Hawaii Renovation 17 April 2011

HAWAII

APRIL 17, 2011

Simply Golden Hawaii’s largest inventory of solid wood kitchen and bath cabinetry can be found at Golden Cabinets.

See page 3 INSIDE: BIG DESIGNS FOR LITTLE KITCHENS • TIPS FOR TACKLING HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT PUBLISHED BY OAHU PUBLICATIONS, INC.

Serving Hawaii Since 1981

Kokua for Japan Hawaii Home Expo will donate 10% of profit on all TOTO products for the month of April to American Red Cross to aid Japan in their recent earthquake and tsunami relief efforts. In addition, we will offer a 15% discount on in stock TOTO products, excluding Washlets and Neorests.

Safety Tubs, Sauna, Photovoltaic Solar Panels, Pre-Fab Countertops, Slabs, Marble, Granite, Sealants. LED Lighting

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Cooking up

big design ideas for little kitchens W

hen it comes to kitchens, bigger isn’t necessarily better. A properly designed small kitchen can be just as functional and stylish as a larger one.

I proved this during a recent kitchen facelift for clients Evelyn and Armel. The couple had a tiny 1960s kitchen that had seen better days. Besides being cramped, its dingy linoleum, archaic appliances and lack of storage made it a recipe for disaster.

With a baby on the way, and a thousand things to do, the couple didn’t have the energy to fix things themselves. So, with dozens of delectable design ideas simmering in my brain, I geared up to create a little kitchen that was big on flavor.

Working with a small space can be a huge challenge for a designer. And this particular job was extra tricky because I couldn’t knock down any walls. This meant I had to rely on color, texture and storage to make the room seem larger.

The L-shaped room consisted of a tiny galley kitchen and a small eating area.

Since nothing was working in either area, I kicked things off by getting rid of everything — appliances, countertops, sinks — you name it. The only thing left intact was the wood cabinetry.

I then decided on color — a big factor in making a space look larger. I wanted to keep the room light and airy, and keep the contrast low between the cabinets and the floor. I bathed the walls in a wispy gray, gave the cabinets a fresh coat of white paint and put down gray- and linen-col-

ored floor tiles in a diagonal checkerboard pattern to give the illusion of space.

Along one of the galley walls, I installed a new stainless-steel stove with a matching microwave/hood vent above it. I then brought in new white cabinetry that perfectly matches the old and extended the run of cabinets into the eating area.

Into this storage mix, I added two mirrored-back display units that contain glass shelves and under-cabinet lighting. That’s one of my oldest tricks: taking ordinary cabinets, removing the doors and backing them with mirror to give the illusion of depth.

On the opposite galley wall, I worked in

a deep stainless-steel fridge, a double sink and a built-in dishwasher. I then gave both walls a delicious new bead-board backsplash and installed fresh, light quartz countertops.

I wanted to make the eating area a light, bright space so I positioned an L-shaped banquette by the room’s one window and topped it with a brown-gray bench with a tufted backrest.

By maximizing the space and properly implementing color, texture and storage, I proved that it’s not the size of the kitchen that matters — it’s what you do with it.

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

the Hawaiian Islands Since 2003 Serving

HOMEOWNERS

Bring in: • Driveway size (in square feet) • Pictures

We’ll help you with what to buy and teach you how to install all products.

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Largest Inventory in the State, Hard-Wood Doors w/Plywood Boxes, Multi Colors to Choose. Reasonable Prices!

9 DIFFERENT IN-STOCK CABINET FINISHES

(Airport - across Lagoon Drive) (Downtown - behind Costco gas station) 2959 Koapaka St. • Honolulu, HI 96819 500 Alakawa St. #106 • Honolulu, HI 96817 Ph: 836-8181 • Fax: 836-8166 Ph: 853-2088 • Fax: 853-2058 www.gcgchi.com AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT PUBLISHED BY OAHU PUBLICATIONS, INC. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

T

he highest quality hardwood cabinets — solid cherry wood, maple and oak — are always available and affordably priced at Golden Cabinets, home of Hawaii’s largest inventory of fine solid wood kitchen and bath cabinetry.

Wide selections of finely crafted designs, styles and finishes are featured at the two Golden Cabinets Inc. showrooms, located at 500 Alakawa St. and 2959 Koapaka St. Cabinets, shelves, moldings and drawers are all available in rich cherry wood, warm maple, classic oak and white finishes. No particle board, plastic or laminates are incorporated into these solidly built natural wood products. All are fitted with handsome, heavyduty, stainless steel fixtures and precision hinges.

