Hawaii Renovation 24 April 2011

HAWAII

APRIL 24, 2011

High on Hi-Power Hi-Power Solar has the materials and necessary know-how to meet your solar water heating and photovoltaic system needs.

See page 3 | Nathalie Walker photo Inside: HOW WATER ENERGIZES YOU AND YOUR ENVIRONMENT • CREATING A STYLISH OUTDOOR SPACE 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

Going with the Flow F

ountains are desirable in feng shui because they bring the energy of water into the environment in a beautiful and elegant way.

Water was important to farmers in ancient China because the success of their rice crops depended on having abundant water. Plentiful water resulted in plentiful rice, so over time water became associated with wealth and sustenance.

Moving water represents flow, good communication, cleansing and movement, whereas still water represents wisdom, calmness and spirituality. Choosing to place water strategically in the environment reminds us of these themes and prompts us to participate further in creating them.

such as the beach, the mountains, the countryside or waterfalls? That good feeling is because of negative ions that are naturally present in the outdoors.

Remember how it feels after a thunderstorm? That “clean” feeling is actually the effect of the release of a lot of negative ions.

Positive ions have the opposite effect — they cause us to feel tired, lethargic and fatigued.

Electronics such as computers and artificial lighting generate positive ions.

In this day and age, many of us find ourselves in front of a computer all day surrounded by artificial lighting. No wonder we are always so tired! These positive ions are suspended in the air, and the more we breathe them in, the more they affect us.

The effect of water Water and negative ions Have you ever noticed When water splashes, how good you feel after visiting places in nature, it releases negative ions

into the atmosphere, and these bond with any positive ions suspended there. The negative ions neutralize the heavy effect that the positive ions have on our mood and feelings. You experience this anytime you take a shower: you feel perked up and rejuvenated afterward, don’t you?

Your feeling of refreshment is a result of all the negative ions pairing up the energy of clarity, and with the positive ions. pictures of moving water such as waterfalls or the No desire for a fountain? ocean bring the energy of Photographs of water flow and movement into will stimulate your brain the environment. Choose and produce the same what you want to create energy, just in a different more of in your life and form. If the trickling use an image of water to sounds a fountain makes support you. do not resonate with you or if you have no time to Where to place a fountain maintain one and keep it The best placement for running, you can get the water is anywhere along same effect with a lot less the front wall or the left maintenance by using wall of your home, busiimages of water. ness, office or room Pictures of lakes or still (standing at the entrance, bodies of water represent

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more you resist life, the more challenges you will have. However, by placing a fountain with intent, it will help to subconsciously direct you Will a fountain bring me toward being in the flow and creating more of good luck?

The fountain itself will what you want in your bring you neither good life. luck nor bad luck. Your “luck” depends on how For more information synchronous and in tune on feng shui expert and you are with your per- life guide Alice Inoue, visit sonal flow of life. The www.aliceinoue.com. looking into the room).

Check that the direction of the water flow is pointed toward the center of the room.

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2 | HAWAII RENOVATION | APRIL 24, 2011

CALL 847-4400 AN ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT PUBLISHED BY OAHU PUBLICATIONS, INC. | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Powering Up with the

Right Solar Company

HI-POWER SOLAR

with the technology.

“Our No. 1 commitment is customer satisfaction,” Romero said. “And consequently, our best advertising over the years has always been word of mouth and referrals. When a new client contacts us, we are more than happy to provide them with references of customers who purchased a system from Hi-Power Solar.”

“Concern about the cost of energy has never been greater with high prices and impending shortages,” Adams added.

“Solar is a technology within reach of every homeowner, and it has never been more affordable. Rebates on solar water heating systems and state and federal tax credits for both solar water heating and photovoltaic systems are available.”

“Our policy at HiPower solar is to assess every customer individually to identify the type of system that best suits their lifestyle and budget,” Romero said.

“If your need is simply to heat water for the

home, we can give you a price for installation. For photovoltaics, we review your current electricity charges and provide a report on what you can save. The savings will be based on the system’s size and the current usage and electricity expenditures of the client.

“The upfront investment is, of course, more for a photovoltaic system than for a solar water heating system, but, over time, the investment is also recouped in savings.”

He pointed out that while the tax credits for installation of solar water heating systems are 30 percent federal and 35

Happy customer Gerald Blanchette, at left, greets Hi-Power Solar’s Matt Adams and Ron Romero. percent state up to $2,250 for solar hot water, the maximum for photovoltaic installations is $5,000 per system, per year.

“It’s actually possible to get your total monthly expenditure for electricity down to a minimum charge of approximately $18,” Romero said.

