Hawaii Renovation Nov 13 2011 by Oahu Publications, Inc

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The Sound of Silence Available through Servco Home and Appliance Distribution’s authorized dealers, Bosch dishwashers are the ideal appliance for any home: noiseless and oh, so efficient. See page 3

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kitchen facelift that

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nterior designers and plastic surgeons have one thing in common: They both do a lot of facelifts. Recently, a house belonging to clients Ilya and Pina went under my “knife.” They have a large family and they all live in an old farmhouse where they enjoy cooking and holding family celebrations. But the kitchen was ill-suited to the tasks at hand. The room that should have been the soul of the household was absolutely soulless. The kitchen was very large with a nice wood floor, but its redeeming qualities ended there. From the dim lighting to the dated appliances, this kitchen needed help. To help keep costs down, I decided to give the space a facelift instead of a total gut. I knew this would be no simple nip-and-tuck, but, rather, a full-fledged operation. A kitchen facelift typically involves refreshing a lot of the old and injecting some of the new. In this instance, I wanted to preserve some of the farmhouse flavor, but update it with an urban, industrial vibe. Kitchen facelifts are all

about making the most of what you have, so I decided to keep the flooring and most of the cabinetry. But all of the wainscoting and backsplash had to come off, as well as the countertops and some of the cabinetry. When it comes to kitchen facelifts, paint can be your BFF. I painted the kitchen a bright paper-white, except for one accent wall that I painted butter-yellow. I mixed in some new cabinetry with the old and painted the upper cabinets white and the lower cabinets black, and to all of SEE PAGE 17

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There’s a lot to say about something so quiet S

ervco Home and Appliance Distribution is proud to be the wholesale distributor for Bosch home appliances. Did you know Bosch’s 800 series dishwashers have been rated No. 1 by a leading consumer publication? Rated in the categories of washing, energy use, noise and ease of use and cycle time, Bosch not only captured the top spot, but outshone all other dishwasher brands. Four Bosch dishwashers received a place in the list of the top 11 dishwashers by a leading consumer publication. And no dishwasher is quieter at every price point Bosch sells. Bosch has been ranked No. 1 by leading consumer publications 10 times over and is a proud winner of the 2011 ENERGY STAR® Sustained Excellence Award. All Bosch dishwashers are backed by

the Seal and Good Housekeeping’s additional two-year limited warranty. Bosch also looks at noise reduction from all angles. As the quietest line of dishwashers in the U.S., Bosch has a silence rating as low as 39 dBA (decibels), equivalent to that of a library. What’s a decibel you ask? To give you an idea, noise is measured in decibels and a whisper is about 30 dBA and a normal conversation is about 60 dBA. Bosch dishwashers are so quiet, you won’t know they’re on. That is why there’s InfoLight, a small red light projected onto the floor to indicate that the dishwasher is still running. No dishwasher is quieter at every price point Bosch sells. Bosch’s exclusive solid molded base contains 70 percent of washer noise — unlike

the competition. Bosch is the only U.S. manufacturer to offer a high-tech leak-protection system called AquaStop — a sensor system that detects leaks and shuts down operation and automatically pumps out water so it cannot make contact with the floor. Bosch’s Ascenta models have an exclusive 24/7 overflow protection that senses leaks even when the dishwasher is turned off. In case the water level gets too high, the dishwasher pumps out the water in the tub and closes the water outlet valve. Bosch also makes water work better by using less of it — as little as two gallons per cycle without sacrificing cleaning performance, and it has the most water-efficient dishwasher in each class. With innovations like EcoSense®, it

adjusts water and heat usage automatically to reduce energy usage by up to 20 percent while minimizing water usage. Did you know half load cuts water and energy use to less than a single dish drawer? And alternating washing between upper and lower racks lets Bosch dishwashers use half as much water as some competitors. Visit one of our authorized dealers or visit Servco Home and Appliance Showroom, one of Hawaii’s finest appliance showrooms, and see an array of Bosch’s innovative, quietest, most-efficient dishwasher lineup in the U.S. The showroom, located at 2841 Pukoloa St. in Mapunapuna, is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.–6 p.m., and Saturdays 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Or, visit us at servcoappliance.com. NOV. 13, 2011 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 3

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Ensuring the

Best Roof Over Your Head BY CAROLINE WRIGHT

uring the next rainstorm in your neighborhood, grab an umbrella and step outside for a quick roof inspection. Do bits of shingle fly off your roof during big gusts of wind? Have roofing granules from your shingles collected on the ground under your gutters? When you’re safely indoors, can you see beads of moisture or damp patches on your ceiling beams? If you can answer “yes” to any of these questions, chances are that your home might need a repair, partial replacement, or even a

