same. Realizing cle. His Mitsubishi ifreezers, dryer use, inter- they live in an area with MiEV allows him $7,500 sun exposure in federal tax credits and mittent air conditioning ideal use and most of all, their (Waianae) for making $4,500 in state tax credteenagers leaving every electricity, and that they its, not to mention other electronic device on. could use the tax credits electric vehicle perks like

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ith the cost of electricity and gas on the rise, going green seems to make more and more sense these days. In fact, with the current state and federal tax credits, it seems like a better investment than most traditional savings or investment plans out there. Homeowners are becoming proactive and taking control of how these never-ending price

free metered parking in state, city and county lots, at the airport and at UH Manoa campus. More importantly, he enjoys a lowered HECO rate in the evening to encourage charging at night (approximately six cents per kilowatt hour). He was even more excited

when ALL G Electric, which previously installed a photovoltaic system on his house, was able to help him install the charger for his new electric vehicle at a more reasonable rate than what the dealership would’ve charged. Lee was able to purchase the charging station himself and hire his own qualified electrician, whom he knows and trusts to install it. Doing this allowed Lee to receive significant savings in comparison with the prices charged by the dealer’s installer. All G Electric was able to apply for his permit, install the unit and pass all required inspections. Kevin now enjoys keeping his money in his pocket, helping the environment and driving his new car. Whoever said a car was a bad investment? Call 531-2554 (ALLG) to find out how All G Electric can help you start keeping the money in your pocket!

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

TIPS FOR WEEKEND WONDER PROJECTS prucing up your home doesn’t have to mean spending huge amounts of time and money. In fact, there are many projects that you can complete in a weekend that will improve the look and feel of your home. With a little guidance and the right tools, you can easily get your home in top shape by Monday morning.

Paint refresh Commonly recognized as one of the most easy and cost-effective interior updates, painting is a weekend project that can completely transform the aesthetic of your home. When purchasing paint, a quality product will ensure your end results are beautiful. Low-quality, inexpensive paint will likely require a number of coats to get the coverage needed — resulting in more time and money spent. To avoid increased time and cost, use a premium line of paint like Pratt & Lambert’s Accolade, which guarantees excellent hide and outstanding durability.

Lighting update

Tired of the same old lamps sitting on your end tables, but don’t have the funds to revamp your lighting decor? A new lamp shade will completely change the look of any piece. You also can easily transform pieces by renewing the lamp bases; a quick walk down the spray paint aisle will show limitless possibilities of colors and finishes.

Accessorize Adding trendy, fun accessories will give any room a new and more put-together look. Think vases and bowls, wall art and rugs. When adding accessories, look for colors that complement what is already in the room. Plants and flowers can also add energy and color, some with the bonus of a pleasant aroma.

Furniture renewal

A SHOWCASE FOR NEW HOMES FROM PAGE 5

The first level has an open floor plan with the kitchen, dining, living and family rooms flowing toward the covered lanai, which offers an unobstructed view of the lake. Polished concrete flooring and the 9-foot, 6-inch-high ceilings allow 8-foot windows and doors to create a spacious atmosphere. The state-of-the-art kitchen has African mahogany cabinets inlaid with mango and Labordorite blue granite countertops.

Second level bedrooms feature lake views, custom built-in storage and tiger wood floors. Old-style Kailua design elements include wood board and batten on the exterior walls with lava rock bases, a wood-shingle roof with copper gutters and casement windows and wood louvers above the doors to capture trade winds. Karen Nakamura is executive vice president/ CEO of the Building Industry Association of Hawaii.

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MAY 6, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 13

HAWAIIRENOVATION

tems and should not be considered safe, in-place solar systems. Make sure you are provided with third-party testing that confirms the system is 120mph tested, not 120-mph rated, otherwise your system may not handle highwind conditions.

• Does the system installation come with a maintenance program? Your investment needs to be maintained and your PV system needs attention to prevent module failures. Pay close attention to the wiring, inverters and roof penetrations.