“I believe the main obstacle among consumers who have not made the move into solar

is confusion about the various types of systems out there today ... and there are many. The photovoltaic system we are currently installing is the most advanced with such features as a monitoring component that enables the home or business owner to go online to check the health, performance and efficiency of the system. We also are prepared to address

Nathalie Walker photos

Y

ou know it makes sense to take full advantage of all the benefits of solar power, but you’re not sure what type of system will work best for you — a solar water heating system, a photovoltaic system, or a combination of the two.

The decision isn’t hard to make when you have the right advice — the kind of advice you can get only from an experienced solar company with a background in both solar water heating systems and the latest photovoltaic technology.

Hi-Power Solar partners Ron Romero and Matt Adams have combined experience of 35 years as solar contractors in Hawaii. The company is a member of the Building Industry Association of Hawaii and Better Business Bureau and a participating contractor in the Hawaii Energy Program. Over the years, they have installed all types of systems, but only those that have been proven efficient and reliable. To ensure that the products they represent are “top of the line,” they travel to manufacturing plants nationwide to become fully conversant

concerns about aesthetics.

“The key is customization ... one size does not fit all. So, we invite anyone planning to upgrade, replace or install a new system to contact us for a free on-site consultation.

“We work with only proven local suppliers and technicians in order to support the local economy. We are also very selective about the manufacturers who produce our photovoltaic panels and support American industry wherever possible,” Romero said.

Hi-Power Solar can provide advice to the consumer on the best types of financing programs available for purchase of both solar and PV. Romero said that a home equity line of credit is sometimes the best option, or he can give referrals to credit unions that are able to offer good terms both to existing and new members.

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

APRIL 24, 2011 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 3

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Something New

A

in

Solar Thermal

t Pacific Islands Construction, workers believe there are excellent technologies available that provide consumers with better options. One new solar thermal product that fits this definition is a product from Apricus. The product is a new and more efficient type of solar water heating technology.

Apricus, a leading manufacturer of evacuated tube solar hot water collectors, has teamed up with distributor Lumen Solar to bring its innovative products to the local market. Originally developed in Australia, Apricus collectors are widely used in the continental U.S., Australia and Europe.

While evacuated tubes are gaining traction in many parts of the world, flat plate solar water heaters have

continued to dominate the Hawaii market. Flat plates do perform well under the full sun conditions that Hawaii is famous for; however, they lose significantly more heat to the environment, which makes them less efficient and more likely to re-radiate heat onto your rooftop when it could be going into your hot water supply. This particularly becomes a concern in Windward, upcountry and cooler valley areas, where every BTU counts.

Here’s how evacuated tubes work: Each Apricus evacuated tube consists of a double-walled vacuumsealed glass tube that is coated on the inside with aluminum nitride. Inside the tube is an aluminum fin and a vacuum-sealed copper heat pipe containing a small amount of distilled

PACIFIC ISLAND CONSTRUCTION

water, also under a vacuum.

As the collector heats up, the water inside the heat pipe boils, creating steam that transfers heat to copper header pipes inside the collector manifold. In Hawaii where freezing is not a threat, you can pump your potable water directly through the header pipes, where it is heated by conduction and then pumped into your storage tank.

The vacuum seal inside each evacuated tube provides excellent insulation, ensuring that the collector remains cool to the touch and loses minimal heat to the environment. In fact, the insulation value (also called R-value) of a vacuum is vir-

tually infinite — it would take 74 cubic miles of regular air to provide the same insulation as this vacuum!

The rounded surface of the evacuated tubes also increases their efficiency by maximizing exposure to direct sunlight as the sun moves across the sky. On silver or white-coated roofs, the efficiency is further boosted by up to 30 percent by the light reflecting from the roof underneath.

Apricus evacuated tubes are durable (tested to 1-inch hail at 50 mph) and removable, making for easy installation, maintenance, and replacement. If one tube breaks, a single person can remove it and the rest of the

system will function normally until the tube is replaced.

Extra tubes are available onisland at minimal cost. By contrast, replacing or servicing a flat plate system requires shutting down the system and removing the entire collector from the roof, which can be a threeor four-person job.

Apricus collectors come in 10-, 20- and 30-tube sizes and can be mixed and matched to reach your desired hot water output.

Assuming an average hot water usage of 20 gallons per person per day, one 30tube collector can serve a household of four people

with an 80-gallon tank in most parts of Hawaii. They are suitable for retrofits on existing hot water systems as well as new systems.

Retrofits on existing homes are eligible for a 30 percent federal tax credit, a 35 percent state tax credit (up to $2,250), and for systems installed by the end of June, Hawaii Energy is offering a $1,500 cash rebate (after June 30 the rebate will be $750). All told, replacing your electric water heater with a solar hot water system can pay for itself in as little as two years!

Call 841-7756 for more information.