MURAKAMI’S ROOFING SERVICE CONTACT: 348-8270 • murakamiroofing.net brand new roof, according to Clinton Murakami, owner of Murakami’s Roofing Service on Oahu. A roof’s age, he adds, is a pretty good indicator of its current condition. “Normally, if your roof is less than halfway through its lifecycle — if you have a 30-year roof and it’s only Year 10 or 15 — you can usually get away with a repair or just a partial reroof, if nothing really bad

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has gone wrong.” However, a roof near the end of its lifecycle should be replaced if at all possible. “If you’re more than halfway through the lifecycle and you opt for repair, you’ll likely have to do another repair after the next big storm,” Murakami warns. “The cost of the repairs starts to outweigh the cost of a reroof.” The two most-common types of roofing in Hawaii are asphalt shingles (for higher-sloped roofs) and rolled roofing for lowpitched roofs. For a structure of about 2,000 square feet, a homeowner should budget anywhere from $5,000 to $18,000 for

asphalt shingles or rolled roofing. “There’s a wide variation, depending on whether you’re going to reroof over the existing roof, or if you have to scrape off one, two, or three layers of existing shingles.” The roof’s accessibility can also be a cost factor, Murakami adds. One of the most important things to consider is the manufacturer’s warranty of roofing materials versus expected length of residence. “Look at your own lifecycle,” suggests Murakami. “Is this the house you’re planning to grow old in? Then you might want to spend a bit

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more. But if you’re going to be selling it in five or 10 years, don’t buy a high-end roof.” One of Murakami’s recent clients, a gentleman in his 80s, had decided to put an expensive 50-year roof on his home. “I suggested that a 30year roof would be cheaper and perfectly adequate, and he could find better ways to spend and enjoy his savings. He really appreciated that.” As might be expected, light-colored roofs are best for most Hawaii homes. Tests done by the Lawrence

Berkeley National Laboratory revealed that the temperature of a white roof on a cool sunny day can reach about 118 degrees Fahrenheit, while the temperature of a dark roof can surpass 140 degrees. Most manufacturers make ENERGY STAR® shingles in reflective colors that absorb less heat. Even in sunny Hawaii, summer is the best time for complex projects. “You don’t want to do certain types of roofing during the winter months,” Murakami concludes. “The three magic words of roofing are June, July and August!”

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Homes of the Future:

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re you planning to move to a new home in the next few years? Thinking about renovating your current home so it’s more appealing to potential buyers when you do decide to move on? Or maybe you just want to

What’s Hot and What’s Not

change your space to follow the latest trends? Whatever your plans for your existing or future home, research from the National Association of Home Builders and Better Homes and Gardens magazine shows what features and floor plans will be

popular over the next few years. According to an NAHB survey of home builders on their expectations for homes in 2015, smaller homes with lower prices and more green features will be the predominant force in the marketplace.

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As the average size of new single-family homes continues to decline to 2,377 square feet from a peak of 2,521 in 2007, floor plans are focusing on frequently used rooms. More than half of the builders surveyed said the size of the family room will increase, while the formal living room, entry foyer and dining room are expected to decrease or disappear. Other features that builders predict are highly likely to be found in the average new home of 2015 include a walk-in closet in the master bedroom, a laundry room, ceiling fans, a master bedroom on the first floor in homes with two stories and a

two-car garage. Nearly 70 percent of the respondents said that homes will be greener, and about one-third expect them to have more features related to technology. The most common green features in 2015’s new homes will be low-E windows; engineered wood beams, joists or trusses; water-efficient features such as dual-flush toilets or low-flow faucets; and an Energy Star rating for the whole house. Eighty-nine percent of consumers want high-efficiency heating and cooling in their next home, 85 percent want high-efficiency appliances, and 78 percent want upgraded features and fixtures such as gran-

ite countertops, wood flooring, faucets and lighting fixtures. Efficient use of space also ranks high in consumers’ desires. The topranked living spaces include a separate laundry room; additional storage space; walk-in closets or built-ins; a home office space, workspace or family computing center; and everyday eating space in or close to the kitchen. For more information on new home builders, remodelers and housing trends in Hawaii, contact info@biahawaii.org. Karen Nakamura is executive vice president / CEO of the Building Industry Association of Hawaii.

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How to ‘green up’ your home, office or dorm with houseplants

ooking for a fresh new look for your home or office or want to add some color and cool for your college digs? Houseplants are always in style. For an easy transformation of any space, houseplants add high impact and eco flair that rival expensive makeovers. Whether you choose orchids or Bonsai, houseplants fit any lifestyle, mood or taste. From finding the perfect plant to decorating ideas at your fingertips, check out the new digital magazine GrowingStyle. This free download and app is your go-to resource for the hottest plants, green living tips, expert advice and lots of eco eye candy. Whether you’re a long time plant collector or novice, these tips from top garden experts show just how easily houseplants will “green up” your life.

The air in there Did you know that houseplants do double duty? They not only add beauty to indoor spaces but also clean our indoor air and remove nasty toxins from carpets, paint, household cleaners, printers and even furniture. “Besides what they give back in aesthetics, one of the greatest things houseplants do is provide muchneeded humidity in the winter months and freshen the air year round,” says Justin Hancock, editor of Better Homes and Gardens online (BHG.com). Plant hunter and expert Mike Rimland says that houseplants help clean indoor toxins commonly found in homes, apartments and offices. “What houseplants you choose and where they’re placed are important considerations to maximize air filtering benefits.” Rimland suggests houseplants like peace lilies for bathrooms and Sanseveria

and Golden Pothos for your entryway and living spaces. “They’re easy to grow and can help remove volatile organic compounds found in cleaners, carpets and furniture like benzene, formaldehyde, acetone and xylene.”

Set the mood From added drama to a touch of whimsy, houseplants instantly liven up any room or office with natural beauty and add a funky touch of greenery to boxy dorm rooms. For happy plants, Rimland recommends you assess your rooms for optimal lighting conditions and care requirements, follow the plant care guidelines on the tags and choose plants that fit your lifestyle. Want to create a quick and easy upscale look or a serene retreat? Nothing beats orchids, arranged in simple or elaborate containers, for high impact

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drama and Zen-like simplicity. “As a great ‘everyman’ plant, orchids can’t be beat,” says Hancock. “Mini orchids are easy to grow and perfect for a centerpiece or a thing of beauty and tranquility alone on a windowsill.”

Green-up your space with living walls If you have limited space or want a visually dramatic, high impact design for a room, living walls are the ticket. Not only can they improve air quality, but they are quite a conversation piece, adding an instant “wow factor” to any room. Rimland says that living green walls are a great way to maximize the benefits of houseplants to purify and beautify spaces. “Whether you buy one of the new kits available or have a professional install your living wall, your rooms will spring to life with living art you create.”

Go green and groovy Looking for fun and easy houseplants that are practically a no-brainer? Waterretaining, light-loving, easycare succulents and cacti are virtually indestructible and come in many colors, shapes and varieties. So mix them up in containers for a visual feast that draws the eye and soothes the soul.

“Succulents are greatlooking, low maintenance plants that make it easy for everyone to bring the outdoors inside,” adds Hancock. For more ways to spruce up your home with the hottest houseplants and tips on decorating with a splash of sophisticated and refreshing greenery, visit www.grow ingstylemag.com.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

Makiki couple builds quieter, environmentally green home This is the first article of a three-part series.

or years, the homeowners of an 85 year-old Makiki home had been actively planning to rebuild and visited many builders’ open house projects. At the BIA Home Building and Remodeling Show in 2009, the couple was intrigued with a “quiet room” which Graham Builders featured in their booth, and they signed up to attend the company’s free monthly “Building Your Home for Life” seminar. This was especially attractive to the homeowners since their home was situated downwind less than 50 feet from the H-1 freeway. “We knew Graham Builders was a design+build company and wanted to learn the ideal way to get started on building a brand new

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BUILDERS INC. ADDRESS: 1144 YOUNG ST. CONTACT: 593-2808 • www.grahambuilders.com home,” said the homeowners. “We found Graham Builders’ seminar to be a very complete and informative review of the steps necessary to start our intricate project. The presentation contained easy-to-understand, valuable information and it was done without a hard sell. We’ve attended other builders’ seminars where the approach was focused on their building capabilities and introducing their vendors, which seemed too ‘salesy’ to us.” “Given the home’s close proximity to the freeway, noise abatement was a

8 | HAWAII RENOVATION | NOV. 13, 2011

primary concern” said Evan Fujimoto, Graham Builders president. “Working closely with the homeowners, we designed an attractive CMU (hollow tile) wall facing the freeway to reduce sound penetration. The windows on that wall are smaller and QuietRock, a special noise-reducing drywall, is also being used. A single 5/8’ sheet is equivalent to eight sheets of normal gypsum board.” Another major consideration was making the new home as energy-efficient as possible. Due to the high dust and soot environment next to the freeway, windows will be kept closed most of the time and air conditioning will be used to cool the house. A light grey “cool roof” will deflect the sun’s rays and minimize heat transfer through the roof into the house, and heatreflective Cool-Wall exte-

rior paints will dramatically reduce wall temperatures as well. Passive day-lighting also plays an integral part of the home’s planning with obscure glass clerestory windows that flood the great room with natural light, reducing the need for lights during the day. Other green features include insulation in the walls and ceilings, gas tankless water heaters, and a photovoltaic system to offset the electrical demand from the air conditioning. “After attending the BIA Home Building and Remodeling Show, we became aware of ‘green’ home elements,” said the couple. “Building design and materials have become more environmentally sensitive so we found it natural to incorporate green elements in our home as well.” This story is Part 1 of 3 that will follow the Makiki homeowners in their design+build journey, to share their experience in building a new home with Graham Builders. In November we’ll check in with the homeowners and report on the construction process. The final, completed project will be unveiled in December. You won’t want to miss it. For more than 20 years, Graham Builders, Hawaii’s premier design+build firm, has worked with homeowners to design and build or renovate their dream homes and is ready to help you with your home construction project. Homeowners interested in learning more can attend Graham Builders’ upcoming “Building Your Home for Life” seminar on Wednesday, Oct. 19 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Honolulu Country Club. Seminars are free, but reservations are required. For a full schedule of 2011 monthly seminars or to register, visit www.grahambuilders.com or call 593-2808.

