Hawaii Renovation July 8, 2012 by Oahu Publications, Inc

HAWAIIRENOVATION.STARADVERTISER.COM

JULY 8, 2012

AN EDITION OF

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One bath’s moment of enlightenment ow many designers does it take to screw in a light bulb? Only one — but it will be the most fabulous light bulb you’ve ever seen. As any designer will tell you, lighting is crucial to good design. This is particularly true when lighting a

Hawaii Renovation is a weekly advertising supplement published by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. SALES MANAGER DARWIN ROGERS

Phone: 529-4740 drogers@staradvertiser.com Send your comments and story ideas to hawaiirenovation@staradvertiser.com

bathroom. It’s the one room in a home that’s often overlooked, but improper bathroom lighting can make the bravest among us refuse to look in the mirror. My clients, Tertia and Jason, know all about that. The couple and their two sons live in a house built in 1987, and while most of the home was updated, their master bathroom remained oblivious to the passage of time. With floor-to-ceiling black wall tiles, a cramped shower and no storage, the ’80s bathroom was really showing its age. And don’t get me started on the lighting. The room

had one bleak overhead fixture that made showering a nightmare, while the vanity lighting was so unflattering it’s a wonder Tertia managed to put on lipstick in the morning. They wanted a bathroom that was functional — and had a warm, contemporary vibe. So, putting the principle of bathroom-lighting design into play, I got set to create a modern, spalike retreat for Tertia and Jason. I started by gutting the entire space — walls came down, counters came out, tiles were scrapped. Then I painted the ceiling white, bathed the walls in soft

beige and installed charcoal porcelain floor tiles with a non-slip surface. From there, I laid out the fixtures and finishes. I created a gorgeous vanity by the room’s window, which was a good source of natural light. I put a soft chiffon blind on the window and flanked it with two mirrors. I then installed a counter constructed out of butterscotch polished quartz, a perfect foundation for “his and hers” cast glass sinks. These deep sinks sit on top of, and beside, new dark wood cabinetry that provides a ton of storage. Adjacent to the vanity, I

created a spectacular feature wall comprised of small wooden square tiles of different depths. Against this wall, I selected a beautiful free-standing tub and a modern toilet. On the wall facing the tub I designed a large shower out of tempered glass, more quartz, a stunning mosaictiled backsplash and small porcelain tiles that match the floor. Modern bathrooms can often feel cold and sterile, but the wood wall, dark cabinetry and warm quartz in Tertia and Jason’s bathroom work to offset the cooler fixtures and finishes.

The best part of this project was shopping for, and installing, some amazing lights. I installed recessed lights in the ceiling and worked in spotlights above the feature wall to accentuate the wood tiles. I chose waterproof, in-floor lighting to highlight the sculpted tub and lights for underneath the sinks. I also selected incandescent silver sconces for the vanity — soft lighting that is good for when she applies makeup. But the real showstopper is the fixture above the tub — a laser-cut steel globe that allows light to be cast all around the room. This bathroom is a perfect example of how good design that includes layers of light can transform a space. By using techniques such as spotlighting a feature wall and uplighting a tub, I gave Tertia and Jason a bathroom that is ideal for their morning routine — or their evening reprieve. As I always say: “If you light everything, you light nothing.”

Candice Olson is host of HGTV’s “Candice Tells All.”

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ummer is here, and for many of us, so are higher electric bills. The sun is shining, so to beat the heat, island residents are running their fans and air conditioners full blast. Instead of letting the sun drive electric bills up, why not harness its power to drive them down? All G Electric offers a variety of photovoltaic systems, better known as solar panels. By powering your home via solar panels, your electric bill can often drop down to nothing, except for the standard HECO surcharge. Plus, there are federal and state tax benefits for making the switch to solar energy. Since solar panels are mounted on a home’s roof, it only makes sense to have professional roofers involved in the process. That’s why All G Electric joined forces with Murakami’s Roofing to offer photovoltaic installation and maintenance. Installing solar panels often means poking several holes in the roof membrane, so it is important to have an experienced roofing contractor involved in the process to help avoid potential problems such as leakage. Murakami’s Roofing will work hand in hand with All G Electric to determine the most ideal panel layout for your home, without compromising the water tightness of the roof. Upon completion of the installation, they also will waterproof all areas with roof perforations. After installing solar panels, it’s a good idea to consider upgrading your electrical system to best utilize all the

new power coming in. All G Electric offers power upgrades that will increase your home’s incoming power from a standard 100 amps to 200 amps. Just as water flows more quickly and efficiently through a large pipe, electricity flows better through thicker, newer wires. A power upgrade will allow you to maximize the amount of electricity being generated by your new solar panels. Upgrading and rewiring your home’s electrical system offers safety benefits as well. If your home was built more than 40 years ago and has not had any electrical upgrades, there’s a good chance your wiring does not meet today’s safety standards. With a rewire, a ground wire will redirect the electrical current into the ground during a short circuit or fault, making your home safer. Summer is the perfect time to consider installing solar panels and a power upgrade. As it gets closer to the end of the year, homeowners scurry to have solar panels installed to take advantage of the tax benefit. Rainy fall weather also can slow the installation process. However, in the summer the weather is good and tax season is far away, so you can beat the rush and start enjoying the improved efficiency and lower utility costs of a solar-powered home.

