Hawaii Renovation 27 February 2011

HAWAII

FEBRUARY 27, 2011

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

Wall pictures tell your story he types of pictures you have in your home should depict something with a positive message. Many people don’t realize it but the pictures you have on your wall are “speaking” to you, constantly pouring the energy of what is depicted in those pictures into your home. The more time you spend time there, the more your subconscious picks up the pictures’ messages.

Do you have pictures that depict desolation, emptiness, loneliness, turbulence and fatigue? Or do you have images that depict life force, abundance, vitality, peace and harmony?

I’ve noticed that oftentimes, there are correlations between what is going on in people’s lives and what is on their walls.

T

GOASK

ALICE

by Alice Inoue

mid-40s, who had been divorced for seven years, and thought feng shui might help him find a relationship — the only thing he felt was lacking in his life. He mentioned that he

A consultation n story My most memorable consultation involved a man in his

had minimal opportunities to meet women, and those he did meet seemed to “take off,” sometimes for other men and sometimes for other cities.

abundance and love. I also suggested that he decorate his bedroom to make it as warm and welcoming as the rest of his home.

Observation n off the e space In feng shui, the bedroom represents relationships, so that was where I anticipated most of our feng shui work would be done. When I walked into the bedroom, the most interesting things in the room were the two pictures on the wall.

Use e yourr wallss forr energetic support Take a look at the images on your own walls. If they remind you of a time you would rather forget or from which you would like to move forward, or if they emit the kind of energy you do not want around you, then take them down and find pictures with inspiring energy, and hang those. When in doubt about what to hang, pictures showing nature, landscapes, happiness, vitality, favorite places and cherished items are a great place to start. Commit to using

Choose e the e rightt pictures The first picture, placed directly over his bed, was a large photo of dried, cracked earth. It looked desolate and grey, lacking any feeling of life. On the other wall, which he could see while lying in bed, was a picture of an airplane taking off. The two pictures specifically reflected what he said to me in his living room: he had a lack of women in his life (black and white photo of dry earth), and the women he did meet seemed to, like the airplane, “take off.”

I suggested that he display pictures that represent relationship energy, such as items shown in pairs, and images depicting vibrancy, life force,

your walls not just as structural support, but as energetic support as well!

Feng shui expert and life guide Alice Inoue offers books, DVDs, workshops and private consultations. For more information, visit www.aliceinoue.com.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

Turning to the

Sun

(and EnergyPro Hawaii) to lower your monthly electric bill

P

eople often ask how much money can be saved by installing solar products in their home. It can be difficult to understand how beneficial and cost effective these photovoltaic systems are without understanding the basic facts about solar and the available options.

A typical household on Oahu uses approximately 600 KWH (kilowatt hours) of electricity each month, translating into an electric bill of about $175.

If this home has an elec-

tric water heater, the most cost-effective way to reduce the electric bill is to install a solar hot water system, which will save about $70. A 10-panel solar electrical system will typically eliminate $90 from that same monthly bill. After subsidies and incentives are factored, it takes only 3.5 years to recoup the cost of that newly installed solar hot water system and 6.5 years to recoup the cost of the solar electric system.

Solar hot water systems are extremely

effective in most areas of Hawaii. Local incentive programs will not only provide an instant $750 credit towards the purchase, they also will provide a free 100-point inspection of the new system to ensure years of hassle-free service.

A solar electric system would be the next best step in reducing your electricity costs. Advances in solarpanel technology and new micro inverters that convert DC into AC power at every panel help to dramatically increase energy

efficiency. Manufacturers offer monitoring of the system’s electrical production and instantly assist in the event of a malfunction. Sanyo PV panels warrant a production level of 90 percent after 10 years, 80 percent after 20 years and can be expected to last more than 30 years!

One can only imagine the cost of electricity in the future. The “green

impact” of solar goes beyond financial savings, though. EnergyPro Hawaii offers the latest technology and the most cost-effective solar products available. The company’s heliodyne hot water systems have a proven track record of more than 30 years. And Energy Pro’s solar electric systems consisting of enphase micro inverters and Sanyo dual-lay-

ered photovoltaic panels provide the most bang for the buck, as well as out-produce any PV panel/micro inverter combo that is being installed today.

In addition, EnergyPro Hawaii installs tankless gas water heaters and specializes in other energy-saving solutions.

For more information, call EnergyPro Hawaii at 596-2890.

FEB. 27, 2011 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 3

HAWAIIRENOVATION f you are building or remodeling your home or business, you know the importance of deciding what investment is the best one for your project — now and in the future. If you haven’t considered tile as an option for your build or remodel, maybe you should. There are many advantages, including durability, cleanliness and versatility, to having tile installed in your home or business.

At the top of the list of advantages is the lifetime investment you are making. Tiles are surviving time and trends because when they are properly laid over a solid sub frame, they not only look fabulous, but could very well last as long as the house.

This puts tile installations at the top of the investment list as a home improvement and financing project, especially since they are linked to the two most popular and rewarding home improvement projects today: making durable and attractive floor surfaces for both kitchen and bathroom makeovers.

Tile is the perfect surface material for bathrooms, kitchens and just about any other room in your house. When it comes to tile, there are different options to consider depending on your environment, budget and design concept.

Why it’s worthwhile I to

Tile

Ceramic tiles are largely made of clay that has been heated to high temperatures, thus making them very hard and durable. This also means that they are really tough and when laid with the correct thin set mortar, grout and seal, you will have a virtually water-resistant surface that will survive all of your bathroom splashes and kitchen spills.

Natural stone is a product of nature, and no two tiles are exactly alike. Besides its unique beauty and artistic quality, natural stone is easy on the environment and adds value to any property. Natural stone is one of the

most durable surfaces available.

When correctly fabricated and installed, it lasts a lifetime. This durability, combined with the natural beauty of stone, makes it one of the most popular materials of choice.

Porcelain tile also is a great choice, resistant to scratches, wear and tear and cleaner usage.

Since it is completely nonabsorbent, porcelain tile can be used indoors and outdoors. If by chance a chip develops in your porcelain, it should be unnoticeable because the porcelain tiles are solid all the way through, SEE PAGE 14

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

Homeownership

Can Bring Big Savings at Tax Time

BY KAREN NAKAMURA

s the April 18 federal income tax filing deadline approaches, millions of Americans are sitting down and sorting through dozens of forms to determine how much money they owe Uncle Sam — or, how much of a refund they will get this year. One of those forms, the Mortgage Interest Statement Form 1098, can mean big savings for homeowners at tax time.

Form 1098, which homeowners receive from their lenders, shows

A

the total amount of home mortgage interest paid during the year.

Homeowners who itemize their federal income tax deductions can deduct 100 percent of their mortgage interest payments on a first or second home for up to $1 million of mortgage debt.

They also can deduct the interest paid on up to $100,000 of home equity loans.

For most homeowners, this means they can deduct all of the mortgage interest they’ve paid on their home each year.

The ability to deduct home mortgage and home equity loan interest isn’t the only tax benefit for homeowners.

The three most important sources of tax savings for homeowners are: • Deductions for mortgage interest • Deductions for real estate taxes • The capital gains exclusion for the sale of a principal residence Homeowners also are able to deduct the state and local real estate taxes

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they pay each year on an owner-occupied home.

When it is time to sell a home, in many cases homeowners don’t have to pay capital gains tax on the profit from the sale.

Under present law, married couples who have owned and occupied their

principal residence for at least two of the past five years do not have to pay any taxes on the first $500,000 in profits from the sale of their home.

Single filers earn up to $250,000 tax free.

Another deduction homeowners may be able

to take is for mortgage insurance premiums.

Generally, people who purchase a home without putting 20 percent down have to buy mortgage insurance, and those premiums can also be deducted from taxSEE PAGE 14

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

The Basics of Photovoltaics Pacific Islands Construction makes it easier for consumers to make ‘the right decision’ here are many aspects about photovoltaic systems you need to know prior to purchasing. Basic knowledge will help assure you that the purchase is an informed decision. It has been our experience that consumers know very little about the technology and depend far too much on what they are being told.

Pacific Islands Construction feels that with a little bit of information, consumers will be better equipped to make the right decision for themselves.

The first thing one should know is that the sunlight that is available in the area you live will determine the amount of energy a system will produce. On average, Hawaii has a little more than fiveand-a-half hours per day of energy producing sunlight throughout the year. In the winter, we have less and in the summer we have more.

T

Some days we have none because of cloud cover. All of these are factored in to come up with an average to predict how much sun-

light we have available and then how much energy any one system should produce. If the area you live in tends to get more

cloud cover, has a ridge blocking sunlight for a period of time, or has any structure that blocks the sunlight to a roof area

where modules are located, you will have less energy produced on average than the assumed five-andone-half hours.

Photovoltaic (PV) systems that place modules on the east or west sides of a structure and do not face south will not be as efficient as south-facing modules. We are seeing a lot of installations where the modules are facing an east or west direction that will not receive as many hours of sunlight. In many cases the amount of roof area facing south is limited so making the decision to place panels on east- or west-facing areas may be your only option. It is important to not be misled into believing that these modules will receive the most productive sunlight.

These roofs will still be productive, but not optimal. Be careful that the energy you are being told will be produced is reflective of actual production, not sales talk.

Energy production will decrease over time as the modules age and are affected by environmental conditions. Studies have shown that the energy produced by photovoltaic modules depreciate on average about 0.7 percent per year.

The average systems will produce 7 percent less energy after 10 years and 14

percent less energy after 20 years than when originally installed. Some manufacturers who have been producing modules for over 25 years have a better track record than the average.

Kyocera, a manufacturer of solar modules that Pacific Islands Construction recommends, has modules at a testing facility that have depreciated by less than 10 percent after 25 years.

Kyocera feels it makes a better module today. Less depreciation in energy production over time means more savings for owners using Kyocera modules.

Keep in mind, most manufactures claim that after 25 years their modules will produce at least 80 percent of what they did when first installed. The 25-year warranty is not a product warranty and should not be confused with what these warranties are providing.

PV systems are being installed on your roof, so it is important that they are being installed with racking systems and flashing that meet the IBC (International Building Code). The modules must be installed so that they do not fly off the roof during high winds, and to ensure they do not, many roof penetrations are made to secure the racking system SEE PAGE 12

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Shock Value

Alternative Electric can protect your home, family from electrical fires ave you ever had any doubts about your home’s electrical system? Is your home’s electrical system more than 50 years old, and is it properly grounded?

While most people focus on the cosmetics of their property, a home’s electrical system is often taken for granted until an

H

electrical hazard occurs.

And that’s a risk no one should be willing to take, according to Chad Matsumoto and Bronson Apana, co-owners of Alternative Electric in Honolulu.

“With all the house fires that have recently been occurring on Oahu, an increasing number of homeowners are question-

ing the safety of their home’s electrical system,” says Matsumoto. “If you ever thought about having your system checked out, why wait any longer?”

Matsumoto offers a few do-it-yourself checks that can be done before you even call an electrician: • Do you have loose outlets in your home? Loose outlets may lead to loose connections, thus creating an arcing effect. Arcing may cause sparking and excessive heat, leading to

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a possible fire.

• Have you ever had rodent problems? Rodents may chew away the insulation around your wiring, leaving the live portion exposed.

• Are there GFCI outlets in your kitchen and bathroom? Today, GFCI outlets are required in these rooms because of their close proximity to water.

These outlets trip off when an imbalance of current is sensed, thus eliminating potential shock hazards.

• Does your home have knob-and–tube wiring?

This type of wiring was generally installed before the 1960s. As time goes by, the insulation around this type of wiring gets brittle and starts to fall off — leaving live exposed wiring.

Today, most insurance companies will not open new policy if the home has knob-and-tube wiring.

• Do you have problems with circuit breakers tripping off? Circuit breakers are a source of protection

for your homes electrical system.

“While most electrical contractors shy away from rewiring older homes, Alternative Electric welcomes all type of electrical work,” says Matsumoto.

“We are a full-service electrical contractor offering solar photovoltaics, new construction, rewires, renovations, maintenance, trouble calls or just changing a light or outlet.”

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Remember that ECR can do the job and make it fit your budget. Refacing is an excellent way to use your money wisely.

ECR has more than 20 years experience in satisfying cus-

D

tomers. The company can save you money by refacing your cabinets — a method that gives the kitchen a new look without having to rip everything out.

The doors and drawers are replaced and the faces of the cabinets are resurfaced, but the rest of the cabinet box remains intact and in place.

Your kitchen will have an entirely new look! Refacing saves on cost and makes everything more convenient for you.

ECR can also make problem areas more efficient and accessible. Need more cabinet space and have room for a new pantry? Need to replace your dishwasher with a cabinet?

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sales commission). If you are ready to have all your cabinets replaced, ECR can build all new custom cabinets — made to order.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION hen you sit back to relax in the tub, or take time to preen in front of the bathroom vanity, do you often feel that the setting just isn't giving you the comforting and spa-like experience you wish you could feel at home?

Sure, you take good care of your bathroom — you’ve scrubbed the faucets to make them as shiny as you can, and everything works the way it has for many years. But maybe it’s time you gave your bathroom a refreshing change — one that not only gives you the luxurious feeling of comfort and elegance, but also that benefits your wallet and the environment.

You may be surprised to learn that bathroom showers, toilets and sinks account for about 75 percent of the water used in each American home. If you haven’t replaced any of your faucets or toilets for many years, you may be not only struggling with keeping these older fixtures looking clean and fresh, you may also be paying a lot of extra money to keep them running.

Consider your toilet. Older toilets can use as much as 5 gallons of water per flush, while stylish modern toilets are

Bathroom W upgrades will freshen the room — and save you money

designed to cut that amount by more than a third. And some models, like the new high-efficiency Aquia Wall-Hung Dual Flush HET, which uses TOTO’s Dual-Max flushing system, can use as little as 0.9 gallons per flush. These qualities earn this toilet the EPA WaterSense label for being water efficient. And being wall hung makes sense aesthetically — by hiding the tank in the wall and lifting the toilet from the floor (making cleaning a breeze), you can save a total of 9 inches of precious room space.

Now take a look at your vanity and see your faucet for what it is. If the faucet has been around for many years, excessive use may have corroded some of the metal finish, or even worn away the hot and cold labels. A new faucet would not only freshen the look of the vanity, but also give your bathroom a beautiful new look.

Standard bathroom faucets use 2.2 gallons of water per minute, newer models are available that provide the robust drenching needed to clean your hands while only using a modest 1.5 gallons per minute. One is TOTO’s chic Aquia Single Handle High-Efficiency Faucet, available in heights to match

your sink selection (undermount, self-rimming, or vessel).

Finally, check out the showerhead in your tub. You may already have upgraded your showerhead once since 1992, when it became a requirement that showerheads use no more than 2.5 gallons per minute. But newer models allow you to save even more water. The average person showers for eight minutes each day, so switching to a high-efficiency showerhead can save a family of four more than 8,700 gallons of water each year and reduce the demand on their water heater, saving them enough energy to power their television for a year. The Nexus High-Efficiency Showerhead from TOTO offers an invigorating showering experience with a responsible 1.75 gallons per minute water volume being consumed — which is a 30 percent savings over the legal limit.

Freshening up your outdated plumbing fixtures is a great step toward creating a spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom.

Not only will you be able to enjoy the comfortable and beautiful bath space, but you'll also know that the changes are benefiting your pocketbook and the environment.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

A Private Oasis Choosing the right fountain for your outdoor space

panish explorer Ponce de Leon spent many years and covered many miles searching for the fabled “fountain of youth.” Fortunately, you don’t have to go to those lengths to find a special fountain that will transform your backyard into a private oasis. You only need to make a trip to the local garden store.

Water’s ability to relax the human soul is virtually unmatched in the natural world. The gentle sounds of flowing water can wash stress from our lives, restoring and relaxing us. That universal appeal is making fountains more popular than ever with homeowners dealing with the stresses of modern life, including the economy and the need

S

to hold on to and improve the homes they have.

The demand for fountains has led to the widespread availability of traditional designs, and some inspired modern creations by enterprising fountain makers.

“Our fountain category continues to grow,” says designer Peter Cilio, creative director of Campania International, a purveyor of garden accessories.

“Customers want cast stone fountains, glazed, terra cotta and even lightweight — all types of fountains to bring the sight and sound of water into the garden in an easy, lowmaintenance way.”

Jon Carloftis, renowned garden designer, agrees.

“Water in the garden is an

essential element,” he says.

“Adding a fountain to your garden, even a small fountain, is a great investment.”

Here are some simple guidelines from the experts to help you choose the perfect fountain for your garden space:

from traditional European designs to more modern Zen-inspired pieces.

Carloftis reminds homeowners to keep proportion in mind. “It is everything in the garden,” he says.

“Choose a fountain that will fit and feel good. And if you go big, be sure to keep it simple.”

Considerr yourr space Whether it graces a patio or the landscape, a freestanding fountain can be a

mesmerizing focal point.

The size of the fountain that you choose will depend on the size of your garden space.

“You could have a 4-by6-foot pocket garden and put a small, beautiful fountain at the end, and you’ve really made an incredible statement,” says Carloftis.

Although fountains can take center stage in the landscape, you might also consider nestling your fountain in a secluded cor-

ner of your garden. Tucked away among the plantings, the fountain will not distract from the overall composition.

What’ss yourr desired d out-come?? Dramatic c orr Zen? If creating a highly dramatic effect is your desire, the classic choice is a larger two or three-tiered fountain as a focal point for your landscape. Carloftis SEE PAGE 12

What’ss yourr style?

The most important consideration to keep in mind when choosing the right fountain is the overall style of your home and garden.

“People who love a beautiful garden are becoming more experienced and comfortable with their own styles and tastes outside,” says Cilio.

“Whether you have an urban, contemporary or country garden, the fountain should be compatible with your personal style and the aesthetics of your house and garden.”

Today’s selection of fountains appeals to the broadest of palates, with choices available ranging

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House plants: A hip new niche

reat as a gift or home decor, indoor plants are making a comeback as the coolest new trend in gardening.

Cultivate, collect and even clean interior air with them.

Here are five smart ways to feature indoor plants for fabulous effects:

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1.. Greatt gifts With spring holidays right around the corner, skip a short-lived, purchased bouquet and give a gift that will continue to blossom well beyond the special occasion. It is easy to find beautiful indoor plants with eyecatching blooms like anthurium, bromeliads, amaryllis and hibiscus.

For an inspired idea, give a living topiary shaped like a heart, or a beautiful living orchid — which can bloom for several months — instead of a mundane marketplace arrangement.

Plants also make great hostess gifts, housewarming presents and get-well tokens. Give the gift of green and share a live plant with someone this holiday.

2.. Terrariums Invented in Victorian England and popularized in the 1970s for their “kitschy” appeal, terrariums are fun micro-climates that can be both decorative and entertaining for kids and adults.

Terrariums are generally enclosed in glass and can be planted inside anything, from brandy snifters and fish bowls, to large, upscale stainedglass containers. With terrariums regaining popularity, experienced gardeners and novices alike are experimenting with new ideas, plants and vessels. To create a

miniature garden under glass, simply start with a few small-scale plants (mosses, liverwort or carnivorous plants like the Venus flytrap). Plant inside a mason jar and add rocks, sticks or tiny figures to set the scene.

3.. Succulentt gardens Succulent gardens are rapidly becoming the cool, low-maintenance way to bring plants inside. Nurseries and retailers nationwide are offering unique combinations of these interesting plants in assorted dishes and planters. Or, try creating your own succulent

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HAWAIIRENOVATION dish garden in a welldrained bowl, dish or pot by choosing a variety of species that have the same growing requirements. Fill the planter with a specialized potting mix like Miracle-Gro Cactus Palm & Citrus Soil, formulated for slowgrowing plants that require fast-draining soil.

Obtain great results with very little watering or care. For a more decorative interpretation, plant a living picture by incorporating different varieties of succulents together in one box that, once root systems are established, the container can work as decor in your home. These gardens are not only beautiful, but also a creative way to fill empty wall space, while reaping the benefits of an indoor plant. Feed your living picture with Miracle-Gro Liquid Cactus Food for all jade, aloe, cacti and succulents.

4.. Hanging g plants Have little floor space, shelf space, or window ledges to spare? No problem. You can still reap the benefits of indoor plants by hanging plants from hooks on walls or ceilings. Take care to firmly anchor into ceiling joists or wall studs. Many pots, planters and baskets are made just for hanging and will allow the opportunity to hang new greenery anywhere. Take caution not to hang plants directly over a heat vent or too close to drafty windows or doors. Choose from a

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5.. Mounte ed plants What are “mounted” plants? Plants requiring little or no soil for nutrients and growth are simply mounted onto bark, wood, cork, or are hung up by wire. Air plants, also known as Tillandsia and staghorn ferns, are interesting and unique plants that can be mounted and hung on walls, from ceilings or nearly anywhere that would protect their roots from getting wet. These unusual plants don't require soil because they take in

nourishment and water through their leaves. In their natural tropical settings, these plants can be found attached high up in trees. These plants are sure to draw attention and make great conversation starters. Some varieties of orchids do well mounted and make a beautiful, unique addition to any home.

Whatever your reason for incorporating plants indoors, make the experience enjoyable. Take advantage of both the air purification features of indoor plants as well as their exquisite beauty.

Experiment with different ways to grow plants.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION Fantastic Fountains

FROM PAGE 10

suggests Campania’s elegant Newport Fountain, which is a beautiful tiered composition made of cast stone with a lightweight basin for better maneuverability.

If you want something Zen, look for a more soothing effect in water gently cascading over a cast stone ball. Discover the allure of dancing water from a fountain lit at night, while you entertain on the patio or deck.

Look for freestanding wall fountains, which include lighting components for dramatic nighttime illumination.

much maintenance as larger fountains. And remember to protect your fountain in winter with a water resistant cover to prolong its life.

Whether simple or ornate, you can create your own private oasis by

introducing your own fountain of youth into your landscape or garden.

To view Campania International’s wide selection of cast stone, glazed and lightweight fountains, visit campaniainternation al.com.

The Basics of Photovoltaics FROM PAGE 6

that holds the modules. We are seeing installations where they have been installed with insufficient attachments to structures.

Each attachment needs to be flashed properly so that the roof does not leak. The construction should meet the IBC and should be test-

Low w orr high h maintenance Keeping your fountain clean and free of debris to prevent algae growth and clogging is something to consider when purchasing a fountain. Smaller fountains don't require as

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ed construction. Ask for documentation that provides you with a sense of comfort that the system is not being just slapped on your roof.

Finally, be wary of any sales talk that promotes trying to manipulate the state tax code by giving you credits you do not deserve.

If you have questions about the tax code and solar, go to the state of Hawaii Department of Taxation website to read the information on renewable energy tax credits.

For more information on Pacific Islands Construction, call 841-7756 or e-mail pic05@hawaii.rr.com.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

Tips re lower real estate values keeping you in your current home — even though you were hoping to upgrade? Or, maybe you can’t bear the thought of boxing up all your belongings to move? You’re not alone.

More homeowners are staying in their current homes, but remodeling with the idea of improving their quality of life and adding more “live-in value,” according to recent research from Consumer Reports.

A

for turning your current residence into a ‘Home Sweet Home’

No matter what your reason for staying put, you don’t have to move to get the home of your dreams — just make a few home improvements.

Ooh h laa laa kitchen Today's kitchens are no longer a place to simply cook and eat. Your kitchen is the “real” living room — for living, working and entertaining — and the ideal room to improve for added enjoyment.

One project to improve your home and

“live-in value” is installing a multilevel kitchen island. Not only does this provide an extra work area, but also an informal place for entertaining guests.

Central island cooktops and sinks are another option, keeping cooking and clean-up areas within easy reach.

Tying the overall look of the kitchen together will also help to make a style statement you can live with for years to come. Upgrading to stainless steel appliances is a common choice, especially with the latest technologies — such as built-in flat screen televisions or computers on refrigerators — all with a beautiful high-end finish.

Fashionable e faucets Just think of how much time you spend at the sink, from rinsing fruits and vegetables to filling pots and washing hands and dishes. So why not update this kitchen focal point with a new functional and fashionable faucet?

High-arc models with pullout spouts are the most ideal since they allow ample room to fill or clean large pots and pans. Models with multifunction sprays are helpful when washing delicate fruits.

Once you’ve found a model with these useful features, don’t forget about style. Designer finishes, such as stainless steel will give your kitchen a professional look. And, for a designer look that maintains the

beauty and brilliance of the faucet’s finish in between cleanings, try Moen’s Renzo pullout kitchen faucet with Spot Resist Stainless finish.

This unique finish does just what it says — resists fingerprints and water spots. Moen’s Renzo kitchen faucet is available at Lowe’s.

Storage e space e explosion No matter the square footage of your home, accumulating belongings over the years contributes to a lack of storage space. Try to solve this issue by first purging items that you haven't used within the past six months. Next, you can organize your necessities with a variety of storage systems — from drawer organizers to storage bins. And, if it seems like a task that you can't handle on your own, hire a company that specializes in organization, such as Closet World, to create a custom-designed solution.

Spa-tacular,, se ensible e baths Today’s baths have evolved from a task-oriented room to become a private spa. Luckily it’s simple to turn your bath into a private sanctuary.

To start, update your current showerhead with a more luxurious and functional design. If you prefer a powerful, fullbody spray, perhaps you'd like a rainshower showerhead. Or, if you like options, try a multifunction version that allows you to switch

from a relaxing wide spray to an invigorating concentrated spray — or somewhere in the middle. You can find a variety of designs and finishes at your local home improvement store, such as Lowe's.

And, as in the kitchen, the faucet is a focal point in the small space.

Update your current faucet with a new designer style and finish, and with water-saving benefits. Faucets

account for approximately 15 percent of indoor household water use — more than 1 trillion gallons across the U.S. each year — so once you've found the perfect look, be sure that you choose one that is certified to meet WaterSense criteria.

With these few home improvements you can start recouping your “live-in value” and make your current residence a home sweet home.

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HAWAIIRENOVATION Worth your while to

Homeownership

Tile

Can Bring Big Savings at Tax Time

FROM PAGE 5

FROM PAGE 4

which means that the color also goes all the way through. Porcelain is a great choice for so many different projects!

If you are now planning to remodel your kitchen or bathroom, there is no better time to budget for tile.

With all the upheaval of installing a new bathroom suite or new kitchen cabinets, the access provided to you or your contractor after taking out all of the old — before putting in the new — is an excellent opportunity to create the floor of your dreams with the tile of your choice.

Tiles are used in an almost infinite number of ways, and you don’t have to consider yourself wealthy to own them. In commercial buildings, where both beauty and

durability are considerations, tiles will be found, particularly in lobby areas and restrooms.

There are few modern houses in the United States that don’t include a tiled bathroom or two, and fast food restaurants wouldn’t be quite the same without their quarry tile floors. Tiles also are the choice of industry, where walls and floors must resist chemicals. And the

Space Shuttle never leaves Earth without its protective jacket of high-tech, heat-resistant tiles.

If you are looking for a tough, durable, attractive floor investment that is easy to maintain and clean, that will always look good, tile is a great option.

There is no wood to polish, no stains to try to remove and no bugs that can burrow into the tile like carpets. In fact, tiles

are a great solution for anyone with allergies.

Hawaii Hardwood Flooring has a wide selection of tile options.

Depending on your needs, wants or design concepts , Hawaii Hardwood Flooring can help you select the perfect tile for your home or business.

Call us at 842-7755 or visit the company showroom at 306 Kalihi St. in Honolulu.

able income.

Even homeowners who don’t use the home as their principal residence and rent it out may be able enjoy some tax benefits, including interest and depreciation deductions.

Buying a home offers tax savings that can add up to tens of thousands of dollars over several years.

Homeowners rely on the mortgage interest deduction each year to help offset the costs of homeownership, and prospective buyers take the deduction into consideration when choosing homeownership over renting.

But the mortgage interest deduction, which has been included in the tax code for about 100 years, is in danger. A national deficit commission has

proposed reducing or eliminating the deduction as part of a restructuring of the tax code.

Find out more about the threat to the mortgage interest deduction, and read “The Tax Benefits of Homeownership,” a study from economists at the National Association of Home Builders that provides specific examples of savings for a variety of income levels and ownership situations, at SaveMyMortgageInterest Deduction.com.

Contact the Building Industry Association of Hawaii at info@biahawaii .org to find out about homeownership opportunities in Hawaii.

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

I Want to see your business featured in Renovations or have any questions on how we can help your compay grow, please contact Darwin Rogers at

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HAWAIIRENOVATION

Cast-iron comeback: Time-honored fixture material gets modern design treatments

skillet hidden away in a cabinet, or some other small piece of cookware — that’s about all the cast iron you'll find in most modern homes. In the early 1900s, iron was a material of choice not just for cookware, but for many other essential items throughout the house: A skillet on the stovetop, sinks and bathtubs, and fences that decorated and defined the front yard. Even some buildings were made of iron. But as lighter, rust-resistant materials became available, iron fell by the wayside as a material in homes.

Fast forward to today, and a new generation of design-savvy homeowners is rediscovering the beauty, durability and usefulness of cast-iron in kitchens and bathrooms. A handful of enterprising manufacturers are reinventing the look, design and appeal of cast iron.

If the concept of cast iron in kitchen and bath

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Call for a Free Consultation

630-6741 or 285-3663 Lic# BC-29228

fixtures is new to you, consider the material’s advantages: • Durable. Enameled cast iron is especially durable, combining the longevity and dent-resistance of cast iron with the rust-proof beauty of enamel.

• Customizable. Castiron sinks and bathtubs add instant elegance to a space.

And with more than 20 colors to choose from, it's easy to create a customized look to reflect personal style.

• Eco-friendly. Some cast-iron products, like those made by bath design pioneer Kohler, have a “green” side. Kohler manufactures its cast iron from 83 percent recycled materials.

These three cast-iron fixtures have regained popularity — and reclaimed cast iron's reputation as a material of choice — in American homes:

1.. Kitchen n sinks The kitchen sink plays host to a handful of hardworking activities in the heart of the home — whether it’s cleaning up from holiday feasts or serving as a baby bathing spot.

Today’s Kohler’s Lawnfield and Wheatland cast-iron kitchen sinks emphasize design with an ideal balance between form and function at an attractive price. Singlebasin sinks reflect historical design, and double basin cast-iron sinks offer a modern convenience.

You’ll find a variety of color choices, as well as under-counter and selfrimming options.

2.. Bathroom m sinks Whether it’s the focal point in a petite powder room or coupled in a master suite’s double vanity, bathroom sinks have a tall bill to fill — homeowners require good looks and durability, which today’s enameled cast-iron bathroom sinks can provide.

Enameling technology makes it possible to have a cast-iron sink in an array of vibrant new colors beyond your grandparents’ classic white claw-foot tub.

Kohler’s Tides bathroom sink comes in more than 20 colors, and its self-rimming design makes it easy to

install. With a cost well below $200, it’s price-competitive with sinks constructed from acrylic or fiberglass.

3.. Bathtubs The first cast-iron baths were free-standing models — a design so ubiquitous that many Americans still associate it with cast iron.

When Kohler introduced the built-in bathtub in the early 1900s, the style quickly became the design of choice for American homeowners and remains the most popular style today.

Now, you can find castiron bathtubs that offer the convenience and functionality of the built-in style, along with the elegance and durability of enameled cast iron. For those who crave design variety, drop in/undermount and freestanding styles are also available in cast iron. You can even find styles that offer massaging water jets and bubbles.

You may fondly recall your grandparents’ cast iron, but modern design and a vibrant array of colors have today’s homeowners falling in love with cast iron’s durability and convenience all over again and enjoying it for years to come — just as other homeowners have before them.

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BC-16446 FEB. 27, 2011 | HAWAII RENOVATION | 15

HAWAIIRENOVATION

A Name to Trust Hua Xia Construction delivers on its promise of performing quality work

I

t would be difficult to find a custom builder that offers the type of client-to-customer attention that comes from working with Hua Xia Construction LLC. Owner Xiang Feng Cao and his son, Andy, have built and maintained an outstanding reputation for quality construction that spans 20 years. This father-son team is known for its dedicated, hands-on approach — from simple renovations to multimillion dollar, ground-up

development of custom projects. Clients are consistently impressed with the personal attention paid to the smallest details.

The company sticks by its motto, “Quality only happens when you care enough to do your very best.” Hua Xia Construction ensures that each and every client is given as much time as needed to deliver an outstanding custombuilt product, and it’s no surprise that much of the company’s business

16 | HAWAII RENOVATION | FEB. 27, 2011

comes from referrals.

In fact, Hua Xia Construction prides itself on the fact that most of its business comes through personal relationships.

Hua Xia Construction workers bring their knowledge and master craftsmanship to each project to ensure that it is a success. Whether you are planning to build a retail store or private residence, you can be certain of receiving the highest quality for your investment.

Your Residential Home Builder At Hua Xia Construction, clients are always asked questions, including, “How do you envision your completed project?”

By asking the right questions and working through the details, company workers help clients realize their vision. Hua

Xia Construction’s staff is dedicated to building homes from the ground up or the inside out. From single family homes to condominiums, no project is too big or too small.

Your Commercial Building Solution The company is dedicated to building your

commercial projects as well. Commercial building solutions range from store buildouts in Makiki, to restaurants and retail stores developed on Maui.

For more information, contact Hua Xia Construction at 636-1888 or visit the company website at huaxiaconst ruction.com.

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