Hawaii Renovation June 24, 2012

HAWAIIRENOVATION.STARADVERTISER.COM JUNE 24, 2012

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rnative e t l a s t with i d spot y a d e ves th t, borate an some a s s n o luti luding hea se trouble o S t s e Isle P ation — inc home of tho h c i w d San s to fumig p rid your method ents — to hel treatm . See page 3 critters

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BLACK IS BACK he color black is both timeless and elegant.

Everybody loves a little black dress or a sleek black sports car. But when it comes to decorating, black is one of the most feared colors in the spectrum.

Many people think black will make a space too dark, but good designers know that, if used properly, black is a powerful tool. I demonstrated this during a recent design project for my clients, Joanne and John.

They live in an elegant

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house that was lovingly renovated over time by her father. Sadly, he passed away before he got to work on his dream project: the dreary family room in the basement. So, I decided to pick up where he left off.

The room was really shabby, with wood-paneled walls, an outmoded fireplace and uncomfortable seating. However, the rest of the house had a lovely, traditional feeling with a neutral palette and a few black accents. I chose to bring this design scheme

into the basement, but crank up the black to add much-needed sophistication.

There was some structural work to attend to first.

A new ceiling was installed, the room was rewired and a mysterious door that didn’t open was replaced with a wall of windows.

I then painted the wooden walls a tranquil cream (after dealing with lots of primer, that is), put up some 36-inch-high white wainscoting and put down a plank-style, brown

cork floor.

I now had a soft and neutral room. Yet, with a neutral-only scheme, the eye wanders with no place to land. Black accents help focus the eye, but you have to use them wisely — by punctuating, not overpowering. The right amount of black will add excitement and enhance the other tones in a room. I created an L-shaped seating area along two adjoining walls, brought in two beige chenille-covered sofas and added black and blackaccented pillows. These sofas share a charcoal ottoman, a round side table and an area rug with a black-and-neutral pattern that speaks to the new black-and-gold floral drapes.

Along one of the walls, I created a fireside lounge.

The room had an old stone fireplace that was a bit of

an eyesore, so I built up the mantle, painted it white and refitted it with a gas insert. To one side, I put in two very cool designer chairs that are called “smoke chairs” and added a huge wall mirror and a black side table.

No matter where you sit there is a good view of a new 54-inch television, which I put against the final wall. The television sits atop a long wooden console and is flanked by black-and-white framed photographs.

When designing with black, lighting is especially important. So, in addition to recessed lights, I installed a crystal drop pendant outlined in black, two fireplace sconces, a bronze table lamp and a photographer’s tripod lamp.

I also added some accessories: baskets, bowls,

vases, artwork and framed photographs — including one of Joanne’s dad, the master renovator.

One way to elevate good style to great style is to embrace a bit of drama.

And that’s exactly what I did in Joanne and John’s space. By setting up a neutral canvas and then strategically adding dabs and dashes of black, I created a comfortable family room that has just the perfect stroke of sophistication.

Interior designer Candice Olson is host of HGTV’s “Divine Design.”

Hawaii Renovation is a weekly advertising supplement published by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.

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iving in Hawaii, ter- an alternative to fumigation. If is that you can treat just a part of treatment, all unmites are a part of life. you are one homeowner in a a structure. If you live in a high finished wood (such

Everyone either has them or will get them in the near future.

While Hawaii has a handful of different species of termites, only two types have a large economic impact: drywood termites, which leave behind sand-like pellets, and ground termites, which can be easily distinguished by their mud tubes. Although drywood termite colonies are much smaller than ground termites (300 members as opposed to hundreds of thousands), they often swarm and reinfest your house in different areas, thereby spreading throughout your home and requiring extensive treatment.

Unfortunately, if you choose to renovate, you may stumble across these little guys or even worse, you may accidentally introduce a colony by installing infested wood. This is common with new cabinet installations: you may not realize it during the installation, but it is possible that the wood is already infested with a drywood termite colony that may not show signs for a couple of years.

The tradition in Hawaii has always been to fumigate your home for drywood termites.

However, many homeowners cannot fumigate or want to have

multi-unit complex, such as a townhouse or condo, fumigation might not be an option unless all the occupants consent to do so.

Other homeowners might have fragile roofing or may not be able to complete the preparations for fumigating. Fortunately, these days there are several choices for drywood termite treatment other than fumigation.

Heat treatment is tent fumigation’s chemical-free cousin. In this treatment, all wooden areas including wooden studs, beams and cabinets are raised to lethal temperatures. Like fumigation, heat treatments kill off the entire termite colony in one treatment.

However, unlike fumigation, heat treatment does not require a tent over the roof — which means no more broken roof tiles or worrying about fumigators falling off your house. Additionally, heat treatments only take a few hours, so there is no need to find a place to stay for the night. The best thing about a heat treatment

rise, you can have your whole apartment (or just one room) treated without affecting your neighbors.

The concept of heat treatments is fairly simple: All organisms have a “thermal death point” — a temperature at which they can no longer survive. However, the actual heat treatment process is complex: The crew must be experienced and attentive or else failure and/or damage is possible.

The disadvantages of heat include the potential for damage, a lot of prep work may be required and, like fumigation, there is no residual activity when heat is used by itself.

Another alternative to fumigating is a borate treatment. Borate treatments utilize the salt mineral boric acid — a naturally occurring compound found around the world.

In a borate

as wall studs and attic beams) are treated with a boric acid solution that is injected through the walls. Like heat, borate treatments don’t require walking on the roof, nor do they require you to move out of your home. Also, like heat treatments, you can treat partial structures such as a single condo or just the attic. Borate treatments require far less prep work than either heat or fumigation. The best advantage to borate treatments is that there is residual activity — when wood is treated with borate, the boric acid will bond to the wood for the lifetime of the structure. However, unlike fumigation and heat, borate takes a while to work — the boric acid must be ingested by the termites. In addition, borate is difficult to get into inaccessible areas, leaving these spaces susceptible to termite invasion.

The last effective alternative to fumigation is a spot treatment. A variety of products can be used,

depending on your Pest Management Professional (PMP).

Chemicals used in spot treatments can include boric acid as well as several others. The biggest advantage to spot treatments is that it is the least invasive and least expensive. However, they may be ineffective depending on the extent of the infestation and the experience of your PMP. Spot treatments are usually only effective in the earliest stages of an infestation, before you have several colonies in your house.

Whether you have termites in a house, condo or boat, be sure to share all your concerns with your PMP. Ask a lot of questions, and work together to find out what will work best for you.

Sandwich Isle Pest Solutions offers a variety of termite and other pest-control options, including the above services. In fact, Sandwich Isle is the only company in Hawaii to offer all of these options in addition to tent fumigation. What started off as a one-man operation in 1997 has quickly become Hawaii’s largest locally owned pest control company. The company includes seven fumigation crews, a K9 scent detection division and its very own on-staff entomologist.