The cabinet doors come in a variety of styles, including solid wood and wood with framed glass insets to show off your fine crystal and dinnerware. There is also a choice of glass panels — clear, frosted and etched. A variety of designs to accommodate all kitchen layouts, such as corner cabinets with fold-out doors and lazy susans, and cabinets with roll-out shelves, plus vanities and vanity accessories for the bath, can be viewed in the showrooms.

HAWAIIRENOVATION

The

Golden Age

GOLDEN

CABINETS “Cabinets are the first thing you see when you walk into a kitchen, so whether you are building new or remodeling, you want to be sure you are making the right choice,” said Golden Cabinets owner Wen Wen Cao. “And there’s no long wait between ordering and installation. One week after you place your order, the cabinets of your choice will be delivered or can be picked up by your contractor.

“We also offer free assembly and design services ... just provide the rough dimensions of the room and we can lay out a cabinet design and configuration for you on the computer in a matter of minutes. Then, if you approve of the basic layout and estimate, we will go to the job site and make the final measurements.

“Because we specialize in cabinets, we have the expertise to help you create a more beautiful and functional kitchen ... at a price you can afford.”

For information and directions to the showrooms, which are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Saturday, call Golden Cabinets at 836-8181 (Koapaka) or 8532088 (Alakawa).

APRIL 17, 2011 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 3

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Tiny tweaks yield

big results

in bathroom remodeling

B

ored with your bath?

While remodeling high-profile items, such as flooring, a vanity and the tub/shower, will make a big visual update, these projects also come with a hefty budget. And, if you’re like most homeowners, you may not have the time, knowledge or budget for a major overhaul.

Luckily, in a small space, “remodeling lite,” or making tiny tweaks, can make a big difference in the style and functionality of your bath. Here are a few ideas that anyone can do within a few hours (or even minutes) — and with minimal budget — that will make the space more

usable and stylish.

Unique accessories If your bathroom is like most, you have builderbasic, chrome towel bars.

To start your update, add new accessories.

“For less than $100 and an hour’s time, you can refresh your bath with new accessories,” says Tim Bitterman, group marketing manager at Creative Specialties International, the bath accessories division of Moen. “And, today’s accessories add flair to function — allowing you to also alleviate some of the most common bathroom pet peeves while you're remodeling.”

Not replacing the toilet paper is the No. 1 pet peeve among men and women, according to a poll conducted by Moen. Why not make everyone happy in the bath by eliminating this pet peeve with Moen’s pivoting paper holder?

This innovative, “why didn’t anyone think of this before” holder enables users to change the roll by simply lifting the bar — no unwieldy spring needed.

And if you’re seeking a specific style, look no further than the Bradshaw, Vale or Iso collections to coordinate with your decor.

SAVE $$ BY REFACING

Mirror makeover Mirrors tend to take up

the majority of real estate in the bathroom, yet they’re often unattractive and plain.

Uniquely shaped, decorative mirrors are an ideal solution.

However they may involve a bit of wall touch-

up from the removal of your current mirror.

Another option is to add a decorative frame around your current plate-glass mirror. You can measure and create a frame yourself, or simply purchase a

kit, such as Mirrorscapes Mirror Frames. This unique system, which is available in five different styles and a variety of metallic and wood-tone finishes, features a SEE PAGE 13

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4 | HAWAII RENOVATION | APRIL 17, 2011

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

HAWAIIRENOVATION BIA-Hawaii Remodelers

BY KAREN NAKAMURA

You’ve made the decision to finally remodel the outdated kitchen and living room of your home. But if you live in a house built before 1978, a new federal law regulating the removal of lead paint will affect your home remodeling project.

In 1978, the use of lead paint was officially banned from residential construction. Before that, however, lead paint was used in more than 38 million homes, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Today, contractors hired to do renovation, repair and painting projects that will

Update Your Home Safely with a Lead-Safe Certified Renovator involve at least 6 square feet of lead-based paint in homes built before 1978 must be EPA Lead-Safe certified and must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination.

practices rather than try to do the work yourself. Not only that, but it’s the law: Contractors working in pre-1978 homes must be lead-paint certified and must follow these lead-safe practices whether or not The Dangers of Lead there are children in the Paint home — unless the homeFor young children, lead owner can certify that the poisoning can cause learn- house is lead-paint free. ing disabilities, hearing loss What are Lead-Safe and behavior problems. In adults, lead poisoning can Work Practices? lead to hypertension and The EPA has a free high blood pressure. brochure on its website Pregnant women run the (www.leadfreekids.org) risk of passing the poison called “Renovate Right” on to their unborn child. that provides guidance to It is important that you homeowners and contracfind a remodeler who is tors about remodeling safetrained in lead-safe work ly to minimize lead dust

exposure. EPA Lead-Safe Certified Renovators have been equipped to use lead test kits, educate consumers about the dangers of lead, and use prescribed lead-safe work practices.