Sometimes Bigger is Not Better

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South Shore Equipment • 677-0999 For more information or a Dealer nearest you Tiller Backhoe Auger Compact Trencher Stump Grinder 4 in1 Bucket Compact Loader Hydraulic Breaker Soil Cultivator

4 | HAWAII RENOVATION | APRIL 24, 2011

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HAWAIIRENOVATION BIA-Hawaii Remodelers

A Home

Built for Hawaii LLC; the photovoltaic panels sized, furnished and installed on the roof by RevoluSun LLC; and the radiant barrier Techshield roof sheeting deflects the sun’s rays, keeping the attic space cooler.

BY KAREN NAKAMURA

trusses supplied by Honolulu Wood Treating LLC and installed hat is under and on the by Sunrise Construction Inc., roof makes The New were made in a controlled enviHawaiian Home a ronment with precision laser green-comfortable living envi- measuring equipment that preronment that has life-cycle, cost- vents mistakes and material savings benefits. This is the new waste. The trusses are structuralway to build homes in Hawaii ly designed for The New because it is designed and built Hawaiian Home to support the for our tropical climate while weight of the light-color metal conserving our limited resources. roof that reflects heat and collects rainwater for irrigation supThe Roof plied by HPM Building Supply Pre-designed engineered wood and installed by Protech Roofing

W

Under the Roof Ecobat recycled fiberglass insulation supplied by Knauf Insulation and installed by Sinclaire Drywall Inc. was installed in the attic and under the second floor joists of the bedrooms that have air conditioners.

The purpose is to prevent the heat from penetrating from the attic into the rooms below and the cold air from escaping out of the conditioned bedrooms. The

B u i lt to l a st a n d l a st .

bearing, was supplied by Dietrich Industries Inc. Simpson StrongTie Company Inc. supplied all of the hurricane clips and hold downs to secure the structure roof, walls and second floor to the concrete foundation as required by the hurricane building code.

We will be featuring the construction methods used in building The New Hawaiian Home each month.

Visit our blog The New Hawaiian Home @ biahawaii.org, to learn more about how to build green and see the list of all of the participants who contributed to this home.

Airscapes whole house fan is ducted to the attic space and when turned on pulls outside air into the home and the hot air up and out through the attic vents, cooling the home within minutes. All exterior walls were insulated with Icynene foam insulation installed by JDH Construction Limited to create a controllable interior environment.

Oceanview Builders Inc. erected the steel-framed panels fabricated by Steel Truss & Panel LLC. CEMCO supplied the light gauge structural steel framing for the exterior walls, which are engineered to transfer the weight of the roof and second floor into the foundation. A new product, a lighter gauge steel stud for partition walls that are not weight

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

A gourmet kitchen at a blue plate price.

Pella® Impervia® fiberglass products offer unsurpassed strength and durability. They won’t expand and warp in the heat and are virtually impervious to all weather conditions. Options include three frame colors that have the look of quality, painted wood windows; today’s most popular hardware finishes; grillesbetween-the-glass in a variety of patterns; and exceptionally energy-efficient glass options.

Buy three or more Bosch kitchen appliances and save up to 15%.

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and take a closer look.

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APRIL 24, 2011 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 5

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Alternate Energy supports children’s play

on environmental issues

%

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ALTERNATE ENERGY

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KAIMUKI 1st & Waialae • 735-3005 KANEOHE 45-620 Kamehameha Hwy. (Behind 7-11) • 262-0900 SAND ISLAND 330 Sand Island Access Rd. • 841-6183

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

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

Ready for a

Kitchen Facelift ESSENTIAL CABINET REFACING

itchen remodeling can be a daunting task, but cabinet refacing makes it easier on many levels.

Refacing can actually save you money because it keeps the exist-

ing cabinet boxes in place. With refacing, only the exterior of the cabinets — doors, drawers and hardware — are replaced. This means you can change the entire look of the cabinets by choosing

a new color and style.

Refacing also is an easy way to update your kitchen at less than 50 percent of the cost of buying brand new. By not ripping the cabinets out of the kitchen, you save on labor and materials.

Many have that one problem area: the pantry that seems to have 10-year-old expired cans in

the back; the corner cabinet that you haven’t explored in years; the lost corner cabinet that you know has storage space somewhere back there, but you just can’t get to it.

Essential Cabinet Refacing Inc. can help you find solutions to these problems by doing simple carpentry modifications or adding some cabinet inserts or special hardware. Best yet, the job need not cost you thousands of extra dollars to do it.

If a new kitchen is what you

desire, contact Essential Cabinet Refacing Inc. immediately. The company builds new custom cabinets in its shop.

Everything is made to order by a team of skilled staff members. They have been in business 21 years and pride themselves on high-quality work offered at reasonable, competitive prices.

Owners Ringo and Michele Pauly have their offices and shop in the Sand Island area at 212 Mohonua Place. Showroom hours are from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

For information or to schedule a free, no obligation estimate, call 847-7835 or visit Essentialcabinetrefacing.com.

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10AM

671-0808 • 383-7233 www.windows-hawaii.com APRIL 24, 2011 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 7

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Painting

Perfection ISLAND BUDGET

because your company hanPAINTING dles big projects, example of a long-standing you won’t be available for client of Island Budget the smaller jobs,” Wexler Painting. Property mansaid. “That just isn’t the case agers, management compawith Island Budget Painting. he key to a perfect nies specializing in town- We enjoy the challenge of painting job, whether homes and apartment build- transforming a house or the project is big or ings, and homeowners asso- apartment for an owner small, residential or com- ciations are also regular with a great paint job. mercial, is choosing an expe- clients, requiring not only Working with a large, experienced, licensed contractor. new paint jobs but ongoing rienced contractor does not Island Budget Painting maintenance. Realtors upgrad- have to cost more, because owner Ted Wexler and his ing a home to enhance its we know exactly how to crew have combined experi- saleability also call on Wexler, proceed and have all the latence of over 37 years in the often with tight deadlines to est equipment. Hiring an business and a very long ros- meet. He works with some of amateur painter is like hirter of satisfied, repeat clients. Hawaii’s top architects and ing a novice computer techTesoro Service Stations interior designers, as well as nician — they may give you throughout Oahu are an directly with homeowners. a lower-per-hour price, but “People often assume that

T

it will take them more time to achieve the desired results. And the results may not be exactly what you had hoped for.

“When we quote a price, we explain exactly what it will take to do a perfect job ... meaning one that will be right the first time. If we know that existing surfaces have to be properly prepared in order to prevent cracking or peeling down the road, we will so advise the client.”

Wexler is a specialist in color selection and can assist clients in making choices and matching existing colors or furnishings, as well as advise on the best products for the job. His crew is experienced in working with difficult jobsites that may require scaffolding and operating within the parameters set by condominiums.

Island Budget Painting also provides concrete repair, which is often called for in commercial contracts involving older buildings that are being restored or converted for new uses.

For more information, call Wexler at 255-8612.

APRIL 24 EWA BEACH 25 KAIMUKI 30 MANOA MAY 1 DIAMOND HEAD NIU VALLEY

-built Custom aii in Haw

Improve your lifestyle with the new patented Stainless Steel Security Doors & Screens and Hurricane Shutters all in one.

24/7 Hurricane Shutters – Miami Dade and Florida Building Code approved.

24/7 Security Screens – Peace-of-mind with a clear view. The strength of high-tensile stainless steel that also looks great.

Visit RevoluSun.com to find a solar open house near you or call 748.8888 for a complete schedule and addresses.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

Hawaiian SunGuard has

Silicone Roof Coating for

F

Ponding Roofs

or many years, Hawaiian SunGuard (HSG) has been the leader in providing waterproof Ceramic Titanium roof coatings.

These water-based coatings have been proven to both cool and preserve the existing roof surface by blocking 100 percent of the sun’s UV rays. When HSG is embedded into a reinforcing fabric it forms a tough, waterproof system that withstands most standing water conditions. Like all water-based acrylic coatings, however, it can break down over time in areas of extreme ponding — like in the photo shown at left.

For those extreme situations, HSG has developed its new solvent-free Hawaiian SunGuard Silicone line.

Silicone has been proven for years as a durable waterproof coating.

However, it has often had very high

LEAKMASTERS levels of dangerous VOCs (volatile organic compounds), which have been shown to harm the environment and human health.

Because HSG Silicone is solventfree, it has ultra-low VOCs — only 10.2 grams/liter vs. 249 grams/liter for another leading local brand of silicone.

Even better, HSG Silicone has 95 percent solids versus only 69 percent for another local brand of silicone. That means you get more of the effective ingredients in every bucket — and less of the smelly, dangerous solvents.

That’s why after 10,000 hours of exposure under the testing method, ASTM B4799, “no degradation” was report-

ed. That’s why Leakmasters can offer warranties of 5, 10, 15 and 20 years, depending on your situation.

HSG Silicone can be professionally installed by Leakmasters, or you may wish to do it yourself. If so, Green Energy Outlet is offering a free “Do it Yourself Seminar and Sale” on Saturday, May 4 at its location at 575G Cooke St. in Kakaako. Come anytime from noon till 4 p.m. as the demo will be repeated throughout the day.

Leakmasters also will be demonstrating how to apply its popular acrylic version of HSG at that same event. Past events have been well attended, and the company’s products often sell out — because of the “One Day, Only Sale” at that event.

For more information, call 5911900.

CUSTOM CABINETRY Raised Panel Hardwood Doors, Plantation to Contemporary Design

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ESSENTIAL CABINET REFACING INC. Showroom Hours Mon-Sat 8-4:30 | 212 Mohonua Place, C-3 | License #C24208 22 Years In Business | www.essentialcabinetrefacing.com | 847-7835 APRIL 24, 2011 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 9

HAWAIIRENOVATION

The

Siding

Solution Craneboard’s revolutionary, lifetime-warranted products can update the look of your home and put an end to the aesthetic and maintenance headaches of years past

H

ome siding in Hawaii has always been an area of high maintenance and high frustration.

Sun, rain, humidity and salt are constantly combining their strengths to break down painted wood, vinyl and aluminum siding.

Fortunately, modern technology has developed a new line of products that look great and are guaranteed in writing to stay that way.

Windows Hawaii, an established replacement window company, has now expanded its offerings by becoming the

Hawaiian Islands’ distributor and licensed installation contractor for Craneboard siding.

Craneboard’s revolutionary, lifetime-warranted products can update the look of your home and put an end to the aesthetic and maintenance headaches of years past.

Craneboard is a high-tech acrylic product that looks and feels like wood.

Its attractive products come in a variety of styles and colors and, best of all, never need to be painted.

However, don’t confuse Craneboard with the vinyl siding that you may

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have seen in the past 10 or 20 years.

Craneboard is an architecturally designed product line that can cover walls, eaves and overhangs, as well as trim and fascia boards.

Most importantly, it won’t fade or chalk like vinyl.

Craneboard has included several unique features to increase the value and performance of the product. Insulated backing helps keep your home cool. Its patented solid

backing also includes Performguard to repel termites and ants.

Revolutionary SmartTrack technology, one of the product’s greatest benefits, allows your home to breathe so that moisture vapor doesn’t get trapped in the walls and cause mold or dry rot.

And for homeowners in Hawaii, that can mean peace of mind.

Craneboard has been testing this product for seven years, and the product is already installed on more than 100,000 homes nationwide. The company backs its product with the industry’s strongest warranty, which includes lifetime coverage for the original homeowner. So if you’re looking for an attractive solution to the fading, chalking and

cracking, give Craneboard a look — you might be surprised by what you see.

For a free, no-obligation estimate, call Windows Hawaii at 671-0808. Windows Hawaii is offering a limitedtime set of incentives for homeowners. The company also has affordable window packages.

For more information, see www.exteriorportfo lio.com.

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GE Appliances

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

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Repairing is

Recycling I

f you’re not ready to let go of that old appliance or just can’t afford to buy a new one right now, call Reliable Parts and see what can be done to revitalize that old appliance.

Reliable Parts will help to give your appliance a much-needed facelift, with new burners, cook tops, panels, controls, knobs, switches, filters, control panels, racks, drawers, pans and many more cosmetic items. Reliable Parts carries parts for most brands of major household appliances, including washers, dryers, refrigerators, dishwashers, water heaters and window air conditioners.

It’s best to bring in the model and serial number of the appliance since the parts are sometimes

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model- and serial-specific. Most major household appliances should last between 10 and 15 years, and in some cases, even longer.

Reliable Parts also carries stain removers, scratch-removal kits, cleaners for all types of surfaces, rustremoval products, appliance paints, brushes and many other products.

Need cleaning products for appliances, bathrooms, kitchens and floors? The company has them.

Many of the products are unique and hard to find anywhere else in Hawaii. Take a look at the compa-

ny’s home care baskets for yourself, or as a house- warming gift for a friend.

All parts come with a 90-day warranty and most of the cleaning products have a “satisfaction guarantee” on them.

What are your appliance parts needs? Just ask one of Reliable Parts’ specialists and they’ll get that item for you. The wide range of electrical test equipment made by Fluke and Klein tools will help keep the job safe.

Be sure to turn off the power and unplug the appliance before attempting to repair it. When you need a professional repair person, check

Leaky Roof?

the yellow pages or the Internet for a qualified service provider.

Reliable Parts is your one-stop shop for all household appliance needs and can be found on line at www.partshawaii.com or www.reliableparts.com.

Reliable Parts is located at 1550 Kalani St. in Honolulu (847-3271) and 94-472 Ukee St. in Waipio Gentry (676-2664).

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

How to get a

complete kitchen makeover

$500

for less than

T

he kitchen has always been the heart of the home — a place where the family socializes and entertains friends. It’s no wonder a kitchen remodel occupies first place on many homeowners’ wish lists, especially at a time when families are spending less time dining out and more time at home.

Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most expensive and time-consuming home improvement projects a family will undertake, ranging from $17,000 to $20,000 for a basic kitchen remodel.

“Since the kitchen occupies a highly visible space in the home, it’s understandable that families want it to reflect their style and personality. But unfortunately, a traditional kitchen remodel can mean a bigger investment of time and money than many families can

handle,” says Rust-Oleum senior brand manager Ann Gearty.