JUNE 24, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 3

NAILING DOWN THE RIGHT LUMBER COMPANY re you considering building a new structure or adding on to one? If you are, you need to be concerned about the framing materials that will go into your project. If you are hiring a general contractor, you should know what framing materials they are planning to use. If you or your builder is choosing to use framing lumber, then you are making a very good choice — one that will give you years of dependable service, strength and comfort. Not all the lumber available in Hawaii is the same from supplier to supplier.

Honsador Lumber has set a new standard for wood framing in Hawaii.

In conjunction with Pacific Northwest lumber mills such as Weyerhaeuser, one of the best in the industry, Honsador

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brings you what is known as Honsador Premium Lumber. Sourced from sustainable and well-managed forests under the watchful eye of the Sustainable Forest Initiative (SFI), only the highest-quality Douglas Fir is imported for use by builders and homeowners alike.

Honsador’s lumber buyers specify that their timbers have to be free of heart (the center of the tree) and free of wane (absence of bark on the four long edges of the piece) in most cases.

Builders get Honsador Premium Lumber in

4 | HAWAII RENOVATION | JUNE 24, 2012

record time from the mills. Shipments leave the Pacific Northwest every week. Upon arrival, Honsador Premium Lumber is quickly processed through a HiBor treatment. This is a time-tested and very successful, non-toxic termite and fungus treatment that provides a 20-year, $5,000 warranty to qualified projects. The lumber is then positioned for sale and is considered the freshest, cleanest and easiest-to-nail lumber in the state.

Honsador Premium Lumber is the new industry standard for quality, freshness and appearance.

Here are some points to consider: • Wood will not rust.

• Wood is resistant to heat

gain (wood is 400 times less heat conductive than steel and 8 1/2 times less than concrete).

• Wood is a renewable product.

• Wood framing is the least expensive framing medium, preferred by builders and offers superior thermal performance as well as acoustic absorption.

You’ll get all these benefits at Honsador Lumber. Others claim to have high-grade materials and great service, but at Honsador Lumber, the

company delivers on that promise every day, hundreds of times a week and on each and every order.

Look for the name Honsador Premium Lumber. It only is available across Honsador Lumber’s seven locations in

Hawaii, from Hilo on the Big Island to Kilauea on Kauai. Honsador Lumber has proudly served Hawaii’s builders and homeowners for the past 77 years. Call 682-2011 on Oahu or visit them at www.honsador.com.

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BY KAREN NAKAMURA he Building Industry Association of Hawaii (BIA-Hawaii) will present the eighth annual Remodel It Right/ Remodel It Green Expo Friday, Aug. 10 through Sunday, Aug. 12 at a new location, Neal Blaisdell Exhibition Hall.

More than 200 exhibitor booths will showcase Hawaii’s top contractors, suppliers, building industry experts and associates. Interested companies are welcome to contact BIA-Hawaii to participate in this convenient, centrally located showcase of remodeling industry expertise. The event theme, “Remodel It Right, Remodel It Green,” will enlighten and educate homeowners on the latest products, services and trends in energy savings and sustainable living.

Unique features of this award-winning expo include “Meet the Experts” presentations that provide ongoing roundtable interactive discussions from the entire spectrum of the remodeling industry as well as the “Remodel It Right” panel of experts. These indepth, round-table discussions will cover key topics to provide a strong foundation for your remodeling project.

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Architecture, General Contracting, Contractor Licensing, Permitting Basics, Prioritizing Your Remodel and Energy Savings and Credits all are offered in 10-minute rotating sessions. A free Remodeling Planning Kit will be offered to every family attending the three panel sessions, while supplies last.

This is the last call for

companies interested in becoming exhibitors in the August exposition at the Blaisdell. For additional information, contact Clarice Watanabe by calling 629-7503 or emailing ckw@biaha waii.org.

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

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A ONE-STOP SHOP FOR YOUR REMODELING NEEDS omeowners Design Center has been family-owned and operated since 1969.

Whether you are looking for flooring, kitchen or bath cabinets, countertops or window coverings, Homeowners Design Center provides one-stop convenience with a large selection of the latest products.

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Quality design proves the company listens The company has a specialist in every department.

Consultants have many years of experience in their fields and will work together to provide you with coordinating designs, quality products and professional installations. The company also provides design services for customers with its free estimates. Kitchens have become the gathering place for family and friends. Open and warm, they are no longer the closed-off spaces they were 20 years ago. Homeowners Design Center’s staff of experi-

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enced kitchen and bath designers, along with its flooring consultants, can develop a design that fits your lifestyle, space and budget.

A company that chooses the best for its customers Access to a variety of products and vendors means Homeowners Design Center will recommend what will work best for you, regardless of the brand. The company’s constantly updated sample and display materials from local and national vendors means less time researching and less leg work for your project. With so many choices for cabinetry, the National Kitchen and Bath

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Association recommends asking for a cabinet that is KCMA-certified (Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association), CARB-compliant (California Air Resource Board) and has a long warranty. Homeowners Design Center features many cabinet lines that will meet those guidelines or exceed them with lifetime warranties and USA-made materials.

The company also can help you choose the perfect granite, marble, maple butcher block, Corian, Staron, Silestone or

Zodiaq countertop for your kitchen or bath. To find the right flooring, choose from wood, carpet, vinyl, ceramic and laminates.

For window coverings, choose from elaborate drapery and valance combinations, or clean vertical blinds as well as matching fabric shades.

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ou’ve made the decision to remodel your home.

The budget range and project scope have been set.

You’ve even preemptively told your sister-in-law she’ll need to host Christmas (All right, that was before you knew you were going to remodel). Now what?

Following these tips will turn your vision (or lack of vision) into a ravishing remodel:

Y

Setting the style scene Many homeowners know exactly where their preferences fall on the style spectrum. Others have no idea. As a first step, it’s wise to determine how to articulate your personal style before moving forward with any steps of the remodel.

Flipping through magazines, home design blogs and becoming aware of how you feel in other people’s homes should help you determine your style.

Developing a mood board, even if you think you know

How to identify your personal design and make it come to life

what you want for a space, can help you visualize your design style. A mood board will ensure that others (professionals or family members) see eye-to-eye with you on your vision. Gather items on your mood board such as colors, patterns and images that make you feel good. You (and a designer) can make sense and draw meaning from it later.

There are resources online for developing these boards.

Pinterest, a tool that allows users to “pin” their favorite items, is growing in popularity, and KraftMaid Cabinetry has a tool on its website that allows visitors to collect their inspirations in one place.