Your certified contractor should also give you a brochure to familiarize you with specific work practices, including these procedures: 1. Containing the work area so that dust and debris do not escape. Warning signs will be posted to keep visitors away from the area, and heavy-duty plastic and tape are used to seal off doors and heating and cooling system vents and to

cover the floors and any furniture that cannot be moved.

2.

Minimizing dust. There is no way to eliminate it, but some paint removal methods create less dust than others.

3. Cleaning up thoroughly. When all the work is done, and before taking down any plastic that isolates the work area from the rest of the home, the area will be cleaned with a HEPA vacuum to remove dust and debris on all surfaces, followed by wet mopping with plenty of water.

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To find a Lead-Safe Certified Renovator or firm near you, visit www.epa. gov/lead.

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

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hether you’re looking to replace, upgrade or add a new garage door, fence or gate to your home, choose Raynor Overhead Doors. From modern styles to classic facades, Raynor StyleView aluminum or BuildMark steel pan and insulated garage doors are the choice for achieving a contemporary look or accentuating the design of an older residence. Our gates and fences are not only stylish, they come equipped with heavy-duty commercial-grade hardware, offering the perfect combination of beauty and reliability.

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APRIL 17, 2011 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 5

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Why you should

Sometimes Bigger is Not Better

GO

RENT OR OWN Toro builds innovative, rugged, and dependable machines like the hard-working Dingo and you put them to good use.

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I

f you have a dripping faucet or are experiencing long delays for hot water while showering, chances are you have a limescale problem.

Or as Harald von Sydow, director of Nano Tek-On, the authorized distributor of HydroFlow, puts it, “You could be wasting money and water without even knowing it.”

Scaling, also referred to as limescale, is an accumulation of mineral deposits and corrosion in pipes and water-using appliances. Left unchecked, these deposits reduce the efficiency and lifespan of solar and electric water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines, pool filters, ponds and spas.

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

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HydroFlow technology prevents mineral build-up and, in most cases, breaks down 95 percent of existing deposits within three months by emitting randomly varying radio fields throughout the system. The radio current “suspends” the minerals in the water, so they simply wash away.

When used for salt and fresh-water pools and spas, HydroFlow reduces bacteria and algae, so they require approximately 60 percent less chlorine, resulting in improved water clarity and less chlorine smell.

“Hawaii homeowners insist on environmentally safe solutions,” says von Sydow. “HydroFlow doesn’t

use chemicals, so the water retains its natural taste and is safe to drink.”

For commercial operations, HydroFlow increases the efficiency of pool filters, spas, steam rooms, cooling systems and restaurant dishwashers.

One HydroFlow unit can protect an entire home, is safe for all pipes, and can be installed by a homeowner in a matter of minutes without cutting the pipework. Nano Tek-On specializes in environmentally friendly surface treatments including sealants for glass and natural stone, antimicrobial coatings and self-cleaning surfaces.

Call 395-2996 or visit www.nanotekonhi.com.

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

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Transform Your Space withDecorative Concrete Overlays C

reate a stunning new space with Granicrete Hawaii’s concrete flooring overlays, which are becoming increasinglypopular because of their unmatched versatility and affordability.

Resurface driveways, pool decks, patios, walkways, kitchens, living spaces and bathrooms. It’s also excellent on vertical surfaces, creating custom bars, barbecues, fireplaces, walls and backsplashes.

Granicrete flooring is designed to resurface, rather than replace concrete, tile and wood.

Installers clean and prepare the surfaces, allowing the base layer to adhere to them, leaving no air gap, and preventing peeling

GRANICRETE

crete finishes or natural and pressure wash with stone looks like flag- low PSI (on exterior Re-sealing stone, slate and traver- flooring). and lifting. The Granicrete tine are achieved at a about every 2 years mainproduct line is used from fraction of the cost. tains the integrity of the start to finish; formulated Granicrete flooring is color and finish. to endure the wear of easy to maintain as sealGranicrete International high-traffic areas, all types ers resist stains and mois- was founded in April 2006 of weather, and tested to ture. Simply sweep, mop and has grown to become perform with about three times the strength of concrete.