JULY 8, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 3

BLENDING DURABILITY, STYLE IN OUTDOOR FURNITURE all-weather furniture to ooden outdoor survive for years. furniture always ISLAND STYLE FURNISHINGS Merbau wood (also looks good in the known as Kwila) is beginning. Then it usuregarded as one of the ally turns gray and contact // 234-1129 most durable and stable eventually falls apart address // 46-212 Kahuhipa St. web // www.AustralisLeisure.com.au timbers in the world, because of unsuitable and is the most impormaterials and poor tant aspect of the furnidesign. It has been Island Style Furnishings’ goal to search ture. It is well-known as the wood-offor the best outdoor wooden furniture choice for building docks, decks and available. Australia is known for its flooring. Merbau is the perfect wood punishing environment, and one com- for outdoor furniture. It is twice as pany from Brisbane has designed an hard and strong as teak, which makes it

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™ which provides a protective, durable and beautiful finish that is easy to maintain. Island Style Furnishings is the exclusive dealer for Australis Leisure brand furniture. All pieces are covered by a comprehensive five-year warranty. The company is located at 46-212 Kahuhipa St. in Kaneohe (directly across from City Mill). Its hours of operation are 11 a.m.5:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Call 234-1129 or visit the online catalog at www.AustralisLeisure.com.au.

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resistant to abrasion, pitting or roughening. Prior to manufacturing, the Merbau is kiln-dried to stabilize the timber so it doesn’t warp or crack. The furniture contains a reddish-brown tannin, which gives it its characteristic color. This tannin makes the wood naturally rot- and insect-proof. Mortise and tenon joints with cross doweling are used throughout each piece. All hardware is corrosion-resistant 304grade stainless steel and nickel-plated brass. Each piece comes coated with three applications of Sikkens Cetol One

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IS IT THE RIGHT TIME TO MAKE HOME IMPROVEMENTS? n late January 2012, the National Association of Home Builders’ Remodeling Market Index hit its highest level in five years. David Crowe, chief economist of the association, stated, “For many consumers, fixing up their house now fits their sentiments — and their finances — far better than selling or buying. I have found the consensus among remodelers is homeowners feel they won’t be moving anytime soon. Clients are opting instead to do something they themselves will enjoy or benefit from.”

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Recent studies also show that installing replacement windows like Anlin yield a 120-percent return on investment. Remember, your home is an appreciating asset, one that grows in value over time, unlike purchasing a car or computer that depreciates over time. So now is the time to invest in your home for not only financial rea-

sons, but also to improve its security, function and beauty. Windows Hawaii can provide you with a free assessment of your

home’s window, door and siding needs. The company offers top-quality brands backed by 26 years of experience, and it holds an A-plus Better

Business Bureau rating. Windows Hawaii can help you with products that will make your home more secure, upgrade its appearance, make it more comfortable to live in, reduce its maintenance and save you money. Call 671-0808 to set up a free consultation and

estimate. The company offers a variety of window and siding brands so you can find the one that fits your needs and budget. It warranties its products and installation for the lifetime of your home, a warranty that can be transferred should you ever sell your home.

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EQUIP YOUR ROOF FOR THE NEXT MAJOR STORM ow do you plan to observe the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Iniki this Sept. 11? Why not use the occasion as an opportunity to upgrade your home to better survive the next major storm?

Do you remember the video footage of large pieces of debris being blown around and roofs exploding off their houses? Driving around Kauai after Iniki revealed that one of the most popular roofs on the

island was a blue tarp! Consider what happens during a storm: As the wind’s speed picks up, it begins to exert a substantial uplift pressure on the roof’s surface. It tries to suck your roofing off the roof deck. Some roof systems such as concrete counter this force with their extreme weight, while others like asphalt composition depend on adhesives to keep them in place. That’s not always reliable. A better way to have a secure roof is to utilize Country Manor Shake (CMS) roofing, which has been installed in Hawaii by Aluminum Shake Roofing Inc. for 23 years. The CMS system is manufactured by Classic Products of Piqua, Ohio, and was developed by Alcoa in 1974. The CMS aluminum roof was engineered with a unique four-way interlock. The top and bottom locks feature an integral fastening flange, so there are no clips to come loose. The two side