Dreams turned into design Now that you’re in tune with your style, it’s time to get moving. The remodeling process is overwhelming. Some brave souls attempt to tackle it on their own, and it can end up

being a full-time job — a time commitment most homeowners simply can’t afford.

Designers are a great resource. “One of the biggest advantages working with a designer on a home project is they really understand functionality, while accomplishing your desired style,” said Sarah Reep, director of designer relations and education at KraftMaid Cabinetry.

Working with professionals doesn’t have to break the bank and can actually save you time, money and your sanity. Make sure they are fully qualified for the task. For example, National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA) members are designers who specialize in kitchens and bathrooms. Visit www. nkba.org to find a NKBA professional in your area.

At the end of the day, you’ll be thankful for the time spent during the dreaming and designing process.

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UPDATING YOUR HOME WITH VINYL SIDING ecessity is the mother of all invention. This saying is true. And to Tropical Wholesale and its president, Matthew Houar, who has been doing vinyl siding in Hawaii for more than 30 years, the proven success of vinyl siding must be taken seriously as the way to keep up with the constant maintenance of your home.

Vinyl siding has been in Hawaii since the 1960s and the results are in. There are thousands of homes protected with vinyl siding right now, and Tropical Wholesale has worked on many of those homes. And like those homes, you can reap the benefits of having to never paint your home again. Vinyl siding is proven over the years to not chip, crack, peel or stain while protecting your

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home from our harsh salt-air conditions.

Vinyl will retain its color with only a 1 percent fade factor and also can serve as the added insulation you need to reduce your home’s temperature. And all this has been proven through the test of time right here in Hawaii.

When Houar started the company in the ’70s, paint had lead, mercury and other harsh chemicals. Back then, a paint job would last from eight to 12 years. Nowadays, however, many of the chemicals in paint have been removed, resulting in expensive paint that usually lasts between two and five years.

As a result, thousands of Hawaii consumers have turned to vinyl siding and discovered great results. Vinyl siding always looks good, and you only need to

wash it with soap and water occasionally to keep it clean for a lifetime.

Tropical Wholesale also has programs to address wood rot, salt rot and termites, as these are always on homeowners’ minds. There are vertical, horizontal and shake styles to choose from, and lots of colors are available. All come with a lifetime warranty.

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Extend summer fun with outdoor lighting more pleasant with these tips:

Lighting is typically layered into a room or outdoor space in three ways: overhead, task and ambient.

Even outdoors — where there are no typical boundaries and borders — those three layers are necessary.

Outdoor overhead lighting is important for visibility of steps, paths and walking surfaces.

a space is a great way to give people barriers, both vertically and horizontally. “Lights in a tree create something akin to a chandelier hung in the middle of the sky, and even accent lights in the general area of the edge of a patio, deck or porch will glaze across the space and provide enough of a comfort level for people to understand where things are,” said Jeff Dross of Kichler Lighting.

Enhance security

Add decorative elements

To improve visibility and security, combine a motion detector with a sconce to illuminate dark corners or areas near entrances, said David Kitts, a designer with Hubbardton Forge.

Just as patios and other outdoor elements help to enhance the style of an outdoor space, so too can lighting contribute to a good design.

For example, step lights are essential for safe passage, but also highlight molding or trim details.

Patio lights provide ambiance as well as illumination for cooking.

Improve navigation

rom neighborhood barbecues to kids’ play time, summer means outside time. Much of that activity occurs during the day, but darkness also is a great time to enjoy the outdoors.

The right light can make evening hours safer and more enjoyable, according to the American Lighting Association. Make your outdoors

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Create outdoor rooms Outdoor lighting at the borders of

MURAKAMI’S ROOFING Full Service Residential Roofing Contractor SERVING HAWAII FOR TWO GENERATIONS

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NEW HOUSE BUILD $115 a sq foot plus tax

Hardie Board Siding/Bamboo Flooring Standard Plumbing Fixtures *Minimum 2,000 square footage / Restrictions apply.

WORK IN PROGRESS

~ RENTALS ~

FINISHED

License No. C-26041

New Elite Dealer Pricing Call Today!

Premium Quality

Mitsubishi 255W Modules Great Durability in High-Saline Areas Excellent Workmanship & Quality 25 Year Power Output Warranty Lead-free Solder Connections

Upcoming Solar Open House Events June 30, 2012, Mililani Come and inspect our quality PV installations for yourself and ask questions with our Solar Professionals onsite.

Made 100% in Japan Monocrystalline Cells Half-Cut Cell 4 Busbar Cell Black Frame

SINCE

FREE GUTTERS up to 60 linear feet with complete reroof Exp: July 15, 2012

1993

Homeowners user friendly Mini Excavators, Dingos & Bobcats available.

New Homes • Additions • Renovations • Commercial Residential, Kitchen, Bath & Remodeling Cabinetry & Woodwork • General Millwork

ISLANDWIDE DELIVERY

FREE ESTIMATES 348-8270

For A Free Estimate For All Projects Call Victor: 428-5191 or 531-3888

A+

Come and visit our showroom at

• Licensed • Bonded • Insured

Lic. #C24921 www.murakamiroofing.net • murakamiroofing@gmail.com

Y3 Construction, Inc./Lic#BC15731

1018 Smith St. • Hon., HI 96817 www.cvconstructionhawaii.com

Rated A+!

We’re

18 Years of Quality Service to Hawaii

Call Us For Elite Dealer Pricing

842-5853 Visit us online at www.AlternateEnergyHawaii.com

Patented Uniclic® Technology for Fast, Adhesive-Free Installation

KAIMUKI 1st & Waialae • 735-3005 KANEOHE 45-620 Kamehameha Hwy. (Behind 7-11) • 262-0900

SAND ISLAND 330 Sand Island Access Rd. • 841-6183

Family Owned 1 C-21 Lic#12015 • C-7 C-5

SQ. FT.

Alternate Energy Inc., 96-1276 Waihona St. #124 Pearl City, HI 96782, Sales@AlternateEnergyHawaii.com

SEE STORE FOR DETAILS. JUNE 24, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 9

A SOLAR COMPANY THAT KEEPS ON SHINING

BY SARAH PACHECO s the mercury rises this summer, don’t let your electric bill do the same. Harness the energy of the sun by making the switch to a solar hot water system, the most cost-effective retrofit and new-build solar system on the market.

With the recent spotlight on renewable power sources, a solar hot water system is still the best value and lowest-cost system available today.

That’s because solar hot water systems are designed to reduce water heating costs by as much as 90 percent (note that in Hawaii households, water heating typically accounts for 30-50 percent of utility bills), and a properly installed system can save

A

10 x 10 Special Only $1999 +tax

ment by reducing air pollution, greenPONCHO’S SOLAR house gases and furSERVICE ther damage caused by transporting and contact // 422-4266 burning fossil fuels. web // www.ponchossolarservices.com The reasons to go solar keep getting homeowners anywhere hotter and hotter, but take from $15 to $20 per per- a minute to cool your jets son in electric bills each before choosing a solar contractor to do the job. month.