Unlimited design, color and texture possibilities allow customers to design a custom look, tailored to suit their needs and budget.

Certified installers carefully craft flooring overHawaii’s Asphalt Paving Contractor lays, applying a polymermodified concrete at about 1/8- and 1/4-inch thickness and coloring by hand. Stained con-

the nation’s largest decorative finishes network.

Granicrete Hawaii distributes the Granicrete product line in Hawaii and offers training to certify professionals and do-ityourselfers to install Granicrete systems.

Visit the Granicrete Hawaii showroom at 941388 Moaniani St., #302 in the Waipio Business Center or GranicreteHawaii.com for more information about products and classes. Call 626-5418 to schedule your free estimate.

Best Prices Guaranteed With Installation of the Same Equipment 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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APRIL 17, 2011 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 7

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Seminars Offer

Building Tips U

pdating your home or building a new one is about to get a whole lot easier.

Oahu homeowners and landlords can get answers to all of their renovation questions at either of two “Building to Your Lifestyle” seminars being presented

by HK Construction.

“These informative seminars are free, fun and open to the public,” says company vice president Alan Twu. “If you’re thinking of

HK

CONSTRUCTION

building or remodeling for the first time, this seminar will help you understand the process a homeowner will go through from start to finish.”

The “Building to Your Lifestyle” seminars will take place this week at Pearl Country Club — Thursday, April 21 from 6 to 8 p.m., and at Ward

Warehouse Friday, April 22 from 6 to 8 p.m.

A bank representative will be on hand to give options and answer any financing questions.

“Most of all, we get people one step closer to having the home they’ve always dreamed of for their family,” says Twu. At the end of the seminar, participants will be invited to meet one-on-one with HK Construction design consultants for advice.

“HK Construction is a kamaaina company that has built hundreds of quality homes and home improvements throughout Oahu,” says Twu. “We have more than 35 years of experience in the construction industry. Our staff offers a full range of services with the

knowledge and designing capabilities to build to your unique lifestyle.”

“As a local company, we want to give our clients a “One-stop Shop” that you don’t often see anymore because many companies become very specialized,” Micah Keoho says. “We are able to offer a wide array of services, and are able to control costs and offer better quality because we keep it in-house.”

“Although some contractors dread the thought of warranties, I can tell you

with full confidence that HK Construction is not afraid of warranties. We back our work 100 percent and are not happy until our customers are happy,” says Twu, who represents the fourth generation of builders in his family.

HK Construction tackles projects ranging from new home construction and major additions to complete interior renovations.

Team members guide and inspire homeowners throughout the design and building process.

“They were very professional and efficient in providing their services, and were very knowledgeable as well as friendly, which made me very comfortable with them,” says Cynthia Lai, a recent customer. “I would highly recommend them to anyone who needs work done to their homes.”

For a free estimate or to reserve a spot at this week’s free “Build to Your Lifestyle” seminars, call 753-5643. Or, to learn more about the company, log on to www.hkchawaii.com.

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

HAWAIIRENOVATION

An openand shut case for new garage doors SERVCO RAYNOR OVERHEAD DOORS

H

omeowners have known for years that remodeling a kitchen or bathroom can recoup as much or more than the cost of the job.

Recent studies in Honolulu have shown that replacement of an old and worn garage door can recoup the homeowner between 120 percent and 180 percent of the job cost, depending on the quality and features of the garage door. This is due to the enhanced curb appeal of the property with a new

and attractive garage door.

The garage door is the largest moving part of the house and for most properties is the first or second part of the house one sees from the street.

Garage doors are available in galvanized steel, vinyl, fiberglass, aluminum and wood. Most doors are available one-sided, insulated and two-sided with insulation. Even a modest new one-sided garage door will allow the homeowner to recoup well above the door

cost in added resale value to the house. Higher-priced specialty aluminum and wood doors will add a modest amount to the house value above the cost of the door and well in excess of the cost recouped by other home renovation projects.

Servco Raynor offers a wide variety of door styles and sizes in all materials.

Wood door construction for

the Arbor Shore product line utilizes vertical grain lumber, fully matured Alaskan Western Red Cedar, and uniform wood-tone consistency, all with lead times as short as four weeks. No other manufacturer can deliver this level of quality like Raynor can.