“Fortunately, now there’s an affordable alternative. For less than $500, homeowners can update their old, outdated cabinets and countertops and make them look brand new thanks to breakthrough coating technologies.”

Here’s how you can get your own kitchen transformation on a budget:

scheme for your new kitchen.

Start with the cabinets They are the focal point of any kitchen and will set the tone for the look and feel of the entire room. Instead of replacing or refacing, it’s easy to transform worn, outdated cabinets to the look of beautiful hand-crafted cabinets with Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations. The refinishing system provides you with all the tools you need to give Select a color scheme Dark accent walls with neutral your cabinets a fresh, new look colors are all the trend right now, for less than $150 — without the but you’ll want to make sure you stripping, sanding or priming choose a color palette that associated with cabinet painting. expresses your personal style It works on all types of cabinets and that you think will be — wood, melamine, laminate and around for years to come. Home more. Plus it is available in 70 decorating magazines and web- beautiful finishes and is guaransites are great sources of inspira- teed to last for years to come. tion when selecting a color

Rethink your current countertop You don’t have to replace your countertop to get a sleek new look. With new Rust-Oleum Countertop Transformations, you can transform your worn or damaged laminate countertops at a fraction of the cost of replacement. Available in a convenient kit for $250, the innovative coating system comes with all the tools needed to transform your outdated countertops to mirror the look of natural stone such as granite. The coating was put through extensive testing to ensure it could stand up against daily wear and tear. It’s available in five different colors and is so

easy to use, the entire project can be completed in less than a weekend.

Don’t forget the details It’s easy to make your old cabinet knobs and pulls look brand new with a few coats of spray paint. Try a spray paint like RustOleum Universal Oil-Rubbed Bronze to mimic one of today’s hottest metal finishes at a fraction of the cost. The possibilities are only limited by your imagination.

For more information on alternatives to the traditional kitchen remodel visit: www.rustoleum transformations.com

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

HAWAIIRENOVATION

Create a stylish

outdoor space

on a budget

I

f your patio furniture, barbecue grill or favorite outdoor planter were left outside this winter, they probably took a beating. But, think twice before you relegate your favorite lounge chair or lawn ornament to the landfill. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to transform them and make them look better than new. All you need is a little imagination and a few cans of spray paint. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Replacing outdoor furniture can be expensive and in many cases, unnecessary,â&#x20AC;? says Rust-Oleum home improvement expert and PaintIdeas.com blogger, Angie Stinner. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

easy to transform worn, damaged outdoor furniture and accessories with a little spray paint. And, with a variety of popular colors and on-trend finishes from which to choose, you can upcycle the things you already own and make them look better than new.â&#x20AC;?

Here are a few tips from PaintIdeas.com: â&#x20AC;˘ Create â&#x20AC;&#x153;designerâ&#x20AC;? furniture. Designer patio sets, lawn chairs and other outdoor furniture can cost hundreds, even thousands of dollars. But, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy and inexpensive to give the furniture you already own a facelift that mimics the look of trendy designer

buried under three feet of snow, it could probably use a little TLC. Why not revive it with a spray paint specifically formulated for high heat applications, like furniture with a few coats grills? For example, RustOleum High Heat Ultra of spray paint. resists heat up to 1,200 â&#x20AC;˘ Create a durable degrees Fahrenheit so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s designer look that sparkles great for grills, fire pits and in the sun with a textured wood burning stoves. Plus, black paint with flecks of itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s available in traditional silver. The texture adds black, as well as stylish coldepth, elegance and ors and finishes, like brown unmatched protection to and aged copper so your any project. Or, create a barbecue grill will look betrich oil-rubbed bronze fin- ter than new. ish, while protecting your â&#x20AC;˘ Accessories can get a furniture from the elements with Rust-Oleum second life too. No need to Universal spray paint. toss planters, lawn ornaChoose an unexpected ments or other outdoor color, like Painterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Touch accessories because their 2X Satin Eden. You also finish has been weather can transform garage sale damaged. Spray paint can bargains, flea market finds, give them a second life. Try or used furniture you find spray painting planters with on sites like CraigsList or Rust-Oleum Stops Rust for Freecycle with spray paint a rooftop garden or patio in to get a designer look with- a variety of vegetable colors â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Sunrise Red for tomaout the designer price tag. toes, Hunter Green for letâ&#x20AC;˘ Revive an old barbecue tuce or green peppers, difgrill. If your grill was ferent shades of green for herbs. Or use Universal

Brown Hammered to give worn statuary a rustic, modern look. The possibilities to add a splash of color â&#x20AC;&#x201D; or a little sophistication â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to a patio, rooftop or backyard are endless.

For more inspiration, project ideas â&#x20AC;&#x201D; or to share a project youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve done â&#x20AC;&#x201D; visit PaintIdeas.com. Or, find Paint Ideas on Facebook at Facebook. com/Paintideas.