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roof actually starts to hold tighter and tighter. It will easily withstand the 120 miles per hour wind speeds listed in the manufacturer’s lifetime warranty. So, what else do you want from your roof? You want a cool roof that has a striking appearance, gives you pride when you come home and will last for years to come. You want a properly installed roof that will hold up to the extremes of Hawaii’s environment and can withstand foot traffic. You also want a roof that is fire-safe to protect your home from airborne sparks. Call 847-8885 for a free estimate. Fred Rehm, president and founder of Aluminum Shake Roofing, will make a personal visit to your home, measure your roof, produce a scaled drawing and give a detailed estimate. He will explain how the roof system works and answer your questions to make your re-roof decision easier.

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• Living areas: Clear clutter. Make a commitment to cut out clutter-creating habits, such as leaving magazines out, dropping coats on the couch or leaving shoes in the middle of the floor. • Lighten your laundry load. With time savings of 20 minutes per load, even on large loads, washing machines with features like LG’s TurboWash, can be a time saver that makes a big difference in your week.

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CUSTOMER SERVICE BEYOND THE ORDINARY or many months, senior citizen Charlotte Carahasen had seen Pacific Imports International’s features in Hawaii Renovation and thought about attending one of the company’s Wood and Stone Flooring 101 seminars. She had wanted to change out her old carpets and dated ceramic tile floors for wood flooring for a long time. But like most of us, her busy schedule had her putting it off. A retired widow for many years, Charlotte works out daily, volunteers at a local hospital several days a week and even squeezes in a round or two of golf. However, this past April, Charlotte decided that she would finally

sign up for and attend one of the seminars. Liking what she heard at the presentation and wanting to take advantage of Pacific Imports’ special private sale for attendees, she made an appointment to meet with owner, Shirley Pai Hilton, at her Aiea home. Though her late husband had liked many of the touches throughout their townhouse, Charlotte knew that it was time to freshen things up and have her home be as stylish as she is. In her seminars, Shirley offers her customers help with overall design and decorating to go along with their new flooring. There is no charge for this option, and Shirley said she

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loves helping her customers transform their spaces into the home they’ve been dreaming of — literally starting from the ground up. According to Shirley, Charlotte was like a lot of people, knowing that they wanted a transformation but not quite sure how to go about things. From there, things moved along very quickly. Charlotte chose to go with the beautiful Kahala Floors Engineered Cumaru, a very

durable wood floor with beautiful teak-like coloring. This would definitely clash with the light-

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blue paint that was throughout the house. From there, Shirley offered to help with

selecting paint colors and new furniture, and also suggested accessories and where to place furniture. Hilton said that while the new floors and paint are done and some furniture has been ordered, it is always good to take things nice and easy. “We want to be sure that new furniture and accessories are selected with much thought to their functionality for the customer and also what suits their budget. We are very respectful of the individual’s tastes and budgetary constraints. “I don’t just have a new customer, I’ve gained a wonderful friend, and I love that I could help her to enjoy her home a little bit more,” said Shirley. Please call Shirley at 847-7711 if you would like to make an appointment or attend the next seminar on Saturday, July 14.

FREE HOME BUILDING SEMINARS ✔ How to select the right General Contractor ✔ How to select the right Window Covering for your home ✔ Kitchen and Bathroom Remodel Basics ✔ What’s the best Flooring Solution for your needs ✔ How do I save time and money in a Project ✔ 5 questions you need to ask before you start any project

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Showing off the state’s latest design trends he Building Industry Association of Hawaii (BIA-Hawaii) will present the 56th annual BIA Parade of Homes during the open house weekends of Oct. 6-7 and 13-14. This premier statewide showcase of new homes in Hawaii will educate consumers on the latest trends, technology and design innovations in residential construction. The Early Bird entries will be eligible for advance media exposure, but must submit their entry forms and payment by July 13. The 2012 BIA Parade of Homes theme is “2012 BIA Parade of Homes — A New Home Revolution.” Developers and contractors may enter single-family and multi-family homes, town homes, high rises, builder spec homes, sales offices, units in vacation ownership projects and conversions. This year’s parade also will include the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Green Building Standards for residential construction. The 56th annual BIA Parade of Homes awards gala,

2011 BIA Parade of Homes Grand Champion Gentry Homes Ltd. “Trades by Gentry Oluolu”

2011 Best in Show Neighbor Island Towne Development of Hawaii Inc. “Milo Court Haku Plan at Kehalani”

which announces the award-winning entrants and the 2012 Grand Champion, will be held Oct. 2 at The Royal Hawaiian Hotel. For more information and to obtain a BIA Parade of Homes entry form, contact Clarice Watanabe by calling 6297503 or emailing ckw@biahawaii.org.

Chartered in 1955, the Building Industry Association of Hawaii is a professional trade organization affiliated with the National Association of Home Builders, representing the building industry and its associates. The 500 members of BIA-Hawaii are developers,

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Helpful cleaning hints for beautiful baths s you work your way through your list of home projects, is cleaning at the bottom of the list? While a headto-toe, thorough cleaning of the entire house can be a major task for you and your family, don’t get overwhelmed just yet. Like any project, start with the expectation that it doesn’t need to be completed in a day, or even a weekend. Instead,

start with a smaller room that can accumulate dirt and clutter — like the bathroom — and work your way to other areas of the home. Here are some tips that can make cleaning your bathroom less of a hassle.

Give cleaning a “twist” Ever notice those unsightly water spots or fingerprints on your brushed nickel faucets?

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Hot showers lasting more than 12 minutes are part of most daily routines, according to Moen research. The warm moisture from that relaxing shower, however, can cause serious mildew problems. Scrubbing a bathroom is hard enough — add mildew to the mix and it’s a nightmare. One of the best techniques for tackling mildew is to use white vinegar. This simple kitchen product is completely natural and won’t harm your bathroom surfaces. It’s even family- and pet-safe. Simply pour a few cups of white vinegar into a spray bottle with equal parts water and apply directly to the mildew area. Scrub the vinegar around, and you’ve got a mildew- and moldfree bathroom in no time. Once you rid your bathroom of mildew, stop the build-up from coming back by increasing the air circulation. Turn the fan on during a shower and keep it running up to 30 minutes after. Additionally, air conditioners, dehumidifiers and an open win-

Vanities and sink countertops often become a catch-all for clutter. Everything, from towels to toiletries, curling irons to cotton balls, can take over and wreak havoc on your space and your cleaning time frame. Chances are you don’t use the multiple bottles of sample and travel size shampoos, soaps or lotions you’ve accumulated. A few bottles on hand are helpful for trips, but acquiring a drawer filled with the miniatures is only taking up valuable space in a bathroom. Luckily, your clutter can help others. Instead of throwing the bottles away, donate them to a local shelter, where shampoos and soaps — no matter the size — are constantly in demand. Find a home for the true necessities by adding bath accessories. Items, such as shelves, towel bars or towel rings can keep items off the floor and countertop, and add a stylish look.

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

with the Engage floor product: • Engage Essential planks come in a 7 1/2-inch by 47 1/2-inch plank size with various color options. • Engage is a great option for homeowners looking for a quality DIY (do it yourself) type product. Metroflor is the world’s largest LVT manufacturer and has introduced another innovative product with Engage in the largely popular category. Other products manufactured by Metroflor include Hybrid and Konecto. For more information on Metroflor, please go to the website www.metroflorlvt.com. Find the answer to your needs with Metroflor’s Engage at all Wayne’s locations: Kaimuki, Kaneohe and Sand Island. You also can visit The

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SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. JULY 8, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 11

STAR-qualified windows can save up to $126 to $501 a year on utility bills depending on your location. For example, the Pella 350 Series vinyl windows provide durable, triplepane insulating glass window options. These highly energy-efficient windows help keep your home cooler in the summer. Satisfied customer Vince Iturbe replaced a westward-facing kitchen window and immediately noticed a difference in the temperature inside his home. “The window faces the sun the better part of the day, and it was just plain miserable during the summer,” he said. “I’m so glad to be done with the heat.” The product wasn’t the only thing Iturbe took delight in. Because of the Pella Promise, he found the right product for his home and budget, had a nomess, no-guess installation day experience, and his investment is backed by the total care guarantee — Pella’s exclusive warranties on the product and installation.

How to save money, stay cool this summer s summer heats up, air conditioning bills can rapidly rise. As homeowners feel the heat, many are looking for ways to save and stay cool. Many U.S. consumers strive to conserve energy at home. Forty-seven percent of Americans say they try to conserve energy all or most of the time,

Cool tips

according to researchers at Iconoculture. One way to help lower utility bills in the summer and year-round is to replace drafty or leaky old windows with new, energy-efficient products. According to ENERGY STAR, replacing single-pane windows with ENERGY

Once energy-efficient windows are properly installed in your home, try these inexpensive, easy ways to help keep your house cool: • Provide shade for east and west windows.

• When possible, delay heat-generating activities like baking or dishwashing until the evening on hot days.

• Use ceiling fans to circulate air to help make the house more comfortable without over-using the air conditioner.