ArborShore offers a wide variety of options in both Swing-Out and Bi-Fold

After

All Island Bath Call for a Free Estimate

Free Seminar Sat., April 23

Call: 593-2808

9-11 A.M. Honolulu Country Club

or register online at: www.grahambuilders.com

ators and accessories are available for all of these doors, including battery back-up.

All Raynor garage doors are installed and serviced by experienced and qualified Servco Raynor technicians.

Visit Servco Raynor Overhead Doors’ showroom at 2841 Pukoloa St. in Mapunapuna or visit the company online at www.servcoraynor.com. The showroom is open Monday through Friday 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m.

– 3 p.m. by appointment.

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designs, as well as several hardware and glass options.

The ArborShore door sections are warranted for five years to the original purchaser. Doors ordered with the Deluxe Stain Option, featuring a second clear top coat, receive an additional year, for a total of six years.

Eight different stain options are available.

All other Servco Raynor doors have limited lifetime warranties for as long as the original purchaser owns the home. A wide variety of oper-

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APRIL 17, 2011 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 9

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Restore, Revitalize and Maintain

I

t’s always a wonderful feeling to renovate and install something brand new.

There’s a sense of accomplishment and an appreciation of aesthetics and beauty that comes along with completing a job that you’ve always wanted done.

Sometimes, however, there may not actually be anything really wrong with your home. Sometimes your kitchen counter tops, your shower surround, or your stone floors are perfectly fine, but over the years they just don’t look the same.

Without proper maintenance, the most beautiful tiles or stone starts to feel drab as dirt and grime penetrate into improperly sealed materials or the grout lines darken through years of accumulated dust. In some cases

HAWAII HOME EXPO

people have to deal with efflorescence coming up through the bottom of the stone.

One of the specialties at Hawaii Home Expo is to refresh your home, to get your beautiful stone clean to the point where you can be proud of it again. Our teams of Dry Treat Accredited Applicators are trained to use our alkali cleaners in conjunction

with a high-pressure vaporizer to take back the look that time has eroded.

And for the grout lines that are beyond even our ability to restore, the penetrating grout color system can breathe life back into any tarnished floor or counter. Lastly, the applicators will seal everything properly backed by a 15-year Dry Treat manufacturer’s warranty. The molecules in the sealant bond permanently in the pores of any stone, tile or grout to prevent problems with efflorescence and to stop mold and dirt from penetrating your restored home. You can take back the beauty and luster of your home that time has tried to take away and we can help.

Call Hawaii Home Expo at 695EXPO or visit the company showroom at 2933 Koapaka St. in Honolulu.

Support a cleaner future for Hawaii Earth Day is a time for us to reflect on the state of our environment and to raise awareness on ways we can create a sustainable future for our world.

RevoluSun is committed to spreading the value of solar power and bringing a cleaner, smarter energy solution to our communities, one rooftop at a time.

Please visit us at the following Earth Day events to learn more.

Hawaii Clean Energy Day April 20 | 9am – 2pm Hawaii State Capitol

Earth Day 2011 April 21 | 10 am – 5pm University of Hawaii at Manoa

Save $25 - $300 per unit on select Hunter Douglas window fashions.

Hunter Douglas offers an array of attractive colors, fabrics and styles for creating inviting living spaces. With their enduring craftsmanship and energy-efficient designs, they present exceptional value - smart style that’s energy smart, too. And, now you can enjoy smart savings from January 14 through April 29, 2011 with mail-in rebates on select styles. Ask us for details.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION Photo courtesy of Phujimoto Photography

Cutting-edge rain screens give homes sleek, contemporary look GRAHAM G raham Builders, Hawaii’s premier design and build firm, has seen many trends in the home building industry throughout its 20-year history. One recent design trend, in fact, is utilizing rain screens — a system for installing a wide variety of exterior siding materials that creates airspace between the siding and the exterior surface of the wall frame.

Rain screens perform double duty as a contemporary design element and provide a sleek, modern look to Hawaii homes, as well as enhance the comfort and longevity of the home.

“One exciting development we’re seeing at Graham Builders is installing exterior sidings such as rain screens, which gives our designers more

BUILDERS

versatility in how standard materials can be applied to a home’s exterior wall,” said Evan Fujimoto, Graham Builders president. “Whether we’re using traditional wood sidings, products such as Hardiplank, Hardipanel or other phenolic or aluminum wall-cladding systems, this installation method liberates our designers to create innovative patterns and shapes.