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APRIL 24, 2011 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 13

HAWAIIRENOVATION

4

I

helpful tips

t’s that time of the year when it’s only natural that we start thinking about spring cleaning. In addition to organizing and cleaning this year, consider the following tips to change up your annual routine and make your home a little greener.

for

spring greening

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a leaky faucet dripping at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water per year.

Want to know if you have any leaky fixtures around the house? Routinely monitor the water meter and keep a record of the numbers. Any reading that is higher than usual could indicate a problem.

The EPA-sponsored WaterSense program aims to preserve water by supporting water-efficient products, programs and practices. Visit its website to learn different ways to save water, tips to help you identify and repair leaky fixtures and other fun facts.

1. Green your supplies Replace harsh household cleaning products with environmentally safe and natural solutions. Not only are they biodegradable and therefore better for the environment, but they contain no toxic chemicals.

Plus, making cleaning solutions from items in your pantry such as vinegar, lemon juice and baking soda can help cut down on packaging waste. Many 3. Clean out your shower credible online resources Before you start scrubbing offer recipes for alternayour tub or shower, take tive cleaning products. inventory of all the items you keep in it. Consolidate where 2. Check for leaks Leaks in the home, such you can and consider using as drafty windows and fragrance-free products and fixtures. doors or dripping faucets, water-efficient can lead to wasted money During a recent nationwide and resources. Check for study conducted on behalf of air leaks in your house by Delta Faucet Company, 40 inspecting areas around the percent of respondents said windows and doors, as well they had never changed their as in the attic or crawl- showerhead. The EPA reports space. Properly sealing that if just one out of every 10 those spaces can help you homes in the United States cut back on cooling costs upgraded to WaterSenseand increase comfort. labeled products, the comInformation on how to bined savings would be more assess your home and than 120 billion gallons of determine how much insu- water and more than $800 millation you need can be lion annually.

If you haven’t replaced found at www.EnergyStar .gov. If you want to hire a your showerhead recently, professional, then Masco then look into Delta’s Home Services' WellHome WaterSense-labeled fixprogram provides perform- tures. They flow at a rate of ance assessments to help no more than 2.0 gallons homeowners improve per minute (gpm) and help home energy-efficiency you save water in your daily routine. and comfort.

14 | HAWAII RENOVATION | APRIL 24, 2011

“We’ve found that users want green products as long as they don’t have to sacrifice their experience with water,” says Paul Patton, senior product developer for Delta Faucet Company.

“H2Okinetic Technology creates larger droplets to provide a drenching shower experience while improving water efficiency up to 40 percent compared to the industry standard."

4. Responsibly dispose of unwanted items Cleaning and organizing your closets can be refreshing. As you inventory your closet and dressers, categorize items into different piles: keep for now, store for later and donate.

If you haven’t worn or used something in a year, then consider donating it. The Salvation Army and Goodwill Industries provide information on their websites for how to locate a donation center and identify what types of items are accepted.

Both organizations accept clothing, furniture and general household items in various locations.

Go through the items in your garage and get rid of any chemicals, cleaners, or cans of paint that haven’t been used in awhile. Read the product

labels for disposal instructions or check the manufacturer’s website for details. Earth911.org provides information about how to safely discard many toxic products.

Making your home more environmentally

friendly this spring can be easy and cost-effective.

Not only could these ecoconscious tips help you save money, but they also provide you with the opportunity to give back to the community and support the environment at the same time.

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

HAWAIIRENOVATION

S

pring means cleaning tools, replacing equipment and sprucing up the yard. To start your season off greener, consider using electric or cordless lawn care products.

“Electric products have become a reliable and eco-friendly way to do yard work,” says Coey Genuise, product marketing manager for Remington, a leading manufacturer of cordless and electric power tools. “They are virtually silent, lighter, more energy-efficient and don't require any gas or oil, which avoids mess and hassle and saves you money.”

Mowing is an important step in keeping your lawn healthy. In order to keep it as green as possible, use an electric or cordless mower. These mowers are less expensive to maintain and operate because there’s no need for gas and oil. A cordless push mower also allows emissionsfree power without the hassle of a cord. One model from Remington features a removable 24 volt battery that can last approximately 30 to 50 minutes from one charge depending on mowing conditions, which is more than enough time to mow a small-sized lawn.

When finishing your lawn, another way to help keep the grass and the environment greener is to use an

electric string trimmer. Electric trimmers are lighter, so your arm doesn’t get tired; and they’re quieter, so ear protectors aren't necessary.

However, you should always wear safety glasses and heavy duty gloves whenever using any outdoor power equipment.

Consider these tips to help keep your lawn looking great and your equipment running smoothly.