• Seal air conditioning ducts that run through basements, crawl spaces and attics.

• Install white window shades or miniblinds. Mini-blinds can reduce solar heat gain by 40 to 50 percent, according to the American Council for an EnergyEfficient Economy.

If you like energy savings, but dread cleaning blinds, consider Pella Designer Series windows and doors with optional between-the-glass blinds or shades. Since they’re between glass, they accumulate less dust and dirt than traditional room-side window treatments. Plus, they can be closed when you are away to keep the heat out and opened when you are home to let the light in. With their outstanding energy-efficiency and builtin window treatments, it’s a winning combination. For more home improvement inspiration and to find energy-efficient windows and doors in your area, visit Pella.com.

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COOKING UP A FRESH LOOK IN THE KITCHEN or most people, remodeling a kitchen includes a complete change of cabinets and countertops, maybe even appliances. If your cabinets are still in good condition but you want to improve your kitchen in some way, replacing your old countertop with one made of granite is a great choice. It is a good investment and will definitely change the atmosphere in your space. Granite has a high tolerance to hot and cold temperatures. You can safely place hot metal pans from your oven directly on the granite top without the need for a hot pad. Although, you will have to be wary of placing hot glass or ceramic dishes on it, as they may crack if the countertop is too cold. This is called thermal shock and happens because of the difference in temperature. As for cold items, you do

not need to worry about conDA WING densation that TRADING LLC may make your granite countercontact // 847-3288 top have a dark web // www.dawingtrading.com spot if it is not properly sealed. Along with Any condensation that may new form on the stone will fade brand cabinets and away in an hour. Granite countertops may countertops, be used as a cutting board there are other too. Because the hardness ways to imof granite is greater than prove your kitsteel, you do not need to chen to be worry about kitchen knives more functionscratching your granite al and last surface. Although, it is not longer. Pull-out drawers recommended to always are a great add-on for existcut on your granite coun- ing kitchen cabinets. With tertop as it will actually metal ball-bearing tracks make your knife dull over and solid-wood dovetail drawers, you will never time. Another way to add to again need to worry about your kitchen or other hard-to-reach items in the rooms is to create a stand- back. Call Da Wing Trading alone island with cabinets as the base. It will be a great LLC at 847-3288 or visit place to sit, eat, work, study www.dawingtrading.com for more information. or hang out.

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Email: dawingtrading@gmail.com • www.dawingtrading.com Open Mon-Sun 8 am - 5pm JULY 8, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 13

WHEN IS PAINTING YOUR SHINGLE ROOF A GOOD IDEA? LOOKING FOR TELL-TALE SIGNS ost shingle roofs in Hawaii fall into one of three basic categories: asphalt composition, wood shingle/ shakes or metal shingles. Let’s start with asphalt composition shingles, which are the most popular sloped roofs in Hawaii. Look around your neighborhood and most likely that is what you will see — for good reason. They are moderately priced, can be walked on without causing damage and look nice after they are installed. However, once they have aged

COOL ROOF STORE

contact // 591-1900 address // 575 Cooke St. web // www.coolroofstore.net

in Hawaii’s sunlight for 15-plus years, they start to show their age. The colored granules start to wear off and expose the asphalt shingle to the harsh UV rays from above. When you check the inside of your gutter and see

ACRYLIC & SILICONE

mounds of granules, then you know that your roof is ready for a protective coating. If left any longer, they will grow brittle and blow off in high winds, leaving your home vulnerable to interior damage from a storm. Coating a roof using 4 to 5 gallons of an elastomeric coating per 100 square feet of area will glue the shingles tight to each other so that high winds don’t easily lift them off. It also is helpful to install an aluminum “termination strip” along the perimeter. If you notice that your shingle roof is turning darker with age, that is usually a sign of mold and mildew growth, which is very common in older asphalt shingle roofs. A good mildew-resistant roof coating, formulated for Hawaii, can help to prevent that mold from growing back. As the roof gets darker with mold, it also gets hotter inside the home and on the roof, accelerating the aging process. When you decide to coat your roof with an insulating ceramic-

based coating, you can tint it to a light- or medium-pastel color to fit into the neighborhood. With the latest nanotechnology, even darker colors can be applied if you use an Infrared coating such as NXT Cool Zone®. Wood shake/shingles are traditionally coated with linseed oil to keep the wood from drying out. Even better is coating the shake with either a pigmented solid or semi-transparent stain, which will help block the sun’s UV rays from burning the wood surface. If your shake has turned a dark gray and creaks when you walk on it, your roof is probably ready for coating. Metal shingles, or virtually any metal roof, needs to be recoated when you see that the color has faded away to reveal the dullgray aluminum base below. A good ceramic or silicone-based coating will help keep the mildew at bay, which is preva-

lent with this type of shingle. Aluminum shingles have a devoted following in Hawaii, with good reason. A beautiful, protective coating can make them last the lifetime of the home with periodic maintenance. You can get sound advice for any kind of roof from the experts at The Cool Roof Store at 575 Cooke St. in Kakaako. Whether you want to do it yourself or have a professional do it for you, they can guide you to the best choice. For more information, visit www. CoolRoofStore.net or call 591-1900.