Essentially, siding elements are attached to vertical or horizontal battens with a quarterinch or wider gaps between each piece of siding material.

The entire siding assembly is separated from the exterior wall a minimum of three-quarter inches, which allows the wall to breathe according to Fujimoto.

“You will start to see more use of these systems in both commercial and residential projects here in Hawaii. From a commercial perspective, you can see such a system at the Honolulu Design Center building,” he said. “Its metallic orange and silver panels are actually a rain screen which provides protection from the rain and sun in a strikingly modern grid pattern.”

There are several benefits to using this type of system. First, the gap between the siding and the wall prevents moisture and

mold accumulation within wall cavities or between wall layers.

Constant airflow behind the siding and wall helps to dry out moisture that would ordinarily become trapped and begin deteriorating the wall’s components. Second, the air gap minimizes heat transfer from the siding to wall and into the home’s interior.

Third, rain screen systems provide Graham Builders designers with a fresh approach to enliven the exterior elevations of homes — a way of achieving a modern aesthetic as an alternative to sidings installed the traditional way. Walls with a variety of grid patterns or tightly spaced SEE PAGE 15

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

A ‘Bekin’of hope for

kitchen

remodelers W

ith so many cabinet companies to choose from, why not go with the company that offers you the widest selection of instock cabinets and the most competitive prices out there?

Bekin Cabinets now offers eight different cabinet lines with a wide variety of features, ranging from the dark espresso, rich dark cherry, to premium grade American oak and the golden vibrant tones of Canadian Maple.

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“As of April, we expanded our warehouse and showroom by 50 percent. We are investing more to strengthen our signature Bekin One Stop Service,” Chen says.

“Ultimately, my goal is no different than your goal — One-Stop Service and helping you to save money without sacrificing style and quality.”

Visit the company’s showroom at 565 Kokea St. #G6. For more information, call 843-2284.

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“I want to thank all my customers for their loyalty. Because of them, most of my new business comes from referrals,” says Josh Chen, kitchen designer for Bekin Cabinets. “We have more and more projects that are recognized by the kitchen and bath industry, as well as the community.”

A one-stop shop for kitchen and bath remodeling needs, Bekin has provided products and services to more than 600 families over the past three years.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

Add a splash of green to the scene

FROM PAGE 4

unique installation system that is quick, easy and secure, even for a novice do-it-yourselfer.

Simplify storage The bathroom is host to many activities — which means it also needs to store a lot of “stuff.�

Adding simple storage solutions, such as hooks,

shelves and decorative jars, can add some sanity and style to your bath, and luckily many solutions are extremely inexpensive.

Both men and women ranked leaving clothes or towels on the floor as their second biggest pet peeve in the Moen survey, and this percentage increases when the bathroom is also shared with children.

Hooks are an ideal solution to keep items, from towels to robes, close at hand, yet off the floor.

Most accessory collections offer matching robe hooks — or for a tool-free installation, try a new towel bar or shower rod hook, an Sshaped hook that fits right onto your current towel bar or shower rod.

And, since 20 percent of

men think that leaving toiletries on the counter is an annoyance, adding a shelf near the sink can be helpful to keep the vanity neat and clean. To also maintain a stylish look, use decorative jars on the shelf to conceal items ranging from cotton balls to toothbrushes.

Green with envy When tackling your remodeling project, follow the lead of the experts at the National Kitchen and Bath Association. Their most recent report states that green tones are the hottest new trend, increasing in popularity from 14 to 24 percent of bathroom remodels in the last year.

So, whether you add a splash of green to your walls or a hint with bath towels — your new stylish bath will surely be the envy of your guests.

With minimal investment — both time and money — you’ll have a bath with maximum style and functionality. For more information, visit moen.com.

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APRIL 17, 2011 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 13

HAWAIIRENOVATION • Update your tool box.

We create more work for ourselves by not investing in quality tools that address multiple project needs. The right tool can give you professionallooking results while dramatically reducing frustration. The new RotoZip ZipSaw is outfitted to handle applications in a variety of materials, including tile, wood and metal. From installing new flooring to removing old bathroom grout, this powerful cutting tool combines the best features of angle grinders and jamb saws to tackle straight, curved, notched and flush cuts with ease.

Tips for tackling home improvement projects with ease

I

t’s that time of year when homeowners look around their property and start mentally creating a list of to-do projects. Sometimes these projects are minor, like changing out accents in the bathroom.