THINGS TO CONSIDER

WHEN BUYING A

PV SYSTEM acific Islands Construction has found that there are many things one should know prior to choosing a photovoltaic system. Knowledge about the products and the company that will be installing the system are just part of the story. The following is information you should request from venders:

• Know the financial strength of the product manufacturer. Solar module manufacturers are losing millions of dollars because of Chinese manufacturers flooding the market with low-cost products. These companies’ stock prices have lost most of their value. One U.S. company lost more than $750 million last year and started closing manufactur-

PACIFICISLANDS CONSTRUCTION CONTACT: 841-7756 • pacificislandsconstruction.net ing plants this year. Know the company you are buying from and do your homework. Only about 10 companies worldwide will survive in this market over the next five years, with more than half of them being Chinese. • Warranties are sales tools used by companies to convey the false idea that something is guaranteed when it is not. Ask for a copy of the warranty prior to purchasing, so you can read the limita-

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tions. If the company goes out of business, you’ll have no protection for product failure. • Does the installation include roofing industry details for roof penetrations? Many installers are voiding roof warranties by using substandard roof penetration detailing that will eventually cause the roof to leak. • Has the racking system that holds the modules on the roof been tested by an independent third party to verify the system will stay in place when there are high winds? Systems relying on a single bolt every so many feet are attached to a “unistrut channel.” These have not been tested as complete sys-

• Know the financials of your investment. Tax credits are just a small part of the picture you will be looking at. For example, high-quality modules will outperform low-quality equipment over a lifetime, making the investment return on them better. Module energy production degrades over time, so by spending a few more dollars, you will save more on equipment with a proven track record.

Pacific Islands Construction believes that the consumer needs to be better informed so that your purchase of a photovoltaic system is an informed one. Ask the right questions, research the product manufacturers, ask for documentation and seek out quality solutions for your energy needs. The solar industry has been rapidly changing, and you can find out more about companies like Kyocera, who make industry-leading, high-quality solar products, by calling 841-7756 or visiting pacificislandsconstruction.net.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

A VESSEL

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other’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to show how much your mom means to you May 13. Surprise your mother, grandmother or expecting mom with a unique gift this year. Island Stone Center has handcrafted solid marble vases to showcase any floral arrangement. Take the typical floral arrangement to the next level with the special touch of a marble vase, which can be reused for years to come. These natural marble vases come in five different colors and three sizes. Island Stone Center has floral vases available in Light Onyx, which is a translucent, flesh-tone marble with dark banded veins. For monochromat-

ISLANDSTONECENTER ADDRESS: 1111 DILLINGHAM BLVD. #E1-B CONTACT: 848-0989 • www.islandstonectr.com ic decor, the Ziryt White marble vase is predominately white with lightgray veining. Earth tone floral vases offer a more “organic” feel, and are available in Teakwood

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marble and Tiger Eye. For those who prefer an exotic look, the Multicolor Onyx has an array of colors with a bold and striking pattern. Each natural marble vase is individual-

ly unique in color and pattern, which is sure to fit in with any décor. Currently all in-stock marble vases are 15 percent off until May 13. Custom sand blasting is available to make any marble gift more personalized. Show the people you care about how much they mean to you by “writing it in stone.” Any in-stock Onyx and marble product can be sand blasted for an additional fee. All pieces can be completed in one week, as all sand blasting is done in-house. Island Stone Center is very excited to offer its sand blasting service, and the staff looks forward to working with its customers to create a one-of-a-kind piece of art. Island Stone Center caters to Hawaii’s local stone tradesmen, offering a large selection of stone fabrication tools and supplies. Maintenance supplies for natural stone also are available for cleaning and protecting all of your stone surfaces. For additional information, call 848-0989 or stop by the showroom located at Kokea Shopping Center at 1111 Dillingham Blvd. #E1-B, near Subway. The showroom hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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BC-16446 MAY 6, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 15

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Uncovering

your ideal home he story of The Island Homes Collection, Honsador Lumber’s premier program of prepackaged homes, is one that focuses more on nurturing a vision into reality than the building materials that go into each model. For decades now, hundreds of curious families who have wanted to eventually own a home have come to Honsador Lumber to get information and begin their journey toward homeownership. Many who come leave knowing it will be a long road to fruition. Honsador Lumber, with its staff of trained professionals, respectfully assists those families in finding

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financial literacy assistance so they can realize their dream of owning a home. For clients who are ready to proceed, The Island Homes Collection helps to take several steps out of the planning and designing stages. More than 30 model variations come predesigned, and when purchased in a standard format, they are generally acceptable to the building department. Ideas on financing, sensible pricing, logical delivery of materials and even bonding to qualified builders are offered. It is truly one-stop buying at its best. All of the materials that go into the homes are of the highest quality. A 20-year, $5,000 Hi-Bor warranty is available when all requirements Olaloa model: three bedrooms/two baths, are met. 1,104 square feet, single story Careful thought went

Oahu model: five bedrooms/three baths, 2,408 square feet, two stories

into the design and development of all the models offered. Honsador sales consultants have the job of scheduling all the “next moves” to assure a smooth materials supply process. Most prepackaged home kits are completed with very few disappointments along the way. Building a home is an art form, and nothing is ever 100-percent perfect, but Honsador Lumber is there to help throughout the process by ensuring the fewest negative events along the way. Honsador subscribes to the concept of designing a home that is affordable and can be built easily, thanks to efficient use of space and materials. There are two very attractive models that were recently finished and can be seen

in open houses as follows: The first one will be shown May 12 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 91-1026 Kaneoneo Place in Kapolei. The Kilohana model will be shown in a slightly modified version. The second one will be shown May 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 41-732 Kumuhau St. in Waimanalo. The Olaloa model will be shown with an added lanai in front. The public is invited to view these homes. Honsador has shown a sincere desire to help all who come and all who have a dream of owning a home. Many people are ready to buy, and even those who need more time come to open houses and can get more information online at www.honsador.com.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION THE CLEAR CHOICE FOR

WINDOW REPLACEMENTS

his year, Custom Contractors Inc. (CCI) celebrates its 26th year in the Hawaii window market. CCI has sold an impressive 220,000 windows to more than 15,000 customers during that time period. “You have to adapt to the times,” noted owner Luis Larcina. “As our customers’ needs change, we want to be there for them. A lot of our customers want to transition away from jalousie windows. They are extremely hard to clean, let in dust, dirt and noise, and do not let your AC run efficiently. Most importantly, the jalousie window accounts for over 85 percent of entry points during burglaries.” The aluminum awning window is CCI’s biggest seller. The manufacturer, Victor Sun Control, has been making this style of window for more than 53 years and converted several of its components to deal with Hawaii’s harsh salt atmosphere. “It’s

CUSTOM CONTRACTORS INC. ADDRESS: 99-840 IWAIWA ST. #2 CONTACT: 483-0100 been a great product for Hawaii right from the beginning,” said Larcina. “It addressed all of the jalousie shortcomings, they’re easy to clean, seal tight, meet building codes and feature Torque Bar activated cam lock security. As Victor Sun Control’s largest customer nationwide, we have a lot of say as to how the product is made, and the quality shows.” CCI offers endless glass options for its windows ranging from simple tint (reduce glare), obscure (privacy), laminated or tempered (for safety and security), to Low-e (for ultraviolet reduction). A close second in CCI’s inventory of replacement and new construction windows is its vinyl line, PLYGEM (formerly

CertainTeed), one of the country’s oldest and largest manufacturers of this kind of window. Among the various architectural shapes offered are single and double sliders, single and double hunts, casements and sliding doors. While all of the options may seem overwhelming and confusing to the average homeowner, this is where CCI’s experience and expertise come to the forefront. Twenty-year veteran and head estimator at CCI, Robert Abbett, better known as Rabbett, perhaps says it best: “When I go into a home, I find some of our customers know what they want, most are open to practical ideas and applications. We sit down and examine the home’s unique variables including trade wind direction, path of the sun, privacy and security issues and aesthetics,” he explained. “We then choose a window and glass type to meet that need. I’ll supply

them with a computergenerated drawing and individual pricing for their windows.” Another thing that makes CCI atypical in the home improvement world is its low-key sales approach. “We have great products, prices and experience,” says Abbett. “We won’t use gimmicks like ‘sign tonight and we’ll give you 20 percent off’ or ‘we’re going to make your home the neighborhood model if you sign tonight.’ Companies that use these practices know that if they walk out the door without a contract, they’ve lost your business. We actually encourage our customers to get other quotes; in the end, they feel better about us.” In addition to Abbett’s 20 years at CCI, lead installer Larry Fischer also has been with the company for 20 years. Office manager Cheryl Wilson has been with CCI for 15 years, and shop manager John O’Donnell for 10 years. This type of

departmental leadership allows CCI to smoothly transition a large quantity of jobs — typically 80 to 100 at any given time. That volume allows CCI to ship full containers of windows at a time, saving customers from $30 to $40 per window on average, and eliminating the damage that occurs when shipping in common containers or air freight. While CCI’s core value is home replacement win-

dows, it also has extensive commercial and high-rise experience in Hawaii. The company specializes in lanai enclosures (Kahala Towers and Kapiolani Bel Aire to cite two condominiums) and builds its own bay windows. With an estimated 20 million jalousies still out there waiting to be retired, CCI will be around for a long time. For more information, call 483-0100.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

BUILDING YOUR DREAM HOME FROM PAGE 7

deal with on the way to completion of their own home. For example, if you have found a tear-down or fixerupper on a lot in a neighborhood you like because of its convenience to a workplace or school, you will probably find that most lenders will not provide financing because of the condition of the home. However, an Owner/Builder Construction Loan

18 | HAWAII RENOVATION | MAY 6, 2012

would make it possible for you to purchase this home with the objective of rebuilding it or tearing it down and building a completely new home. This very specific type of financing is a specialty of CU Network Services. To find out if it will work for your project, make an appointment to sit down with a CU Network Services lender. If you have located a property you wish to purchase or already have one in your possession, such as an old family home that may or may not be salvageable, a lender will go to the site and work with you to evaluate your options as an owner/builder. Based on your income and credit rating, they will be

able to give you an idea of the loan amount you might be able to qualify for. If the project is feasible, the next step would be to obtain plans and permits for your renovation or new custom home. Once the project is approved, and the financing is in place, the loan specialist will be with you every step of the way until final completion. The owner/builder option may not be for everyone. But if you and your project qualify for the financing, you will be on your way to owning a home that has been designed to meet your specific needs, and for considerably less than what you would have paid for a new turnkey home on the market. To learn more about the Owner/Builder Construction Loan, or any of the other loan products available, call 529-4599. You also may visit the CU Network Services office located at 681 S. King St. next to the HCFCU lobby entrance. Home loans are processed by CU Network Services (NMLS #375459), a wholly owned subsidiary of Hawaii Central Federal Credit Union (NMLS # 412820).

HAWAIIRENOVATION GEOBUNGA ADDRESS: 4299 LAWEHANA ST. CONTACT: 422-4567 â&#x20AC;˘ www.Geobunga.com

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ust in time for Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day, Geobunga and the Kunia Orchid Society will host a free seminar that focuses

on one of the oldest flowering plants â&#x20AC;&#x201D; orchids. Learn how to properly care for this graceful flora at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 12

at Geobunga Garden Center, located at 4299 Lawehana St. in Salt Lake, across from Target. The company also will have hundreds of orchids available at farm-direct wholesale prices, perfect for a thoughtful Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day gift. Geobungaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Keola Kalama leads the workshop, delving into topics such as how to transplant, split, prune and care for orchid plants. Featured orchids include the Cattleya and Dendrobium varieties, which are great for people who are just starting out, as well as for seasoned orchid growers who love to collect different types of orchids. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Orchids have this innate beauty and grace,â&#x20AC;? said Andrew Dedrick, Geobunga executive director. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Did you know that since the 19th century, horticulturists have produced more than 100,000 hybrids and cultivars? In addition, the Cattleya orchid in

particular has come to stand for mature charm, making it a popular choice for Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day.â&#x20AC;? Geobunga also will have hundreds of orchids available for purchase, starting at prices as low as $5. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve procrastinated getting your mother a gift, come down to Geobunga this week where we will have so many styles and sizes of orchids to choose from,â&#x20AC;? Dedrick said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We also have literally thousands of pots ranging in color, finish and

design. You can easily create a unique gift your mom will treasure on any size budget.â&#x20AC;? Seminars are free, but very popular. To ensure your seat, reservations are highly recommended. Please register for this free seminar at www.geobun ga.com. Geobunga turns the ordinary into extraordinary as Hawaiiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best resource for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor experience. Providing unique garden elements from around the world, Geobunga specializes in stone pavers and benches, decorative rocks, ceramic pots, fountains and bamboo accents, as well as a variety of plants. With the best prices, selection and service in the state, each visit to Geobunga brings something new to discover.

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BACKPAGECOVERSTORY

ments before construction begins. That way, you will have a clear understanding of what the finished project will look like. After all, we are not all clairvoyant, and we need visual aids to help us make an informed decision.

Bargain offer

own & Country Builders LLC is a licensed general contracting design build firm that has been serving Oahu residents for the past 32 years. The company specializes in new and custom homes, remodels, second story additions, designer kitchens, bathrooms, Americans with Disability Act (ADA) modifications/improvements as well as multigenerational homes, and offers full construction services including planning and permitting. Once you get to know your general contractor better, you can have peace of mind because not only will you find that he or she is knowledgeable about the building trade, but also that he or she has the education to fortify your trust in the contractor. Town & Country Builders meets all your requirements when it comes to searching for someone to remodel or construct a new home for your

20 | HAWAII RENOVATION | MAY 6, 2012

TOWN&COUNTRY BUILDERS CONTACT: 737-7766 • www.townandcountrybuildersllc.com

family. You will get a better night of sleep because you will know that you are in good hands. Town & Country Builders LLC, with its current general building contractor’s license and zero complaint history with the Better Business Bureau, has been constructing and remodeling on Oahu for the past 32 years. The company is capable of bonding major projects, specializes in residential construction and is a certified remodeler. It has pleased homeowners with many referrals from satisfied and repeat customers. The owner, John Mowry, has a civil/highway engineering and drafting degree and more than 30 years of hands-on building knowledge. He started out in construction labor, then

apprentice carpentry and then worked as a construction estimator. Later, he was a field supervisor, journeyman carpenter and finally formed his own company in 1982. His expertise encompasses materials and methods of architectural construction, soils, hydraulics, structures and design and surveying. He is armed with the experience and knowledge to to

to complete a first class job for you and your family. You can be assured that your project will be completed on schedule with quality workmanship, and that the subcontractors are licensed and insured with years of experience as well. So it’s time to build a relationship with a company that will deliver on its promises. It will design an addition or remodel based on your needs, and render a free computergenerated three-dimensional elevation of the finished product for your review and com-

If you are a moderate-to-lowincome family and would like to repair or fix up your home, ask about a City and County Loan source with interest rates from 0 to 2 percent and a fixed term of 20 years. Monthly payments are as low as $50 per month. Repairs include new roof covering, painting, cracked driveways, kitchen and bathroom replacement, solar and photovoltaic systems, floor coverings, electric re-wire and plumbing pipe replacement, just to name a few.

You can call Town and Country Builders at 737-7766 for a free in-home consultation, or visit www.townandcountry buildersllc.com. Town & Country Builders is a member of the Better Business Bureau with an A-plus rating and is a certified remodeler.