With 30-plus years of That’s in addition to the Poncho’s $750 instant rebate from experience, the Hawaii Energy Solar Service uses only Efficiency Program and the best-quality materials other state and federal tax on all of its systems and credits homeowners re- offers a 12-year uncondiceive upon upgrading to a tional workmanship warnew solar hot water sys- ranty on its exclusive premium solar hot water system.

Besides the incredible tem package — the (but limited) financial longest warranty in the incentives, replacing a business. The locally conventional electric owned and operated comwater heater with a solar pany also is one of the hot water system also longest-standing compahelps save the environ- nies in Hawaii and

employs a full-time team of experienced service crews that can handle any emergency.

Call Poncho’s Solar at 422-4266 for a free, noobligation estimate on a solar hot water system, or visit the company’s website at www.ponchosso larservices.com to learn more.

WOOD, Building Naturally.

AND

It Just Makes Cents!

2012 SUMMER SPECIAL! Limited Time Discount on our Premium 12 Year Warranty System.

Great for system upgrades, gas conversions and new construction.

Poncho’s Solar Limited Time Offer The Value of WOOD New Finish Cabinets Just Arrived!

1,00000 Rebate

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82% to 107% price advantage over other building materials

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on Hot Water System

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Offer good thru 7/31/12. Some restrictions apply.

Coupon must be presented at time of estimate.

Cannot be combined with other offers.

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Ph: 853-2088 • Fax: 853-2058 500 Alakawa St.#106, Hon., HI 96817 / Mon-Sat 8am - 5:30pm • Sun. Closed (Downtown - behind Costco Gas Station)

Website: cccabinetsgranite.com

10 | HAWAII RENOVATION | JUNE 24, 2012

For more information ab bout w wood/lu wo umber projects or to learn about the value off mem membership mbe p in HLPA

FREE Estimate! OAHU 422-4266 or

Visit Our Website

www.HawaiiLumber.com 541-WOOD ( 9663 )

ponchossolarservices.com Lic # C-25358

Maui, Big Island, Kauai, Lanai 1-855-417-6527 www.WaltersElectricInc.com Lic # C-8876

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT PUBLISHED BY OAHU PUBLICATIONS, INC. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

For a weekend makeover, focus on the following:

Paint Be sure to choose a semi-gloss or bathroom-specific paint, since the steam from hot showers and excessive water flow can make the bathroom a harsh environment.

Faucets

Achieve a stylish, safe bathroom in little time

any homeowners are looking to redo and update their homes, but with busy schedules, they often only have time on the week-

M

ends. While a complete overhaul of the house might be unrealistic for this time frame, a bathroom makeover is completely possible.

When selecting your faucet, consider style, finish, coordinating products and quality. The new Moen Boardwalk bath collection, for instance, features a blend of vintage design and classic lines for a stunning look in any bath — while also offering a wide selection of matching showering products and accessories. It’s available in chrome and Moen’s Spot Resist Brushed Nickel finishes, which does exactly what it says — resists fingerprints and water spots. Plus, Moen products feature a limited lifetime warranty to ensure quality.

Accessories Bath accessories, such as robe hooks, paper holders or towel bars, are an ideal way to keep your room looking neat and coordinated. But the latest products also can add thoughtful functionality — and even safety — to your bath.

For instance, are you tired of finding towels on the counter or floor, rather than hanging on the towel ring? Put this pet peeve in the past with the new Moen Retractable Towel Ring.

The new accessory offers the traditional benefit of a towel ring, with a retractable cord to allow the towel to be used while it remains neatly in place.

Showering The shower is a place to escape and relax — so be sure to find products to enhance this space. Today’s showerheads come in a variety of designs — wallmount, handheld, multifunction, rainshower — or a

• colors as an accent • artwork and fabric to create a focal point • stone & glass tile to polish a space Saturday, July 28, 9 a.m • 701 North Nimitz Hwy. Register at bellapietra.com 587-7779

combination of all. Find the one that suits your showering style and be sure to choose a finish to coordinate with the rest of your bath.

Need more space in your tub/shower? Try adding a curved shower rod. In addition to adding a unique style statement in your bath, it’ll add up to six more inches of elbow room.

Finish the look with a new set of Moen double shower curtain rings that offer a unique doublehook design to separate the decorative curtain from the liner.

Accents

Once you’ve chosen all the hardware for your bath, you’ll need to think of the softer accents to help pull your design together. A new shower curtain, decorative towels, throw rug and curtains will add the finishing touch to your new space.

For more information about Moen products, visit moen.com.

FREE

Your Photovoltaic Experts - Complete Turnkey Service Solar Hot Water System Installation, Repairs & Maintenance Prep All Project Documents For Permits & Utilities

Call for a FREE Evaluation

(808) 836-3749

For Repairs: (808) 927-2169

100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED JUNE 24, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 11

INTERO GROUP HAWAII

contact // (808) 647-4477 web // www.interogrouphawaii.com

TRUSTING IN THE

REAL DEAL re you looking to replace your windows, siding or doors? Do you find it difficult to sort out the information you receive from salespeople or vendors? Our team at Intero Group, Hawaii is here to help you with your home remodeling needs, and give you our latest tips on how to avoid rip-offs.

Many salespeople employ high-pressure tactics such as pushing you for a cash deal or up-front payment. We suggest that you evaluate how attentive salesmen are to your needs, not just how fast they can sign a contract. Also, do not be misguided about home improvement-related tax credits. Even your tax officer may not have all the informa-

A

tion. To find out if you qualify for a tax credit, we suggest that you visit government websites and read the updates for the current year.

According to the Better Business Bureau, the volume of complaints about poor window replacements is second only to car repairs. The homeowners are upset with the poor workmanship, so sub-contractors and employee installers gain bad reputations. Since sub-contractors get paid for every window they install, they are encouraged to install as many as they possibly can, paying little attention to quality. And why do hourly wage employee installers oftentimes do a poor job? They also

get paid by the window installed.

As you can see, when profit motivates people and businesses more than happy customers, the resulting quality of their work is poor.

Finally, watch out for installers who do not install the right product. Before installation begins, compare the brand and model of the product (i.e. windows, siding, doors) delivered to your home with those listed on the contract, or ask to see the contractor’s order sheet. Make sure the suppliers are reputable.

At Intero Group, we believe that the quality work of our team, best materials and client relationships are key to the success of our business. That is why we work only with industry-leading manufacturers and never stop improving our skills.

Call us today for advice and a free estimate at (808) 647-4477, or visit us online at www.intero group hawaii.com.

SUPER DEAL!!!