Other times the project can end up being a complete remodel that requires the right tools and strategy.

If you’ve taken that brave step to committing yourself to a home improvement project, congratulations — you’ve won half the battle. The next hurdle to overcome is successfully preparing yourself for the task at hand. Minor adjustments can save you time and money down the road so it’s important that

you do your homework in advance. Before getting started, consider the tips below. These handy hints can help you maximize project results and avoid unnecessary stress.

• Prioritize. Put simply, don’t bite off more than you can chew. When taking on home projects, remember to consider quality over quantity. There is no sense in rushing through one project just to cross it off the list. Decide what upgrades

are most important and pay them their due diligence.

Identify what requires your immediate attention, and what can wait. More importantly, recognize when you're in over your head and don’t be afraid to enlist professional help.

• Plan a budget.

Identify how much you’re able to spend and stick to it. No sense in taking on debt or refinancing your home just to keep up with the Joneses. If you can’t afford the kitchen remodel this year, consider investing in smaller updates that won't go unnoticed. You’d be surprised how updated appliances

or a simple paint job can add new life to your home. There is always the risk of unforeseen costs; research common project pitfalls and try to eliminate those possibilities. Don’t forget to incorporate the cost of tools if you're not hiring help.

• Set regular goals. The home improvement process can be overwhelming, so it’s important to set goals for each portion of the project.

These ongoing check points are rewarding and can help motivate you to keep going.

Remember to use these intervals to take a break and clear your head. The time off allows you to come at the next step fresh, ultimately minimizing fatigue and frustration. Regular breaks also enable you to monitor your project supplies and stock up as needed.

Don’t let project logistics intimidate you to push off home updates yet another season. Home improvement is a marathon, not a sprint. Take your time and trust that the end result will be well-worth your effort. With the right tools and proper preparation, you can avoid costly mistakes and tackle that to-do list like a pro.

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

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Keep the world

beautifulwith

slight lifestyle adjustments

A

s the negative effects of human impact on the environment become more evident, a strong push toward global conservation continues to grow and gather steam. Scores of corporations have committed to becoming more "green" in recent years, and countless environmentfocused initiatives and organizations have popped up around the world. But even on an individual level, some small changes to your lifestyle can make a big difference in pre-

serving the Earth for future generations.

Recycle Though the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been encouraging Americans to recycle for decades, a recent study found that less than 34 percent of the nation's waste was recovered or recycled in 2009, while 12 percent was burned at combustion facilities and the remaining 54 percent went to landfills. Recycling and composting saved 82 million

For instance, when painting your home, make sure to use a brand that offers a formula with little or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Pratt & Lambert RedSeal Zero paint offers optimal coverage and a professional finish in a zeroVOC base (some colors may not be zero-VOC after tinting with conventional colorants).

And with one of the largest color libraries in the industry, Pratt & Lambert will please both your inner designer and environmentalist.

tons of material from being dumped or burned in 2009, preserving the country's air and land immensely. To find out more about recycling, composting and how your family can help preserve the environment, visit www.epa.gov/epawaste.

Fume-free With vehicles constantly emitting harmful chemicals into the atmosphere, it is important to avoid products that put off hazardous components whenever possible. In some situations, this is simply a matter of choosing an environmentally responsible brand over another.

Boycott bottles.

Although plastic bottles are recyclable, more than 80 percent are thrown out, creating more than 1.5 million tons of

waste each year. Add this to the fact that tap water costs an estimated .002 cents per gallon while many Americans pay more than $1 per bottle, and bottled water is taking a huge toll on the U.S. landfills and wallets.

Purchase a water filter for your home and fill a reusable water bottle from the filtered tap; you'll be saving the environment as well as your bank account, and your taste buds won't know the difference.

By making small adjustments to your lifestyle, you can make a lasting impact on the environment and keep the world safe and beautiful for generations to come.

Granite Weekend seminar free WhenFREE you buy a set of Kitchen Cabinets

On select colors, While supplies last

FROM PAGE 11

horizontal or vertical battens in a wide array of sizes, patterns and colors opens up a whole new universe of ideas.

“Graham Builders is currently designing this system for a new home in Waimanalo,” said Fujimoto.