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A BUNDLE OF BUILDING SERVICES FOR YOUR HOME ave you ever wondered why licensed general contractors are necessary and what the real purpose of hiring them is anyway? Are you considering being an “owner builder” on your renovation or home building project? What are your liability issues? Here are some thoughts on the matter that may ease your head spins as you sort through the meticulous details of what it takes to get a project started and completed. First, there is the drafting and design of the project to conform to the city

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Department of Planning and Permitting requirements (e.g., plot plans drawn to scale, site plan with required setbacks, site location maps, foundation plan with footing details, cross section of the walls, connections of the members with proper

ties, electrical plan and four house elevations). Would you know where to apply for the permit and how to process the plan through Engineering, Waste Water, and Board of Water Supply to obtain their approval? General contractors usually take on the responsibility of getting the permit for you. Have you thought about where you will get the materials for the project and what the costs will be? Who has the best materials in town and the best prices? Who delivers? General contractors are knowledgeable because they provide these services on a daily bases. Would you like to coordinate and be responsible for more than 22 subcontractors and employees to get the work accomplished with quality results and in a timely manner? There are designand-drafting teams, architects, permit processors, land surveyors, excavators, masons, concrete deliverers, plumbers, electricians, drywall tapers, carpet installers, granite top installers, material suppliers, Corian or marble installers, ceramic tile installers, rough-andfinish carpenters, painters, roofers, window suppliers, exterior-finish teams, demolition teams, swimming pool subcontractors, architectural special inspection sign-offs, scheduling and local building inspectors. General contractors work dili-

gently and tirelessly to provide customers with a fantastic building experience. One such builder is Town & Country Builders. Town & Country Builders 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. Call Town & Country Builders at 7377766 for a free in-home consultation or visit the website www.townandcountry builder sllc.com. Town & Country Builders is a member of the Better Business Bureau with an A-plus rating, a certified remodeler and winner of the Elite 2012 Talk of the Town Excellence in Customer Satisfaction award.

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JULY 8, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 15

THE PEOPLE FACTOR PROVIDING QUALITY WORKMANSHIP FOR YOUR RENOVATION PROJECT enovations are challenging in a multitude of ways. Sometimes there are products that are close to ideal, but missing just a little something. And time frames can be tricky when it comes to coordinating the arrival of materials, availability of contractors or trying to stay within a budget. There are even moments of resignation when it is just impossible to choose a product or envision the outcome. That’s why it is not enough for a one-stop shop to have a multitude of products. Hawaii Home Expo doesn’t just carry exceptional products, but it also staffs extraordinary people.

16 | HAWAII RENOVATION | JULY 8, 2012

HAWAII HOME EXPO

contact // 834-2722 address // 2933 Koapaka St. web // hawaiihomeexpo.com

Shopping for renova- Design specialist tions just became a lot easBrandie Kasula ier as Hawaii Home Expo is proud to introduce Brandie Kasula to the team. Brandie comes from Illinois with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, and she has nearly 10 years of experience in the design field. Several paragraphs could be written about her wins in design competitions, the projects she has completed and her meticulous attention to detail. But the most important part is that she strives to make every renovation exceed the homeowner’s expectations through her vision and service. And these pictures are definitely worth a thousand words. Meet Brandie and let her make your renovation dreams a reality. Hawaii Home Expo is located at 2933 Koapaka St. in Honolulu.

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HELPING HOMEOWNERS LEARN ABOUT PV SYSTEMS acific Islands Construction has a goal to help those considering a photovoltaic system for their home become more knowledgeable. Having knowledge is a great equalizer between the buyer and seller, but generally the buyer is at a great disadvantage. The following information is provided so that buyers may be better informed:

1. A silicon solar cell’s performance dramatically declines when it reaches a temperature higher than 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit). How modules are installed on the roof matters when it comes to ventilation on the underside of modules.

2. Dirty modules and corroded wires or connections will affect energy production. 3.

A reduction in cell thickness and poor quality in construction have been recent problems. The lack of robustness of solder connections in these fragile cells and other stress factors have caused micro fractures and hot spots. Recent observations show what appear to be trails across the cells where the solder has gotten so hot over the fracture that a reaction has occurred, blemishing the cells and lowering energy output.