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Easy ways to create a dream bedroom for your child J

ust about every child wishes for a dream bedroom, but it takes inspiration to transform four white walls into a fairytale princess room or tree house hideaway. Fortunately, you don’t have to be an interior designer or skilled craftsman to become a hero. A little family compromising, combined with some simple painting techniques, can go a long way in creating a fun, personalized design that kids love — and parents can live with over time.

Choose colors that are kid-friendly Paint is one of the easiest and most dramatic ways to transform a room. Start by choosing a color scheme that appeals to your child’s interests. There’s a wide array of colors and creative design ideas that appeal to kids.

One option is the Kids’ Colors collections at Sherwin-Williams stores, which offer four colorcoordinated palettes, paired with easy instruction guides, for creating delightful, age-appropriate designs. In all, the 120 professionally selected colors fall into four age groups, from infants to teenagers, with color schemes that can be adapted as the child grows. The techniques are as endless as your imagination. Try adding whimsical polka dots to a girl’s room, create a checkerboard effect for an avid chess player, or paint a faux racecar track that zooms around the bedroom wall, across the floor and back up the wall again, for a young sports enthusiast. More design inspiration is SEE PAGE 18

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Four ways to achieve a luxurious look with an affordable price tag

t’s not uncommon for homeowners to get the itch to move when they’ve been in their house awhile. While just picking up and moving isn’t an option for most of us, there’s another approach that people are taking: Refreshing their house to create a high-impact, highstyle look, but doing it in a way that’s cost-effective. You don’t need to be an interior design expert to pull this off, either. A little creativity, adaptive reuse and the right focal point can give your home a luxurious look at a reasonable price, according to top experts who specialize in fabulous on a budget. “Affordable luxury means achieving comfort and a high level of style for a price point that is not going to break the bank,”

affordable-luxury designer ate a timeless feel. Sarah Barnard says. Here are a few ways to 2. Keep textures warm achieve a high-end look at a and beautiful low-end cost for your next “Somehow, we are missindoor and outdoor project. ing the warmth in new homes,” Blanche says. “You 1. Use materials that are can change that feeling by using lines that are classic timeless and classic “Mix the old with the and clean.” The simple yet elegant new,” says Blanche Garcia, interior designer and con- look of wood, such as testant on HGTV’s “Design Western Red Cedar, instantStar.” “It’s about finding a ly adds a glow and beauty to balance between interject- any room. This versatile ing something really beauti- material holds a finish for an ful with a flea market find.” extended period of time and She recommends start- weathers beautifully natuing with something simple rally, making it a lasting — like a great desk — as an choice inside and out for sidanchor piece and fill in ing, wall boards, trim, posts around it. Use large pieces or beams. you already have that can endure quality and aesthet3. Create visual accents ics but will not look dated Simple details can add a or need to be replaced. Add luxurious feel to your trims around living room home, and accents, such as windows and doors to cre- antique lamps, artwork and

Luxurious touches, like cedar planks that warm up this lounging nook, can be done on a budget. fresh flowers, can spark visual interest. Garcia recommends adding pops of yellow for a more vibrant look, as an easy way to add spice at a low price. To create a more dramatic effect, consider adding blinds or shutters — inside or out — in warm natural red cedar for additional function.

4. Think green It’s easy to get an afford-

able luxury look using elements that also are ecofriendly, including locally sourced products or natural materials. Barnard recommends looking at what’s available and what can be reused for a fraction of the price. Consider using salvaged material by reinventing old furniture, cupboards or light fixtures. Make use of sustainably harvested materials like

red cedar that require minimal processing while reducing environmental impacts. Add luxury outdoors, by placing a reclaimed coffee table on your deck to extend the warm, luxurious look outside while creating a relaxing space. Planters and window boxes made with natural materials add warmth and texture as well.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

Prepare your Home with Siding H

ome siding in Hawaii has always been an area of high maintenance and high frustration. Sun, rain, humidity and salt are constantly combining their strengths to break down painted wood, vinyl and aluminum siding. Fortunately, modern technology has developed a new line of products that look great and are guaranteed to stay that way. Windows Hawaii is proud to distribute and install premium siding products like Craneboard. Craneboard’s revolutionary, lifetime-warranted products can update the look of your home and eliminate the need to paint your home in the future. Craneboard is a high-tech acrylic product that looks and feels like wood. Its attractive products come in a variety of styles and colors and, best of all, never need to be painted. However, don’t confuse Craneboard with the vinyl siding that you may have seen in the past 10 or 20 years. Craneboard is an architecturally designed