“Standard four-by-eight Hardipanel siding will be oriented horizontally and affixed to vertical battens that are attached to the exterior wall frame. Two-bythree horizontal wood battens will be installed in rows every 12 inches on the outer surface of the siding, giving this home a dramatic exterior wall elevation. It’s a contemporary play on the traditional vertical board and batten siding you typically see in plantation-style homes. The design looks beautiful and it will keep the house cooler installed as a rain screen system.”

For those interested in learning more about the rain screen siding system, Graham Builders will host its “Building Your Home For Life” seminar Saturday, April 23, from 9 to 11 a.m. at Honolulu Country Club.

The seminar is free, but reservations are required.

For a full list of 2011 seminars or to register, visit www.grahambuilders.com.

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2815 Kaihikapu Street Honolulu, HI 96819 Ph: 808.833.8338 Fax: 808.833.8339 APRIL 17, 2011 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 15

BACKPAGECOVERSTORY

Getting

Plugged In You, too, can have a quality bathroom upgrade/remodel, a tub-to-shower conversion, and even a new kitchen for less than you think

T

he secret to costeffective kitchen and bath improvements, according to Gerald Peters, general manager of HPS Construction Services, is to reject notions that you have to move drains and other plumbing or electrical wiring to accomplish such tasks. Neither do you have to suffer through drafting/plans and permit time and engineering review agony and frustration, he adds, to get a really nice-looking, modern and functional kitchen and bath — and all at a low price.

Peters says depending on the level of change, and whether there is current water or other damage, these upgrades can be had for $3,500$8,500 for baths, including tub-to-shower conversions. The “plug-in” approach, Peters adds, also is perfect to save big on kitchen remodels. He says that the $9,000-$15,000 price range for kitchens can save you up to 40 percent over the old approach of tear-it-outand-start-anew.

There are many rightoff-the-shelf available and cost-effective choices for tile, readymade vanities, countertops, faucets and shower fixtures, shower kits, medi-

HPS C O N S T R U C T I O N SERVICES

cine chests and framed mirrors, sliding and swing shower doors, handicap and assist grab bars, built-in soap and shampoo niches, towel bars and rings.

Furthermore, choosing the contractor who is open to helping you plan your budget and help you find and evaluate the finish-product choices, will result in getting the nicest fixtures at the right budget. For example, you don’t have to argue with your contractor about why they installed a $49 faucet, which looks crummy, when so many wonderful choices are available for under $100.

Also, a major area of concern on choosing the right bid, is to determine how detailed the proposal is, and whether it addresses potential unforeseen problems, such as termite and water damage.

Another warning on upgrades, remodels, repairs and bigger projects is to watch out for low-ball base pricing

16 | HAWAII RENOVATION | APRIL 17, 2011

to get you hooked, but then you get add-ons and more add-ons for things you thought were included, Peters says.

Unforeseen damage, clearly spelled out in advance, is a legitimate add-on, but only when it is really necessary. On the other hand, keep in mind that you, as a client, cannot add things in that weren’t discussed.

Peters says that assuming a handyman or so-called contractor (one without a license) knows everything about the project or jobs you have for them is a mistake. A state General Excise Tax license is not a contracting license, he adds.

Check and double check whom you choose to do business with. HPS offers licensed handyman services in addition to kitchen and bath upgrades and remodels.

The company also specializes in general contracting services, as well as hurricane protection for nearly 20 years.

An important thing

not to overlook is that as a large segment of the Hawaii population enters its golden years, one-bathroom homes should be converted to include a walk-in shower with assist bars on the walls, Peters says.

Taking out and replacing one of your tubs with a low or flat threshold walk-in shower is much more usable than ordering one of the so-called walk-in tubs, which usually cost more for the tub and shipping alone than the entire job to convert from tub-to-walkin shower. Furthermore, beyond unaffordable pricing, these tubs are extremely problematic relative to the swing-in hatches developing leaks.

You can install a builtin bench in the walk-in shower and also a convenient sliding, adjustable shower head.

This enables you to take comfortable, water-saving showers and save

thousands of gallons of water. Most important, the renovated shower is safer than a tub and roomier also. That’s because tubs have an inward slope that takes up space.

Opting to merely cut out a slice of your tub and use a shower curtain is a heartache waiting to happen. Not only do these showers look awful, but the open sections allow water to rot the floors, rust the tubs, or create large amounts of mold. But for a couple thousand dollars more, you can get it right and enhance your daily living experience and the resale value of your home or condo.

HPS and Peters can be reached at 847-4400 or by email at hpp@ aloha.net. The company also can be contacted online at hpsconstructionser vices.com and hurricaneprotect.com.

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