Weatherproofing Hawaii

8 Cabinets

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(Airport - across Lagoon Drive) 2959 Koapaka St. • Honolulu, HI 96819 Ph: 836-8181 • Fax: 836-8166

www.gcgchi.com

12 | HAWAII RENOVATION | JUNE 24, 2012

1,000

(Maple Leaf Red)

for $8,808 INSTALLED Offer expires 06/30/2012

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Offer expires 06/30/2012

Licensed. Insured. Bonded. Hawaii Operated.

Call us now 808.647.4477

401 Kamakee St., Ste. 417, Honolulu Visit us online www.interogrouphawaii.com

All for $1,299* Some restrictions may apply. Call for details.

Save 15% on installation. Free estimates.

COME AND VISIT OUR SHOWROOM TODAY! 847-3288 • 2006 REPUBLICAN ST • HONOLULU

Email: dawingtrading@gmail.com • www.dawingtrading.com Open Mon-Sun 8 am - 5pm

LIC# C-31749

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT PUBLISHED BY OAHU PUBLICATIONS, INC. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

411

THE

ment with HECO.

HI-POWER SOLAR

contact // 342-0802 web // www.hi-powersolar.com

ON GOING

Taxation has issued a directive defining what constitutes a PV “system” to determine how many credits can be legitimately claimed by the taxpayer.

Unfortunately, some firms have engaged in schemes to mislead potential customers into claiming extra credits. In one proposal, 33 PV panels were wired through five central inverters to justify claiming credits for five systems. This was accomplished by dividing the array of collectors into three seven-panel and two six-panel “strings.”

This flies in the face of logic as most systems using micro-inverters limit the maximum number of PV modules to 13, 15 or 17 per “string.”

If the tax department challenges the five-system claim, it’s the taxpayer who is ultimately liable for taxes incurred on the disallowed amount — not the solar company.

Even if accepted by the state, the net cost after tax credits is more than $21,100, exceeding that of other designs by $4,000-6,000 or more.

GREEN

he highly competitive marketing climate offers an abundance of companies engaged in the solar industry to choose from. Along with the opportunities to benefit financially, consumers also must be cautious to avoid being victimized by the questionable sales tactics of a few.

While there is little doubt of the wisdom and viability of “going green,” being aware of certain basic facts can keep consumers from making imprudent choices:

T

Tax credits The renewable energy credits offered by both the federal and state tax authorities are the heart of the attractiveness and viability of solar energy. For both solar water heating and photovoltaic (PV) installations, the 30 percent federal credit and 35 percent state credit will offset up to 65 percent of the gross cost. The federal credit is unlimited, while the state of Hawaii caps the credit at $2,250 for water heaters and $5,000 per PV system.

The state Department of

Over capacity PV systems are popularly described by over-zealous promoters as being “your own utility company.” The truth is that this is a misleading overstatement of the facts. The net-metering agreement with HECO does not provide for residential systems to “sell” any excess power generated to them.

“Selling” power to the utility company remains only with commercial photovoltaic systems.

This involves a different arrange-

Power Purchase Agreement A Power Purchase Agreement, or PPA, is a leasing plan under which you substitute the solar company for the utility company as the provider of your energy needs. The premise is that payments are somewhat lower than what the utility company would charge you and that payment increases would be manageable. Up-front costs could be “zero down” (with escalating monthly payments), “some money down” (e.g. $5,000, with lower non-escalating payments), or a “pre-paid lease” (e.g. $23,000 paid up-front, with no monthly payments).

They operate similarly to automobile leases, but for a longer term of 20 years. The structure and terms are dependent on interest rate concessions and the application of rebates. The energy tax credits are the major component as the solar company keeps the credits. They claim the consumer is then freed from concerns that our taxing authorities might modify or eliminate the credits, but you can be sure that the leasing deals would be adversely affected and markedly different should that ever occur. In addition, a minimum FICO score of 700 is required for standard leasing programs.

In general terms, leasing is better than “doing nothing” and remaining a “hostage” to the power company. But, based on the figures provided, purchasing your own PV system is an even better option. Consider that many systems have a “pay-back” period on the net cost of about five years. In those cases, there would be no payments to the utility company from years six to 20 beyond the minimum “connection” charge. In the standard leasing plans, monthly payments continue to the end of the 20-year term, at which time you can either buy the system, or have the solar company remove it.

You’d then be back with the utility company.

For additional information, call Hi-Power Solar at 342-0802.

FREE In-Home Consultation & Estimate

Custom Homes • Additions 737-7766 Remodeling • Kitchen • Bath townandcountrybuildersllc.com BC-11768 • Bonded • Insured

Full Construction Services

Free Estimates (808) 754-3393 or (808) 937-7938 ®

PCO 924

JUNE 24, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 13

ADDING A SPECIAL TOUCH TO YOUR KITCHEN WITH CUSTOMIZED GRANITE, CABINETRY hana Building Supply is the business homeowners and contractors trust.

The company’s selection includes a variety of high-quality kitchen and bathroom materials at very reasonable prices, from ready-made to custom cabinetry, a full OHANA BUILDING line of granite counterSUPPLY tops, stainless steel sinks and hardwood and contact // 833-8338 laminate flooring, all to address // 2815 Kaihikapu St. fit any architectural email // sales@ohanabuildingsupply.com style.

Ohana Building Supply’s instock cabinets are constructed of all style doors and frames. plywood boxes with solid Ohana Building Supply also wood face frames and doors. has two new styles of cabinets Locally stocked are Maple, that are available, Elegant Light or Dark Cherry and Cherry and Honey Beech.

Milzen Cabinets’ Espresso These new cabinets are faceOak and White Oak, con- framed cabinets constructed structed of plywood boxes and of 5/8-inch plywood boxes and engineered MDF (medium 3/4-inch solid wood doors and density fiberboard) flat-panel frames. The cabinets feature

O

solid wood dove-tailed drawers and come standard with soft-closing hardware for doors and drawers. These cabinets look as good inside as they do on the outside and would be a great addition to any kitchen remodel.

Currently all of Ohana’s cabinet lines are on sale and, as

always, if you buy a set of kitchen cabinets, you get the granite free (for select colors). Ohana Building Supply is having a blowout sale on its Maple Shaker cabinets, which are being offered at $39.99 per linear foot (some exclusions apply, not valid with free granite promotion). This promo won’t last long and only applies to stock on hand. If you’re on a budget or are thinking of remodeling a rental unit, these cabinets will be the perfect fit.

Ohana Building Supply also stocks a selection of granite countertops starting at $99, such as Taisan White, Bainbrook Peach, White Galaxy, River White, Jurparana Golden Kam and Lapidus, just to name a few. Finished with an elegant bull-nose edge, these

“Serving Hawaii Since 1981”

FREE Granite

Affordable Plumbing Bath & Kitchen Renovations

We install handicap showers

DisSenio co r un t

Maple Shaker Cabinets

ONE WEEK ONLY!