12 | HAWAII RENOVATION | NOV. 13, 2011

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Ohana has got the kitchen, bath covered O

hana Building Supply is the preferred choice of homeowners and contractors alike. The company has a variety of high-quality kitchen and bathroom materials at very reasonable prices. From readymade to custom cabinetry, Ohana Building Supply has a wide selection that includes a full line of granite countertops, stainless steel sinks, hardwood and laminate flooring — all to fit any architectural style. The ready-made and custom cabinets are constructed of full plywood boxes, solid wood face frames and doors. Locally stocked are maple, light or

dark cherry espresso oak and the new white oak, constructed of plywood boxes and engineered MDF-flat panel style doors and frames. Selections are growing, with new styles soon to come. Ohana Building Supply stocks a vast selection of granite countertops such as African Fantasy, Blues in the Night, Jurpana Tier Ivory, Yellow Dragon and River White, to name a few. Finished with an elegant bull nose edge, these stylish countertops add character to any kitchen and bath. While supplies last, Ohana is offering free granite (three styles to choose from) with the

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purchase of any kitchen cabinet set. Other granites are 15 percent off with the purchase of a kitchen cabinet set. Ohana also stocks an assortment of laminate flooring, under mount and top mount stainless steel sinks and ceramic vanity bowls. All of these products are in stock and available for prompt delivery or pick-up. The friendly staff ensures excellent customer service and can assist with any questions you may have. Visit the company showroom Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or on Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

Demand for healthier building options drives the rediscovery of ceramic tile

f you’ve ever had new carpeting installed in your house and found yourself suffering from a nagging cough for days afterward, you’ve experienced the effect some home improvement materials can have on your health. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can be a significant health concern, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Concentrations of VOCs can be up to 10 times higher indoors than out, and building materials are among the sources of these noxious chemicals, the EPA says. While VOCs and other home toxins can cause respiratory irritation in healthy people, they can be particularly troublesome to anyone who suffers from asthma or allergies. Many homeowners, striving to minimize the impact of their home improvement or new building projects on the environment and their health, are opting to use

less toxic building materials. One time-tested product at the heart of the healthy building trend is ceramic tile. In fact, the Healthy Building Network recommends ceramic tile as an alternative to widely used vinyl, one of the biggest generators of VOCs in home environments. “Healthy design finds a natural partner in ceramic tile,” says Patti Fasan, Tile of Spain ceramic tile consultant. “It’s a hygienic, multi-use product that is eco-friendly, fire-resistant, slip-resistant and one of the strongest finish materials available.” The experts at Tile of Spain point to the healthful benefits of ceramic tile:

other micro-organisms like mold or mildew. You can clean it with hot water; no chemicals or detergents are needed.

• VOC-free. Ceramic tile does not release any VOCs, the most prevalent type of indoor irritant. •Allergy-friendly. Carpet can harbor dust, pet dander and other allergens. Ceramic tile does not, making it a more healthful alternative for people who suffer from allergies.

• Less places for dirt to hide. New, larger format

tiles like Keraben’s Transit Collection that are 33 inches by 97 inches, cover more surface area and require less mortar or • Cleaner surfaces. grout, meaning there are Whether you use it on the fewer places for dirt and bathroom floor or the wall microbes to hide. You can of a master bedroom, also find grout with ceramic tile is cleaner antimicrobial properties than other traditional sur- to help keep this area faces. Because it’s an inert clean as well. material, ceramic tile won’t harbor bacteria or • Eco-friendly. If your

14 | HAWAII RENOVATION | NOV. 13, 2011

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Lumens, CFLs and LEDs: Y

ou’ve probably been hearing the talk of federal light bulb regulations for years, but in January 2012, the talk will become reality, and these regulations will begin to take effect. While some other states began the transition in January 2011, the federally mandated phase-out of less efficient incandescent light bulbs begins with the 100watt light bulb on Jan. 1, 2012, so now is the time for the rest of the country to make the switch to more efficient bulbs. Before you begin considering your options, here’s a quick review of how the new regulations will work:

• Incandescent, or traditional, 100-watt light bulbs for general purpose, household shape lamps will no longer be available in stores beginning January 2012. Retailers will be able to sell-through any existing inventory, but the traditional 100-watt incandescent bulbs will not be replaced on the shelf.

• Incandescent 75-watt light same amount of light — measured in lumens — while bulbs will be unavailable in using less electrici2013. ty. For example, • Incandescent 40-watt the following and 60-watt light bulbs light bulbs all will be phased out in 2014. produce roughly the same amount As these rules phase in of light (450 gradually, it’s a great time to educate yourself on the different types of energy-efficient light bulbs available. The following tips are offered as a way of bringing your lighting into the future.