Cells within the modules are wired in series, and the modules are no better than the weakest cell. Energy production is greatly reduced when low-quality cells are used and quality control is lax.

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contact // 841-7756 web // Pacificislandsconstruction.net

5. PV manufacturers are not profitable because of market conditions. Companies are either leaving the industry or going bankrupt. Many of those still in the industry have cut back on quality to survive. Customers should be very careful when selecting a manufacturer. Even trusted names have lowered in quality. 6.

Efficiency ratings of modules have been engineered by manufacturers to cast their product in the best light. Every manufacturer would like you to believe that its product is the best, and salespeople will point to these tests as proof. The industry does not oversee what is actually coming off the assembly line in comparison to what was tested.

The system will generally be installed on your roof, and that requires careful consideration. Are the correct flashing details for your type of roofing being used? Has the racking system been tested to meet high winds or just rated? Are the structural elements of roof assembly engaged in securing the system? Are the conduits and wiring all properly secured? Customers need to check the installations performed by contractors they are considering.

• Repair & New Installation • Change Galvanize to Copper

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8. Warranties are written as sales tools and have many limitations to protect the manufacturer. Most people trust the warranties without having read them. Warranties are not guarantees. 9.

As a general rule, most systems are sold without any maintenance plans, and owners believe that the warranties will protect them from any future problems. Pacific Islands Construction provides free maintenance with every system purchase because the company knows that this is in the best interest of the equipment and installation. To protect the long-term investment, it is critical that these systems are serviced and protected, otherwise repairs not covered by the warranties will be quite expensive. If you are looking to make an informed decision, call Pacific Islands Construction at 841-7756 to talk to one of its trained consultants. They can provide you with answers to many of your questions without the sales gimmicks. The company believes that an informed consumer will make a better decision when purchasing a solar energy system. If you believe in quality, let Pacific Island Construction show you why Kyocera is the best choice for solar. Since the company also is a licensed roofer/contractor, it can ensure the best installation on your roof. Call Pacific Islands Construction or visit the website at pacificislands construction.net. JULY 8, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 17

Eclectic design trends can breathe new life into any of your rooms he newest interior design trends are invoking a playful vibe into rooms by mixing and matching different styles for an eclectic, fun look. According to ELLE Decor, home decorating is shifting toward a more theatrical and eclectic decorating style highlighting richer colors and layers of textures and patterns, as well as a fusion of time periods, styles and atmosphere. Homeowners who want to express their own unique style can blend a mix of traditional and contemporary elements, said Erinn Valencich, designer and blogger for HGTV’s Design Happens. Whether it’s neutral colors with a bold chair or a formal fireplace with art deco accessories, homeowners can create a space that is both comfortable and dynamic. “Attractive eclecticism can help make your home space a truly accurate reflection of your individuality,” said Valencich. “Combining shapes, styles and colors makes a very original statement.”

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Eclectic style can include a variety of periods and styles, and it’s connected through the use of color, texture, shape and finish. With such a bevy of decor options, an eclectic room can easily turn chaotic. That’s why Valencich recommends starting with a good foundation, the floors. “I like to design a room from the ground up,” she said. “A new floor is a great place to start for a fresh look and feel; floors not only ground the room, but they provide the design foundation. “A good strategy when designing an eclectic room is to start with a neutralcolored floor to help tie all the elements together,” said Valencich. “Gray-toned floors are the latest design trend, and they open up the possibilities for a wide range of decorating styles and color palettes.” A neutral-color floor isn’t “blah” or SEE PAGE 19

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FROM PAGE 18

unattractive, added Valencich. A floor like Quick-Step’s new Reclaime flooring in Heathered Oak serves as a pleasing canvas to create your eclectic room design, while also adding an attractive level of style and artistry to a room. This floor gives the same visuals and charm of a hardwood floor constructed from reclaimed, vintage wood, which adds depth and personality to the room. Another advantage to a neutral-color floor is that as your room decor changes through the years, your floor will transition nicely. “The great thing about spaces decorated in an eclectic style is they can easily be changed depending on mood, inspiration and budget,” she said. “That’s why it’s important to have flooring that is versatile enough to adapt to your changing style.”