$39.99/Linear Ft. Some exclusions apply, price varies with pantry, drawer base and corner cabinets. Promotions not valid with free granite promo.

Accessories sold separately. All sales final no refunds or returns.

Beautiful SE Asian Wood - Resembles Braz Cherry

After

www.AffordablePlumbingHawaii.com • Repair & New Installation • Change Galvanize to Copper

On select colors, While supplies last

When you buy a set of Kitchen Cabinets

SOLID KEMPAS (3/4” X 3.75”) Before

stylish countertops add character to any kitchen and bath.

While supplies last, Ohana is offering free granite (select styles to choose from) with the purchase of any kitchen cabinet set. Other granites are 10 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. Servicing both homeowners and large contractors, the friendly staff will provide excellent customer service, from design to installation — the completed product is sure to shine. Visit the company’s showroom and ask the sales staff about current promotions and specials that are available.

Showroom hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Lic. # BC-11700

734-2032 or 230-8308

14 | HAWAII RENOVATION | JUNE 24, 2012

ONLY $4.99/SF! or just $12.49/sf installed

NEW CABINET STYLES IN STOCK!

Limited to stock on hand incl. all materials + labor - nail down, no demolition

Please join us for our FREE seminar

WOOD AND STONE FLOORING 101 Sat, 07/14/12 10AM Please call to reserve a seat

Lic# C-30215

Exp. 6/30/12

Hawaii’s Best Flooring!

926 KOHOU STREET ✦ HONOLULU ✦ 847-7711

Email: sales@ohanabuildingsupply.com

www.ohanabuildingsupply.com

2815 Kaihikapu Street Honolulu, HI 96819 Ph: 808.833.8338 Fax: 808.833.8339

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT PUBLISHED BY OAHU PUBLICATIONS, INC. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

ELITE DESIGN GROUP LLC

contact // 847-3888 address // 570 A Dillingham Blvd.

GIVING CUSTOMERS A VOICE IN THE RENOVATION PROCESS

BY SARAH PACHECO lite Design Group LLC strives to turn dream kitchens into reality by working handin-hand with its customers from day one.

The Honolulu-based design and construction firm walks clients through the entire design process step-by-step, starting with an initial meeting in which Elite Design Group’s project managers will give a free estimate on the project based on each client’s personal budget.

“Some people have $50,000 to work with, while others may have $150,000 to work with. So instead of coming to the client with a proposal right off, this introduction phase lets us know

E

their budget so we can put together something that is affordable to them and that they’ll be happy with,” said owner Ray Adams.

From there, Elite Design Group and the client work together over the course of several

meetings to put ideas to paper and piece together what the final outcome of the project will be.

“We walk the customer through everything step-by-step,” Adams said. “We come out and do measurements, we go shopping

with them for materials ... there’s a whole process.”

Clients remain closely involved even after the actual physical labor begins, as Elite Design Group stays in daily contact to keep customers updated with their project’s progress. And should any unforeseen problems or setbacks occur, Elite Design Group’s team of competent, experienced workers inform homeowners immediately of the situation and their proposed solutions.

“A big part of the project is to make the client feel like they’ve actually done part of the work,” Adams said. “Overall, we make the customer feel like they’ve been part of the project.” Call Elite Design Group at 8473888 to set up an appointment, or visit its showroom, located at 570 A Dillingham Blvd., during normal business hours, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Monday-Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.

SERVING ALL YOUR ELECTRICAL NEEDS Call

New Construction ■ Remodels ■ Maintenance ■ Trouble Calls

630-6741 or 285-3663 for a Free Consultation

Lic# BC-29228

FREE ESTIMATES! CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE!

CALL: 537-5349 FAX: 843-2729

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

JUNE SPECIAL

$1,999 10x10 Kitchen Cabinets with granite *Come in for Details. Expires 6/30/12

Commercial & Residential

Design Remodel New Builds •

•

In-stock Cabinetry & Flooring

FREE Estimates: Call 847-3888

BC29425

Showroom: 570 Dillingham Boulevard

JUNE 24, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 15

FREE WORKSHOP Saturday, June 30 at 9 a.m.

• Expand your outdoor space through interior design techniques.

Presented by Designer for a Day

bamboo and river rock to immediately transform and define living areas

FREE SEMINAR Featuring Interior Designers

Designer for a Day

Learn Easy Secrets of Outdoor Design Saturday, June 30 at 9 a.m.

RSVP requested at

• Softening edges within the space

geobunga.com

4299 Lawehana St., Honolulu

• Reawakening “dead” space with design accents

LEARNING THE SECRETS OF

OUTDOOR DESIGN ou’ve seen it and you may even be a victim of it — the cluttered lanai filled with junk. With Hawaii’s enjoyable weather yearround, many homes and condos have lanais or outdoor spaces. Yet, for many, these covered outdoor areas become a magnet for bulky or rarely used items. Let Designer for a Day help you organize the chaos with design strategies gleaned from decades serving Hawaii’s finest homes, resort properties and commercial spaces, as it presents a free workshop outlining easy techniques to expand your home by transforming your outdoor space into a useable, tranquil oasis.

“For many in Hawaii, the outdoor areas go unused, which makes no sense given our mild weather, clean air and tropical vegetation,” said Andrew Dedrick, Geobunga executive director. “This seminar will inspire people to reclaim this living space, by educating them on interior design trends that work specifi-

Y

16 | HAWAII RENOVATION | JUNE 24, 2012

cally for Hawaii homes.”

The dynamic duo, Joan RobinsonWhitaker and Jean Wall, will present the free workshop Saturday, June 30 at 9 a.m. Designer for a Day can quickly and efficiently transform any space — indoor or out — in a matter of hours. During the seminar, Joan and Jean will touch on the following: • Turning your lanai into an outdoor oasis and instantly adding square footage to your home or condo • Creating a focal point using color or texture •

Using

Attendees are encouraged to bring a few photos of their outdoor area for a free consultation with Designer for a Day following the workshop. This will give them a better idea of how to redesign their problem space, so that it becomes an accessible, comfortable place to better enjoy their home.

To ensure your seat, reservations are highly recommended. Please register for this free seminar at www.geobunga.com.

Geobunga turns the ordinary into extraordinary as Hawaii’s best resource for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor experience.

Providing unique garden elements from around the world, Geobunga specializes in stone pavers and benches, decorative rocks, ceramic pots, fountains and bamboo accents, as well as a variety of plants. With the best prices, selection and service in the state, each visit to Geobunga brings something new to discover.

422.4567 Before

After

OPEN DAILY 9 a.m.– 5 p.m.