Learning lumens

about

As we transition away from incandescent bulbs, the lingo used to describe the brightness of the light bulbs is changing. We’ve become accustomed to identifying the brightness of a light bulb by the amount of power — watts — that it uses. However, more efficient light bulbs emit the

A light bulb guide for new regulations

lumens): 40-watt incandescent, 29-watt halogen, 11-watt compact fluorescent (CFL) and 9watt LED. It’s still important to pay attention to wattage to make sure you don’t exceed the recommended level for your lamp, but it’s increasingly unlikely that you’ll exceed that level as you purchase more efficient bulbs.

Types of bulbs available As you move on from incandescent bulbs, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the different types of more energy-efficient bulbs available. These bulbs will consume less energy and last longer, saving you money on monthly utility bills.

quickly recoup the money you spend on them. You can save up to $70 per year by placing CFLs in your five most commonly used lamps, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. You’ve likely seen them in spiral or tube-like shapes, but CFLs also come in the A-line form common in most incandescent bulbs.

Halogen: These bulbs use the same technology as incandescent bulbs but last up to three times longer and are about 50 percent more efficient. Halogens are known for producing the highest quality light but aren’t as efficient as CFLs. When changing halogens, you’ll want to make sure you use a rag because oil from your skin can reduce the bulb’s longevity.

LED: LED bulbs take the effiCompact fluorescent: CFL ciency and durability of CFLs

bulbs are more expensive than even further, as this bulb is incandescent bulbs, but use up rated to last more than 22 years to 75 percent less energy and and uses slightly less energy last up to 10 times as long, than a CFL bulb that also promaking it easy for you to duces 450 lumens.

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The benefits of concrete sustainability

ou have seen it and lived with it nearly every day of your life. It’s all around us. It’s in our homes. It’s in the buildings that we work in, the beautiful sculptural facades in our cities, the bridges and roads we drive on, and the sidewalks we walk on. The foundation of modern lifestyles — concrete – — accomplishes so much for us with natural materials found everywhere. Rocks, pebbles, fine sand, and processed limestone are transformed into concrete to enable the structures that beautify and support our lives. Chances are whether you know it or not, you are standing or sitting on a concrete surface right now. Very likely, concrete is under your feet, hidden beneath that carpet, tile or wood flooring of the room in which you’re reading this article. The enduring structural abilities of concrete have been known and used by both ancient and modern constructors for thousands of years. In the past, concrete has been used only as a base material over which other flooring materials are placed. Now,

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Now you’re cooking FROM PAGE 2

them I added gorgeous clear Lucite rail-pulls. Now it was time to bring in the new a — appliances fridge/freezer combo, dishwasher, stove and a range hood — all in stainless steel that instantly modernized the look. I did the counters in soft gray laminate and married them to a Carrara marble hexagon backsplash tile. I also installed a large single-bowl, stainlesssteel sink that offers a twist on the traditional farmhouse sink. In the middle of it all I installed a long, custom peninsula in reclaimed pine. I cladded the front in which barnboard, spoke to the character of this farmhouse. The peninsula houses storage additional and a dishwasher, and I provided seating for three with stools charcoal upholstered in yellow-and-gray floral fabric, inspired by vintage tea towels. In addition to the beautiful esthetics, a kitchen has to be functional, and part

of this space needed to work as a small home office. Against the yellow accent wall, I installed a work surface in the same gray laminate as countertops, the added another stool as well as some shelving and a closed storage cabinet, and voila! — instant office. But the real wow factor in this room has to be the authentic tin ceiling I installed, comprised of square tiles. I then added recessed lighting and hung the coolest light fixtures — three pendant lights that are actually old Mason jars, tinted in a subtle blue. By using lots of paint and fabric, in addition to highimpact finishes like reclaimed wood, tin repurposed and lights, I was able to give Ilya and Pina’s tired old space the facelift ultimate kitchen. And the best part? No scars! Interior decorator Candice Olson is host of HGTV’s “Candice Tells All.”

Stylish, durable flooring for all FROM PAGE 16

well, bringing out the beauty that is concealed right under your feet. At Lokahi Concrete Polishing, we understand that in many ways concrete can be a lot like people. It can have imperfections and still be something beautiful at the same time. Every concrete floor will have imperfections but still have inherent beauty and, like people, every concrete floor is different. A Diamond polished concrete floor has character. It can reflect our unique personality with quality and beauty. We already have concrete under our carpet, tile or wood, or in the case of new construction, we plan to pour it. Why not have it be our finish flooring material instead of covering it up its beautiful character? Why hide it beneath the common materials when you can proudly display your concrete and enjoy it? Traditional flooring materials such as carpet, linoleum or wood are usually placed over a concrete base. Several times over the lifetime of a structure, these materials wear out and must be replaced, and the expense can be sig-

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nificant over the lifetime of a building. Both removal and replacement have their own set environmental impacts as well. The flooring material removed has to be sent to the landfill and the replacement material must be manufactured and shipped from its origin to the point of installation. And as we all know, we have precious little landfill space left in the islands, and every step in manufacturing and transportation of flooring materials adds to the greenhouse gasses in our atmosphere. A diamond polished concrete floor will last the lifetime of a building simply by repolishing it, eliminating the expense and environmental impact of manufacturing and shipping materials from far away. Lokahi diamond polished concrete is stain resistant, easy to maintain, can be colored and designed to match your taste, and over its lifetime, is one of the most affordable, durable and sustainable flooring options available today. Lokahi’s diamond polished concrete is good for your sense of style, good for your budget, and is good for our planet as well as our islands.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

Really cool ideas skirt to hide a couple of slide-out storage containers for organizing anything from small toys to multiple pairs of tennis shoes. Place woven baskets around the room to create attractive storage in plain sight. These organizational elements can work well in rooms for kids of any age.

Here’s to versatile, eco-friendly tile

Coordinate colors with patterns

Tile of Spain-branded manufacturer Azulev shows that whether you use it in bathrooms, living rooms or the wall of a master bedroom, ceramic tile is cleaner than other traditional surfaces and useful in all areas of the home. FROM PAGE 14

Contempora Collection by Saloni offers a range of wood-plan looks that create effects ranging from rustic chic to sleek contemporary. This versatility means you can use ceramic tile throughout the home, not just on the bathroom floor or kitchen backsplash.

With demand continuing to grow for more healthful building material alternatives, homeowners are rediscovering ceramic tile, and incorporating it into their home improvement and building projects in new ways. To learn more about ceramic tile, visit www.tileofspai nusa.com.

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FROM PAGE 9

available at www.fisherprice.com. Using instructions and a few simple tools such as painters’ tape, minirollers and a tape measure, you can confidently add visual interest and make even a simple room look incredibly special. Visit www.sherwin-

williams.com/do_it_your self.

Create storage to complement the design Keep your child’s bedroom beautiful by incorporating storage elements that will blend with your design and help keep the space clutter-free. For example, try adding a bed

The nursery is another room that lends itself to the dreams of both little ones and their parents. One way to create a cohesive design is to match paint colors with the patterns in baby bedding fashions. For example, a collection of Sherwin-Williams colors is available to coordinate with popular patterns from the FisherPrice Baby Gear line of bassinettes, baby seats, play yards and other nursery items. The palette, available at more than 3,300 Sherwin-

Williams stores nationwide, includes hues that have been hand-selected by color experts to help tie a nursery design together. To round out the baby’s room, try adding rugs, accessories or draperies that pick up the colors used on the walls and in the bedding patterns.

Go with bedroom furniture that endures

Select furniture that can transition to a new bedroom design as your child grows older. For example, with just a change of pillows, a nursery rocker can become part of a cozy reading nook later for a grade-schooler who loves to curl up and read alone. Bunk beds that serve as a pretend fort now can become traditional twin beds later. Even a frilly canopy bed can become a grown-up four-poster later by simply removing the canopy framework and fabric cover.

Corroded windows need replacement? Solution: Easy Fit/RetroFit Aluminum or Vinyl Windows • Fits into existing window opening • No need to tear out the existing window frame • Sliders, single hung, fixed and louver jalousies • FAST TURNAROUND

N EW 24/7 Security, Hurricane Protection & Energy Savings by

Mirrored Aluminum Closet Doors Custom sizes up to 8’ in height, 12’ in width. Available in White, Brown Painted and Satin

Hinged & Sliding Doors, Fixed Window & Patio Lanai Enclosures

Locally owned & operated since 1961

For participating window dealers call: 486-8894

www.rmasalesco.com

99-134 Waiua Way • Aiea, HI 96701

HAWAIIRENOVATION Better Prices For All Your Fabrication Supplies And Maintenance Products!!! Now offering

CUSTOM ENGRAVING on marble products such as address signs, backsplashes, gifts and cremation urns.

www.islandstonectr.com • 848-0989 • M-F 8-4:30 SAT 9-2 1111 Dillingham Blvd. #E1-B Honolulu (by Subway/next to Yohei Restaurant)

The

Quality Builders I

t would be difficult to find a custom builder who offers the type of client-to-customer attention that comes from working with Hua Xia Construction LLC. Owner Xiang Feng Cao and his son, Andy, have built and maintained an outstanding reputation for quality construction that spans 20 years. This father-son team is known for its dedicated, hands-on approach — from simple renovations to multi-million dollar, ground-up development of custom projects. Clients are consistently impressed with the personal attention paid to the smallest details. The company sticks by its motto, “Quality only happens when you care enough to do your very best.” Hua Xia Construction ensures that each and every client is given as much time as needed to deliver an outstanding custom-built product, and it’s no surprise that much of the company’s business comes from referrals. In fact, Hua Xia Construction prides itself on the fact that most of its business comes through personal relationships. Hua Xia Construction workers bring their knowledge and master

Lic# BC-29228

craftsmanship to each project to ensure that it is a success. Whether you are planning to build a retail store or private residence, you can be certain of receiving the highest quality for your investment.