Design principles An eclectic room doesn’t have to be a hodgepodge or random assortment of items. “Have a planned and deliberate design,” said Valencich. “Eclectic rooms benefit from the same principles of design seen with other styles.” • Balance. “Edit your collection to create harmony and focal points,” she said. “Practice moderation with your pieces.” • Harmony and unity. “Group objects that

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• Scale and proportion. “A mix of small, medium and large pieces helps balance out a room and keeps it from looking cluttered,” she said. Valencich says to keep the design principles in mind while mixing unexpected pieces to create a gorgeous effect. • Art. Create a tidy grid of art to balance out weathered pieces and graphic patterns. • Bring nature inside. Use nature to help create your eclectic look. Airy flower arrangements atop a dark, antique table give a balance of dark and light colors. • Play with textures in your room. From an old frame with the paint peeling to nubby rugs to silky pillows, textures keep the room interesting and inviting. • Personality. Let your personality shine through with what you love. Do you have a collection of seashells or other trinkets? Use those pieces in an everyday nook. “As you create your own eclectic look, remember to be adventurous and a little daring,” said Valencich. “The most unexpected pairings can make the most refreshing looks.”

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CVCONSTRUCTION

GOING THE

EXTRA M I L E homes, we’re dealing with their livelihood, we’re dealing with what they live in. After we leave, they still have to deal with it day after day after day,” he explained. “We’re family-style, family-oriented, and we take care of our clients just like we’d like to be taken care of. Everybody we have in our company is family.” That extends to CV Construction’s employees, all of whom are either relatives or friends from Sam’s native village of Fujian, China. “We take care of them like they’re our family too because they make CV Construction,” Victor stated. “We’re just the name. They provide the services. We rely on their expertise to do the job very well.” This confidence in its employees allows CV Construction to keep a majority of its work in-house. The company rarely, if ever, will rely on a subcontractor, which gives CV Construction control over the cost and timeline of the project, ultimately saving clients undue stress and money. “We try to do the best job we can for the project price, and we’re always very fair,” Victor stated. “We always offer (clients) choices, and we never go into anything blind or try to trick somebody. That’s not how we work. We agree on the contract, we follow the contract and we do the job that we were contracted to do.” Victor adds that he is on call seven days

CV CONSTRUCTION • 531-3888 • 428-5191 • www.cvconstructionhawaii.com

BY SARAH PACHECO

n the past year, CV Construction LLC has built a strong reputation among its clients as a trustworthy company that provides honest, reliable service for a great value. “We always try to give that extra and make sure the client is happy, and by happy, I mean to the extent that we’ve done our job right,” said project manager Victor Yeung, the “V” in CV Construction. “We would not do anything less for our clients because it’s not worth it to go into the business if you’re not going to do what you’re supposed to be doing.” Victor, whose background is in sales, met future business partner Chuan “Sam” He (the “C” in the company’s name) six years ago, shortly after returning home to Hawaii after some time spent living in California. Victor began by working part-time with Sam’s former construction business, eventually joining the company full-time in 2009. Sam, who has an extensive 15-year background in commercial and residential construction on Oahu, Maui and the Big Island, decided in early 2011 that he 20 | HAWAII RENOVATION | JULY 8, 2012

wanted a new partner with whom to launch a new company that would better meet the requests and needs of his clients. He chose Victor as that person and within a few months, CV Construction was created. The company hits a major milestone this week as it celebrates one year of business, which is an accomplishment in Hawaii’s competitive construction industry. “We’re very blessed to be busy,” Victor said. Since opening in March 2011, CV Construction has worked on more than 60 projects here on Oahu, including doctors’ offices, dental offices, financial institutions and restaurants. However, the majority of business revolves around residential projects, from kitchen and bathroom remodeling to home additions and other large-scale residential renovations. But CV Construction doesn’t just build houses; according to Victor, the company develops one-on-one relationships with clients that often turn into lasting friendships. “We don’t just do the project and leave. We get invested with our clients and (develop) a vested interest in their future, because we don’t just consider it a project — we’re dealing with people’s

a week should a client have questions or need to contact him regarding changes to the project. “We keep the lines of communication open,” he said. “Open lines of communication mean no surprises.” However, sometimes mistakes do happen, but Victor believes it is the way in which a contractor responds to the situation that makes all the difference. “No contractor is perfect; it’s just how the communication is, how it is handled and how the client is taken care of,” he said. “I cannot promise every project will be perfect, but I can promise to all of my clients we will do the best we can and will always keep them informed about everything, whether through text or email or phone.” Customers can call the office at 5313888 to schedule a free estimate or stop by the showroom located at 1018 Smith St., near the corner of Smith and King streets. Hours of operation are 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and by appointment only Sunday. CV Construction also regularly posts before and after pictures of past projects on its Facebook page (search under CV Construction LLC), along with tips and links for DIY home renovation projects. Other ways to keep in touch are to follow the company on Twitter @cv8888 or visit its website, www.cvconstructionhawaii.com, to read client testimonials, see more photos or find out additional information. “We want our clients to be happy, and we want them to talk about us,” Victor said. “We are not in it for a one-shot kind of deal. We’re here to stay.”