ACRYLIC & SILICONE

✔ 50 Years Material Warranty by Gaco ✔ Professionally Installed or Do-It-Yourself

THE COOL ROOF STORE 575 COOKE ST., KAKA‘AKO www.leakmaster.com

Products shown: Hawaiian Sunguard & GacoRoof

pottery,

GEOBUNGA contact // 422-4567 address // 4299 Lawehana St. web // www.geobunga.com

FREE HOMEBUILDING & RENOVATION SEMINAR

• No sales pitch — Just the facts • Receive accurate & up-to-date information • Homeowners learned something new & saved thousands

Sat., June 30

Call 593-2808

9 – 11 a.m.

Honolulu Country Club

or register online at www.grahambuilders.com

BC-16446

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT PUBLISHED BY OAHU PUBLICATIONS, INC. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

A WIN-WIN SITUATION FOR

HOMEOWNERS Taking advantage of improvements, savings in solar electricity he solar industry is evolving constantly, which continues to bring down the cost of a typical system. Samsung has introduced a new 255-watt panel that works well with the Enphase M215 micro-inverter. It costs less than the older, less powerful panels. Samsung also has upped the warranty period for the improved panels to 10 years, which is double the industry standard. Enphase micro-inverters allow maximum production from your system and they come with free lifetime online monitoring and a full 25-year warranty. Right now, EnergyPro Hawaii is offering a summer special of $24,999 for a 4.59 kw system.

This includes 18 Samsung 255watt panels with Enphase M215 micro-inverters, two circuits and

T

ENERGYPRO HAWAII

contact // 596-2890 web // Energyprohawaii.com

installation. This is for a standard installation, which does not require electrical upgrades on standard asphalt shingle roofing. Other-sized systems are available at similar pricing, and help is always available for more challenging installations that require additional electrical work or are placed on non-traditional roofing.

Circuit penetrations reduce the amount of PV systems that can be installed in a neighborhood and make system installation difficult

or impossible once the 15-percent penetration level has been reached. EnergyPro Hawaii has experience with checking penetration levels and designing systems that will oftentimes work in areas that appear to be closed off.

Keeping your solar electric system under the 10 kw threshold means that you don’t have to provide additional insurance for your system to HECO, and installing a solar hot water system with your PV system can

eliminate or greatly reduce your electric bill. Solar hot water still provides the best financial return and is the most efficient form of solar power available. If you don’t already have a solar hot water system, it makes sense to incorporate one into your solar plan. EnergyPro Hawaii is licensed to install both hot water and electric systems. The company has saved many homeowners a significant amount of money and heartache by designing an overall energy solution.

Did you know that you can add solar electric panels to an existing system and get an additional tax credit, without having to add

CABINETS BY DH SQUARED

17 4:45&.4 t 40-"3 )05 8"5&3 t 40-"3 "55*$ '"/4

Introducing Samsung’s New 255-Watt Panel 10-Year Product Warranty.

Higher Efficiency.

Superior Quality.

circuits or wiring? As long as it’s in a different calendar year, you don’t need to justify your tax credit by adding circuits to your system. This allows you to install a starter system or a solar electric system along with a solar hot water system and not worry about paying for extra panels that you might not need. You can monitor your electrical usage for several months to fine-tune the number of panels that you need to offset your electrical bill as much as possible.

Call EnergyPro Hawaii at 5962890 for more information or a free energy consultation — you have nothing to lose! Or visit the website at Energyprohawaii.com.

Bathtub to Shower Conversions

Call for a Free Estimate

358-7780

www.allislandbath.com

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

Custom Built in our State of the Art Cabinet Shop

WE ALSO OFFER:

New Home Construction Additions and Renovations

500 Alakawa St. #116C M-F 9am-4pm Weekend and after hours, call for appointment

Over 20 Years Experience Locally owned & operated.

GUY KAKUGAWA Contractor’s Lic: #C31944, #C31945

Contractor Lic. #BC-30395

Custom Kitchen & Bath • 808.383.2218 Best Prices Guaranteed With Installation of the Same Equipment

CALL 596-2890 FOR A FREE ESTIMATE 825 Halekauwila St. Honolulu, HI 96813 www.energyprohawaii.com energyprohawaii@gmail.com Lic. #BC-20690 *Certain restrictions apply. Not combinable with any other offers or promotions.

Over 30 Years Track Record • Free Estimates on Split Systems • We Sell, Service, Install & Repair A+ Rating We also sell Portable A/C’s, Split Systems, Window & Thru the Wall A/C’s, Flush Mount A/C’s Before you buy a split system, make sure you’re buying the highest energy savings available. The higher the EER the more you save.

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Call for an Appointment 94-529 Ukee St. #105, Waipio Gentry 96797 (Across from The Womens Wellness Center)

JUNE 24, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 17

CREATE A FUNCTIONAL YET STYLISH LANAI WITH CONCRETE STAINS, OVERLAYS ake advantage of the pleasant weather we enjoy year round by extending your indoor spaces to the outdoors. Create a lanai perfect for lounging, dining and entertaining. Set the tone for the room with new flooring.

Simply resurface your existing flooring with concrete stains or a custom concrete overlay from Granicrete Hawaii. Plain, outdated and unsightly surfaces are dramatically transformed into stunning spaces in a matter of days.

Granicrete Hawaii’s concrete stains or decorative overlays provide lanai flooring that is functional and weatherproof yet beautiful. Concrete stains, available in a wide variety of colors, are applied directly to your existing concrete slab without changing its texture. Decorative borders can be created with saw cuts and different colors to create an inviting space.

T

GRANICRETE HAWAII

contact // 626-5418 address // 525 Kokea St. Unit C7 web // www.granicretehawaii.com

Before

Handcrafted concrete overlays create virtually any look, including flagstone, slate, travertine or tiles with the durability and easy maintenance of concrete. Granicrete Hawaii’s polymer-modified concrete overlays are applied just 1/8-inch thick over existing concrete and have proven to be stronger than concrete and endure for decades. Overlays are suitable for uneven surfaces, steps and heavy-traffic areas. Customized textures provide the look, comfort and/or slip-resistance required. They also are excellent for resurfacing driveways, pool decks, patios, walkways, kitchens, living spaces, bathrooms and vertical surfaces, creating custom barbecues, bars, fireplaces, walls and backsplashes.

The company offers unlimited design, color and texture possibilities that allow customers to design a custom look tailored to

their needs and budget. Choose from pictures on the Granicrete Hawaii website and samples in the company’s showroom, or design a one-of-a-kind look. Create your backyard oasis with 10 percent off lanai flooring through Aug. 31.