FREE ESTIMATES

Your Residential Home Builder At Hua Xia Construction, clients are always asked questions, including, “How do you envision your completed project?” By asking the right questions and working through the details, company workers help clients realize their vision. Hua Xia Construction’s staff is dedicated to building homes from the ground up or the inside out. From single-family homes to condominiums, no project is too big or too small.

HUA XIA

E. huaxia.hawaii@gmail.com W. www.huaxiaconstructor.com

CALL: 808-636-1888

CONSTRUCTION CONTACT: 636-1888 • www.huaxiaconstructor

Your Commercial Building Solution The company is dedicated to building your commercial projects as well. Commercial building solutions range from store buildouts in Makiki, to restaurants and retail stores developed on Maui. For more information, call 636-1888 or visit the company website at huaxi aconstruction.com. NOV. 13, 2011 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 19

BACKPAGECOVERSTORY

UNITED ROOFING

CONTACT: 428-7947 • www.unitedroofinghi.com

Solar Electric Roofing can be integrated into your existing roof

id you ever wonder what would happen when you need to reroof after installing all of those photovoltaic panels? It would likely cost you more than $100 per panel to remove and re-install your photovoltaic panels each time you reroof. What if you had to termite tent your home? Who would take responsibility for the damages? Solar Roofing by Certainteed resolves all these issues. At United Roofing, we believe that this roofing-integrated crystalline photovoltaic system will revolutionize the residential photovoltaic market. The solar roofing system can be retrofitted into existing asphalt shingle roofs or installed with your new shingle roof. United Roofing is taking the lead in this product line. United Roofing is a five-star certified shingle installer by Certainteed, the nation’s largest shingle roofing manufacturer. What this means to you is that we can use our installation expertise partnered with an established com-

pany (100 years in business) to provide you with the peace of mind and quality you deserve for your roof and solar electric needs. We can consult with you to see if this system is a good match to your home’s design and your goals. Here are just a few of the benefits of this system:

Warranty. You

will have a seven-year workmanship warranty for the entire system, along with a 20-year workmanship warranty for defects on installed asphalt shingles. The photovoltaic panels have a 25-year warranty and are integrated with inverters of differing capacities depending on the system sizing.

Appearance. The finished roof will be much more attractive as the solar panels are flushmounted directly to your roof sheathing. This will result in a sleek and seamless look eliminating the need for racks and mounts. Quality and Durability.

20 | HAWAII RENOVATION | NOV. 13, 2011

The solar roofing product has a Class A fire rating, a 110 mph wind warranty, is durable and resistant to wind uplift and is UL1703 approved. Although not recommended for safety reasons, these panels are walkable. This will minimize the chance of damage if you ever termite tent your home.

Tax Credits. The Certainteed Apollo Solar Roofing system qualifies for both the state and federal tax credits. Cost. When you reroof, you will not have to remove the solar shingles. The shingles surrounding the solar roofing can be reroofed or repaired as needed. This integrated system has a self-sealing membrane as well as a complete flashing system to ensure a watertight roof. This system can be installed into an existing shingle roof, thus eliminating the need to prematurely reroof a home to install a photovoltaic system. The solar roof system is competitively priced with current photovoltaic systems.

Roofing Expertise: At United Roofing we pride ourselves in being able to suggest other green products such as solar attic fans (we are currently offering a free solar fan with a reroof). We can also discuss Energy Star and heatreflective products such as Platinum shingles, elastomeric coating systems for flatter roofs and metal roofing systems. We have trained installers who are experienced to install any type of roofing style that you desire. Although the solar roofing system cannot be installed on flat roofs (4/12 pitch required), many homes on Oahu are ideal for this system, as most asphalt shingle roofs last only 15 to 20 years. Although United Roofing covers the entire island, neighborhoods such as Mililani, Waikele, Kapolei,

Ewa Beach, Aiea and Pearl City, just to name a few, are ideal for this roofing system. If you are a homeowner who wants to maintain the curb appeal of your home, this system may be worth looking into. Another benefit is that this system requires only one penetration in your roof sheathing. Have you counted how many lag bolts or flash mounts it takes to rack an average photovoltaic system? Who will fix a leak near the lag bolt? Your roofer or your solar contractor? This system eliminates this issue, as we will be installing your entire system. For a free estimate, call United Roofing at 428-7947. We would be glad to meet with you to discuss the possibility of installing a roof-integrated solar roofing system.