Start spring off

green

electric products

• Make sure to clean your mower and other tools before doing any work in the yard to keep them running longer.

before pulling out the mower. Raking also helps remove any dead grass and can detangle any grass that has become matted and stuck together.

• To avoid accidental startup, always remove the power source before doing any maintenance work on your trimmer, mower or other outdoor power equipment.

• When using a string trimmer, make sure the tip of the spinning line does most of the cutting so as not to overload the motor.

Try a Remington electric string trimmer that has an 18-volt motor, 12-inch cutting swath and straight shaft.

• Sharpen or replace mower blades at the beginning of each season. This ensures you’ll have a full season of great lawn cuts.

• Know the battery type of your cordless equipment. If your equipment operates on NiCad batteries, run the battery down before recharging it. NiCad batteries have memories, which means if you have a 30-minute battery and continually recharge it after 10 minutes, you’ll end up with a 10-minute battery. If your

cordless equipment is powered by a lithium-ion battery, charge it whenever you’re done. If your mower has a battery, make sure you don't run it down completely because that could ruin it. Keep the battery in charge mode so it

• Never cut any branches, twigs or shrubbery with a string trim• Clear your yard of rocks, mer, as they are too thick for the twigs, wires and other debris to nylon string to cut. Rather, try a keep from damaging equip- Remington hedge trimmer to keep your shrubs looking neat ment.

• Make sure to rake the lawn and healthy. stays powered up.

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Cold spray-applied featuring hot applied thermoplastic performance Can be applied with standard airless spray equipment APRIL 24, 2011 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 15

BACKPAGECOVERSTORY

Aging Gracefully,

Safely in Your

A

n increasing number of retirement plans now include the retiree’s desire to remain in his or her own home as he or she grows older. It’s estimated that Americans age 65 and older will number 55 million by 2020 — and many of them are choosing to remain at home instead of moving to a retirement community.

According to a survey cited by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), 89 percent of people age 50 and older desire to live in their current homes indefinitely.

However, not all homes today meet the changing needs of aging adults or those with limited mobility. Remodelers are continually searching for ideas to meet the needs of aging homeowners.

Thanks to a building concept called “universal design,” many older adults are now living more safely, comfortably and independently in their homes.

Remodeling your home today — including choosing the best window and door options — can help you better enjoy your current home for many years to come.

“Ultimately, universal design takes into consideration the 16 | HAWAII RENOVATION | APRIL 24, 2011

Photos courtesy of Pella Windows & Doors

Own Home

PELLA

WINDOWS & DOORS need for buildings to keep pace with changing lifestyles and needs as occupants grow older,” said Gary Mathes, Pella’s manager of architectural support services. “Pella designs window and door solutions to accommodate a variety of those needs to make life easier.”

What is universal design?

Universal design is based on the theory that homes and businesses should best serve the people who live and work in them. It recognizes the diversity in people and their varying abilities.

“Universal design principles help make a building safer and more comfortable for people of all ages,” Mathes said. “For example, more spacious 36-inch wide doorways provide ample room for you to maneuver in and out whether you’re carrying a bag of groceries or confined to a wheelchair.”

Design ideas from Pella If you’re considering

a

remodeling or replacement project, take a critical look at your windows and doors with an eye to the future. Select properly functioning windows and doors that will meet your needs as you age. Pella products are designed to make your life easier now and in the future.

“Pella has window designs to make cleaning glass surfaces easier, more convenient and safer because exterior glass surfaces can be washed from inside your home,” Mathes explained.

Casement and awning windows feature a sash that moves toward the center of the frame a full four inches — wider than most standard casements. They also feature a unison-style lock that secures two locks with one easy-to-grasp handle and an integrated crank with a foldaway handle that doesn’t interfere with interior window treatments.

Double-hung windows have a tilt-to-clean sash that makes cleaning safer and easier than getting up and getting outside on a ladder.

Pella’s Designer Series® products are offered with cordless between-the-glass window fash-

ions, like fabric shades or stylish blinds, and removable grilles that are ideal for universal design projects. Benefits include: • Design versatility, which is expanded, to suit changing needs and tastes, and provides convenient privacy.

• Between-the-glass blinds and shades are protected from dust and damage, requiring less maintenance and cleaning.

• Comfort and environmental control are enhanced and easily achieved with easy-to-operate cranks and handles.

• Between-the-glass shades and blinds with no roomside cords eliminate potential choking hazards for children or pets.

Pella’s hinged doors offer multi-point locking systems that can be engaged or disengaged from one easy-to-reach lever handle — no need to reach high or bend low. Hinged doors also provide options for oneinch high sills and 32-inch clear opening widths that allow for easy wheelchair accessibility.

Call Pella Windows & Doors at 841-3200 for a free estimate or visit www.pella.com or the company showroom at 214B Sand Island Access Road to view the many product offerings.

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