Granicrete Hawaii is moving to a new location at 525 Kokea St. Unit C7 effective July 1. Visit the showroom Monday through Friday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. to see a variety of flooring and countertop samples. Product information and pictures are available at www.GranicreteHawaii.com. The company also offers DIY (do it yourself) classes for homeowners every second Saturday of the month. Learn to install your own decorative concrete flooring and countertop overlays in the handson, informative, one-day class.

Visit the website for more information and registration forms, or call 626-5418.

After

FREE ESTIMATES Quality Work, Competitive Prices

Residential Apartment New Construction Interior/Exterior State Contractor’s License # C-30546

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S. TANAKA CONSTRUCTION Home Design • Free Consultations 1349 Mookaula St. • 848-5010 • Bonded & Insured Lic. #BC29857

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on first 10 callers

18 | HAWAII RENOVATION | JUNE 24, 2012

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Home furnishings that will stand the test of time

hopping for home furnishings and accessories can be a rewarding experience, but it also can drain your wallet. So when it’s time to find just the right items to furnish or brighten up your home, you want to get it right the first time, because most of us don’t have the luxury to toss out all our purchases in a couple of years and start from scratch. So how do you know if that couch or lamp is going to stand the test of time?

“Look for something that is built well, like good-quality tables that are a little bit older and not massmanufactured,” said Claren Pappo, an interior design instructor at The Illinois Institute of Art-Tinley Park.

Depending on your decor, antiques

S

expensive to replace. But when it comes to lighting, you may want to splurge on something that is both functional and decorative. “Invest in great lamps; they can stand the test of time,” said Pappo.

Artwork can really make your home fit your personality, and if you buy something you really like, you’ll only grow to appreciate it more over time. “Artwork has great bang for the buck,” said Carter. “Go to your local art district or art walk, find an artist you really like and buy their piece.”

When picking out drapes or pillows, stick with good-quality fabrics like silk or chenille, advised Kohl.

Leather furniture also will stand the test of time. But don’t go for artificial leather. “It will look worse, year after year,” she said.

Finally, Pappo recommended considering how often you’ll be moving around. “Think about the flexibility of your furniture and whether the pieces you’ve chosen will work in another home with a different floor plan.”

may be your best bet.

You’ve probably looked at a few decorating magazines and seen your share of furniture showrooms.

That may give you a starting point. “But you need to figure out what you like,” advised Heather Carter, academic director of Interior Design at The Art Institutes International-Kansas City.

“Think about the connection your home has to you, don’t just follow trends.”

Color also is important when thinking about the longevity of your future.

“Big furniture pieces like sofas and side chairs need to be in a neutral color scheme,” recommended Daniela Kohl, interior design program coordinator at The Art Institute of Indianapolis. You don’t want bright colors that you tire of quickly or can fall out of fashion.

Accessories, like throw pillows, can be trendier with the latest colors because they are much easier and less

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BIG ROCK Visit the store! Hawaii’s best source for Garden goodies and Stone veneer!

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JUNE 24, 2012 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 19

BONTERRASOLAR Bonterra Solar PV installation

f you’re planning to “go solar,” go with Bonterra Solar, one of Hawaii’s fastest-growing solar energy companies. Bonterra thinks many homeowners are ready to catch the wave — the heat wave — of energy savings they’ll enjoy after they have a state-of-the-art solar photovoltaic (PV) system installed.

“Solar energy systems have been around for years, but only now are so many Island homeowners realizing that clean, green, affordable solar energy isn’t an ‘extra’ for today’s homes, it’s essential,” said Andrew Yani, Bonterra Solar’s founder and principal. “There are a lot of solar companies in the market, so it’s important that homeowners understand the differences when it comes to choosing a solar installer.”

For Yani, the key to selecting the right solar company is simple: quality.

In Hawaii’s highly competitive, rapidly growing solar power industry, Bonterra Solar has been a rising star. Since it was founded in 2009, Bonterra Solar has achieved more than $6.5 million in sales. That only

I

20 | HAWAII RENOVATION | JUNE 24, 2012

Kaupuni Village

BONTERRA SOLAR 4218 Waialae Ave. #A203 548-7657(SOLR) www.bonterrasolar.com

could have happened because Bonterra was doing something right. And that something, according to Yani, is using quality materials, ensuring quality installation and providing quality post-installation support with unmatched warranties and system monitoring.

“We use top-quality materials right down to the bolts,” Yani said. “Bonterra was the first certified SolarWorld installer in Hawaii. We exclusively use Solar-World PV panels, and we have since day one.”

SolarWorld, based in Hillsboro, Oregon, has been the largest solar manufacturer in the U.S. for the past 35 years, and it produces advanced American-made solar panels and systems in its four production plants on a 97-acre campus. SolarWorld provides a 25-year “power production” guarantee and product warranty. That’s backed up by Bonterra’s 10year workmanship warranty, Yani said.

There is no typical solar system for any home. “We specialize in custom, expandable systems,” he said. “From the solar panels to the racking systems securing the panels, to the micro-inverters — which convert the “DC” electricity generated by the panels to the “AC” current used in homes — right down to the aluminum flashing used to keep water from seeping inside your attic … the system is designed to suit your particular house and your specific energy needs,” Yani said.

If you are going solar with Bonterra, you also can expect to get your system up and running with a variety of financing options. You can get the entire system installed with a nomoney-down payment plan. Or you can get a “Clean Loan” from American Savings Bank, which has qualified Bonterra for its “Clean Loans” list.

Going solar with Bonterra also means you are going with a com-

Habitat for Humanity

pany that has a track record of quality installations, large and small.

Along with serving individual homeowners, Bonterra works with major Island developers.

Bonterra installed solar systems for 19 homes in the Kaupuni Village development in Waianae, a Hawaiian Home Lands project that was the first “net-zero” sustainable community in the entire country.

Bonterra is the exclusive PV systems subcontractor for Gentry Homes and also installs solar systems for Graham Builders, which has been building homes in Hawaii since 1990.

Along with quality installation, warranties, financing and the use of top-notch materials, an-other reason to go with Bonterra when you go solar is because you’ll be going with a local company with a heart.

Bonterra not only installed the solar systems in Kaupuni

Village, but it continued to work closely with homeowners to help them learn to maintain energy-efficient homes.

Bonterra also works with Honolulu Habitat for Humanity, the nonprofit that builds simple, affordable homes for those in need. Bonterra installs a free solar hot-water system for each new Habitat house.

Yani, who was recently elected vice president of the Hawaii Solar Energy Association (HSEA) board of directors, is proud of Hawaii’s solar industry and its members.

Not surprisingly, however, when pushed to pick the top solar company in town, he said, “If you’re going to go solar, go with Bonterra.”

Bonterra Solar is located at 4218 Waialae Ave. #A203 in Honolulu. For more information, visit www.bonterrasolar.com or call 548-7657(SOLR).

AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT PUBLISHED BY OAHU PUBLICATIONS, INC. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED