Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Kitchen Renovation in Waikoloa Village
Expanding Business to the South and East
Over the last 4 years I have completed nearly 100 projects which geographically have predominately been on the west side of Hawaii county. I have done a few projects towards Ocean View and Pahala and have decided that I would enjoy going into this area to work.
I have worked in Hawi and Honokaa and while it is rather far from Captain Cook where I base my operations I know look forward to traveling island wide to provide services to clients in need of remodeling, renovation or repairs, focusing on kitchens, baths, windows and doors.
I have worked in Hawi and Honokaa and while it is rather far from Captain Cook where I base my operations I know look forward to traveling island wide to provide services to clients in need of remodeling, renovation or repairs, focusing on kitchens, baths, windows and doors.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Getting back to Work
I have just returned from California and a visit with family for Thanksgiving.
Now I must turn to following up on past projects that need attention as well as looking towards new jobs that have crossed my desk.
Today I am picking up some special order glass for a project that the customer wants for some large windows that do not currently meet code.
The code requires all glazing that is withing 18" of a walking surface or within 12" of a door to be tempered. This home was built in 1980, and it seems as if that particular part of the code was not being enforced at the time. It may have to do with availability of materials at the time but probably more due to lack of knowledge on the contractor or inspector involved. I encounter this type of thing quite a bit.
Another common safety violation is using a hollow core door between living area and a garage.
this door must be a 1 hour fire door with self closing hinges. Also enclosed garages must have sloped floors. I can go on but there have been so many of these types of non compliant issue over the years that it would get boring.
Later I am looking at modifying some recently installed kitchen cabinets in order for a larger refrigerator to fit. Then I am checking out a project where the client wants a new patio door.
I can post the details of those projects later as the may prove helpful to anyone that is contemplating a similar project.
Feel free to post questions about your projects and I will do my best to assist you.
Now I must turn to following up on past projects that need attention as well as looking towards new jobs that have crossed my desk.
Today I am picking up some special order glass for a project that the customer wants for some large windows that do not currently meet code.
The code requires all glazing that is withing 18" of a walking surface or within 12" of a door to be tempered. This home was built in 1980, and it seems as if that particular part of the code was not being enforced at the time. It may have to do with availability of materials at the time but probably more due to lack of knowledge on the contractor or inspector involved. I encounter this type of thing quite a bit.
Another common safety violation is using a hollow core door between living area and a garage.
this door must be a 1 hour fire door with self closing hinges. Also enclosed garages must have sloped floors. I can go on but there have been so many of these types of non compliant issue over the years that it would get boring.
Later I am looking at modifying some recently installed kitchen cabinets in order for a larger refrigerator to fit. Then I am checking out a project where the client wants a new patio door.
I can post the details of those projects later as the may prove helpful to anyone that is contemplating a similar project.
Feel free to post questions about your projects and I will do my best to assist you.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Locations of Projects (updated)
View Larger Map
Red placemarks indicate Blogged projects
Blue placemarks are other project to be blogged soon
Custom Made Hickory Cabinets
This is a kitchen we just finished in Captain Cook off of Middle Keei Rd. We custom built the Hckory cabinets at my home shop. Many of the components were pre made at the shop of an associate in Corvallis, Oregon.we made the doors and drawers as well a some of the trim items and hardware off island because of the greater availability of those items and better pricing as well as the controlled environment that the Oregon shop offers.
We built the boxes themselves and assembled the pieces at my home shop which is mostly outdoors and under canopies.We also applies the spray on lacquer finish here. We had excellent success doing this as our climate is great for applying lacquer.
You might notice that we construct large boxes rather than small boxes you would get at Lowes or Home Depot. This saves on material and makes installation go quicker. They are heavier and rquire two people to install.
This is the kitchen before picture. the cabinets were 25 year old plywood and particle board built in place. The client did their own demolition.In addition to the cabinets we made the window above the sink larger, changed the location of the gas stove, added some lighting above the stove and ran a new water line for the icemaker.
I retruned after 1 month to ,make some adjustments to the cabinet door as the had climatized to the new environment and required a little adjustment to close properly.
I retruned after 1 month to ,make some adjustments to the cabinet door as the had climatized to the new environment and required a little adjustment to close properly.
we think we saved the client considerable expense, working with their budget and design ideas this job was around $11,000.00
Friday, September 17, 2010
Coffee Shack Makeover in Kainaliu.
This new kitchen is in a completely remodeled coffee shack that was built in 1912.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Very Small Condo Kitchen
This is the end result on my latest project.
As you can see it isa very small kitchen.It is in a condo in Waikoloa village.
The old cabinetry was particle board painted several times and was just really falling apart.
I recycled a microwave from another project.Many times I have appliances from other projects that are too good to throw away or recycle for scrap. I try to reuse or donate them whenever i can.
The client was on a really tight budget of $6,000.00.
Our original bid came in a several hundred dollars over budget, so we made a few changes and we were able to do the job on budget.
We reused the original sink which was still in good condition. A more affordable new faucet was selected. The configuration of the cabinetry was
changed a little and the garbage disposal was still servicable. By donating the microwave we were able to get the job and meet the clients expectations. In this tough economy it really pays to be creative in your approach and flexible on our pricing so anyone considering some improments on a tight budget has a chance at a nice new kitchen.
To get an idea of the time frame for a project like this, our work schedule was as follows:
Cabinets were delivered by Home Depot on a Tuesday morning. I began removal of old cabinetry on the same day. I was able to load all the old materials and debris on my truck and take to the landfill any unsalvageable materials and return and begin the installation of the upper cabinetry and verify layouts fo rthe next day. On Wednesday I was able to complete the installation of all the cabinetry. Completion of adjustments and trim details were done on Thursday and the countertop contractor was able to make a template for the new Corian countertops. The following Wednesday the countertops were installed and the sink was installed. So as you can see, substantial start and completion were achieved in just three days and a week later everything was 100% complete and usable.
we try to disrupt your routine and lives as little as possible.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Before and After
On the left is a photo of a project that was taken after the removal of the old cabinetry and a section of wall. The walls are CMU or concrete block, commonly called hollow tile here in Hawaii.
To the right is a picture taken after the new kitchen has been completed.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
New EPA lead paint law went into effect April 22, 2010
If you are considering remodel work, you should prepare for a new EPA regulation that became effective April 22. The Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) Rule addresses work performed in housing and child-occupied facilities built before 1978. If you disturb a surface area containing lead-based paint in a pre-1978 building, the EPA requires you use a LRRP certified conttractor who uses specific work practices that prevent lead contamination.
Common construction, renovation and maintenance activities, such as grinding, sanding, drilling and cutting, can create hazardous levels of dust. Even small amounts can harm you, your family and your neighbors.
Here is some of the basic information as provided by the EPA regarding what you should know before you begin that next project. In my opinion these rules will change the face of remodeling older homes and create a more disciplined and professional contractor that will rise above the uninformed and non conforming professional.
It should be noted that non compliance will result in fines starting at $37,500.00 per violation.
the EPA is serious about this and they wield a pwerful stick to insure enforcement.
As a licensed, bonded and insured general contractor that has 30 eperience in this profession I have undergone the training required to conform with this new law and can assist you in testing for the presence of lead paint and consult with you on how to comply if lead is found in the areas you are considering remodeling.
Lead Poisoning
The federal government banned lead-based paint from housing in 1978. Up to that point, the more lead there was in a can of paint, the higher its quality and price. Lead makes paint easier to apply and quicker to dry while inhibiting rust, mold and mildew.
Today, we know lead is an extremely toxic metal that causes many health problems. Like asbestos, there is no safe level of lead exposure. Lead can enter the body through breathing or swallowing lead dust. It accumulates, eventually storing itself in organs, tissue and bones where it can cause irreversible damage.
Lead levels in blood thought to be safe 20 years ago are now considered dangerous. With such small amounts confirmed to cause health problems in millions of adults and children, the regulatory focus is now on routine renovation and maintenance activities that disturb surfaces covered in lead-based paint.
Certified Renovator Course
An individual can become RRP certified by successfully completing a one-day EPA-accredited course. The course teaches how to comply with the RRP Rule by making practical changes in the way work is done.
When working on a pre-1978 home or child-occupied facility, it is required that at least one RRP-certified renovator be on the job. Willfully violating the RRP Rule by employing prohibited work practices can result in fines up to $37,500.
Test the Paint
The RRP rule requires the contractor test each painted surface that will be disturbed during the job to determine if the paint contains lead. If the contractor resides outside of California, he will have to test the paint by using an EPA-approved test kit.
A California-based contractor must assume that any structure built before 1978 contains lead, so testing as specified by the EPA is not necessary. Contractors outside of California may also elect to skip the testing process and assume that surfaces contain lead-based paint.
This decision is understandable, since 66 percent of all homes and apartments built between 1940 and 1960 contain this dangerous material; 25 percent of homes and apartments built from 1960 to 1978 contain lead-based paint as well.
Advise Your Customers
Before beginning a job in a home, child-care facility or school built before 1978, certain EPA materials must be made available to the homeowner or building manager. The contractor is also responsible for explaining the steps that will be taken to protect the residents or building occupants from any exposure to lead dust.
Setting Up a Lead-Safe Work Site
Any contractor performing remediation work is familiar with the requirements for creating a lead-safe work area:
● The work area must be contained or separated from other parts of the building using heavy plastic sheeting.
● Objects that cannot be moved must be covered and sealed with poly as well.
● Entry doors and HVAC vents must be closed and sealed, and there are the warning signs to post, etc.
● Workers must have the appropriate personal protective equipment, i.e. clothing and respiratory protection.
Doing the Job
Common work practices in construction, renovation, restoration and demolition work create serious dust problems. Electric power tools such as drills, sanders, grinders, circular saws, reciprocating saws and scrapers all raise dust particles above OSHA’s Permissible Exposure Limit or “PEL” levels.
These power tools are prohibited for jobs covered by the RRP Rule.
To contain dust safely under RRP, you must use “ventilated” power tools connected to a HEPA vacuum. These specialized power tools are designed for dust control. They have shrouds that capture the dust when it’s at its most friable and transfers it under negative pressure to a HEPA vacuum.
New dust catching devices for drilling are beginning to appear on the market. There are plastic bubbles that stick on the surface and allow it to be drilled through it as it captures the dust.
A simple method for accomplishing the same result is to spray shaving cream on the wall and drill through it. The shaving cream will capture most of the dust and it’s easy to wipe away and dispose.
Electric power tools certainly create the most friable and dangerous dust. However, there are lead-safe practices that apply to non-electric or manual tools, which can also generate huge amounts of dust. For example, in demolition work, prying and pulling materials or components apart is a dustless alternative to pounding and hammering.
Other traditional work practices prohibited by the RRP Rule include planing, needle gunning, or blasting power tools, unless they are connected to a HEPA vacuum. Open flame burning, torching and heat gunning are also prohibited since it creates dangerous fumes and small lead particles that settle on surfaces and are difficult to pick up.
Clean-Up
With the exception of floors, the protocol for clean-up following a remediation job is identical for lead dust. The first step is to collect all the dust and debris in heavy mil plastic and seal it tight. Once the poly is removed, any objects and all non-floor surfaces should be cleaned with a HEPA vacuum or damp disposable wiping cloths.
Remember, lead is very toxic and it only takes a very small amount to poison you. Lead dust particles can remain on clothes, shoes hands and hair. HEPA vacuums should be used to clean work clothes and shoes before leaving the work area.
Do not bring lead-based paint dust home and expose your family to this poisonous material.
The last step is to clean the floor. Lead is a very dense, heavy metal so it tends to fall on the floor, and it is difficult to pick up. A floor that looks spotless may still contain lead dust, and normal cleaning methods are simply not sufficient to get the job done.
Sweeping is not effective and a standard vacuum may actually cause a more widespread exposure. Uncarpeted floors should be wet-mopped using a dual bucket system.
For cleaning carpeted floors, the RRP Rule is very specific. The only acceptable method is to use a HEPA vacuum connected to a powered brush roll.
Floor cleaning is critical because children play on floors where they can get the dangerous dust on their hands, toys and other objects they put in their mouths. Childhood lead poisoning is considered a major environmental health problem in the U.S. Children with unsafe levels of lead have damaged neural pathways in the brain causing learning and behavior disorders.
It is not by coincidence that approximately half of the children in special education today have higher-than-normal blood lead levels.
Cleaning Verification
After cleaning and a visual inspection, a certified renovator must perform a cleaning verification. The cleaning verification starts with a wipe down, using disposable cleaning cloths for every window and countertop.
Uncarpeted floors are wiped clean using a Swiffer mop. Each “used” wipe or Swiffer cleaning cloth must be compared visually to sample images printed on an EPA Post-Renovation Cleaning Verification Card.
A certified renovator can use the EPA Post-Renovation Cleaning Verification Card to determine whether dust, debris, or residues still exist after cleaning, and if a re-cleaning is required.
Waste Disposal
Waste disposal for materials containing lead is similar to remediation of materials containing mold. All waste and debris should be disposed in accordance with federal, state and local regulations.
Waste and debris should be placed in heavy mil plastic bags. Use a gooseneck seal and HEPA-vacuum the outside of the bag before it is removed from the work area. Examples of RRP waste include plastic sheeting; paint chips; drywall; wipes; mop heads; protective clothing; used respirators; gloves and architectural materials.
For more information on the RRP Rule and upcoming lead requirements, contact the National Lead Information Center at (800) 424-LEAD (5323) or visit EPA’s website at www.epa.gov/lead.
Common construction, renovation and maintenance activities, such as grinding, sanding, drilling and cutting, can create hazardous levels of dust. Even small amounts can harm you, your family and your neighbors.
Here is some of the basic information as provided by the EPA regarding what you should know before you begin that next project. In my opinion these rules will change the face of remodeling older homes and create a more disciplined and professional contractor that will rise above the uninformed and non conforming professional.
It should be noted that non compliance will result in fines starting at $37,500.00 per violation.
the EPA is serious about this and they wield a pwerful stick to insure enforcement.
As a licensed, bonded and insured general contractor that has 30 eperience in this profession I have undergone the training required to conform with this new law and can assist you in testing for the presence of lead paint and consult with you on how to comply if lead is found in the areas you are considering remodeling.
Lead Poisoning
The federal government banned lead-based paint from housing in 1978. Up to that point, the more lead there was in a can of paint, the higher its quality and price. Lead makes paint easier to apply and quicker to dry while inhibiting rust, mold and mildew.
Today, we know lead is an extremely toxic metal that causes many health problems. Like asbestos, there is no safe level of lead exposure. Lead can enter the body through breathing or swallowing lead dust. It accumulates, eventually storing itself in organs, tissue and bones where it can cause irreversible damage.
Lead levels in blood thought to be safe 20 years ago are now considered dangerous. With such small amounts confirmed to cause health problems in millions of adults and children, the regulatory focus is now on routine renovation and maintenance activities that disturb surfaces covered in lead-based paint.
Certified Renovator Course
An individual can become RRP certified by successfully completing a one-day EPA-accredited course. The course teaches how to comply with the RRP Rule by making practical changes in the way work is done.
When working on a pre-1978 home or child-occupied facility, it is required that at least one RRP-certified renovator be on the job. Willfully violating the RRP Rule by employing prohibited work practices can result in fines up to $37,500.
Test the Paint
The RRP rule requires the contractor test each painted surface that will be disturbed during the job to determine if the paint contains lead. If the contractor resides outside of California, he will have to test the paint by using an EPA-approved test kit.
A California-based contractor must assume that any structure built before 1978 contains lead, so testing as specified by the EPA is not necessary. Contractors outside of California may also elect to skip the testing process and assume that surfaces contain lead-based paint.
This decision is understandable, since 66 percent of all homes and apartments built between 1940 and 1960 contain this dangerous material; 25 percent of homes and apartments built from 1960 to 1978 contain lead-based paint as well.
Advise Your Customers
Before beginning a job in a home, child-care facility or school built before 1978, certain EPA materials must be made available to the homeowner or building manager. The contractor is also responsible for explaining the steps that will be taken to protect the residents or building occupants from any exposure to lead dust.
Setting Up a Lead-Safe Work Site
Any contractor performing remediation work is familiar with the requirements for creating a lead-safe work area:
● The work area must be contained or separated from other parts of the building using heavy plastic sheeting.
● Objects that cannot be moved must be covered and sealed with poly as well.
● Entry doors and HVAC vents must be closed and sealed, and there are the warning signs to post, etc.
● Workers must have the appropriate personal protective equipment, i.e. clothing and respiratory protection.
Doing the Job
Common work practices in construction, renovation, restoration and demolition work create serious dust problems. Electric power tools such as drills, sanders, grinders, circular saws, reciprocating saws and scrapers all raise dust particles above OSHA’s Permissible Exposure Limit or “PEL” levels.
These power tools are prohibited for jobs covered by the RRP Rule.
To contain dust safely under RRP, you must use “ventilated” power tools connected to a HEPA vacuum. These specialized power tools are designed for dust control. They have shrouds that capture the dust when it’s at its most friable and transfers it under negative pressure to a HEPA vacuum.
New dust catching devices for drilling are beginning to appear on the market. There are plastic bubbles that stick on the surface and allow it to be drilled through it as it captures the dust.
A simple method for accomplishing the same result is to spray shaving cream on the wall and drill through it. The shaving cream will capture most of the dust and it’s easy to wipe away and dispose.
Electric power tools certainly create the most friable and dangerous dust. However, there are lead-safe practices that apply to non-electric or manual tools, which can also generate huge amounts of dust. For example, in demolition work, prying and pulling materials or components apart is a dustless alternative to pounding and hammering.
Other traditional work practices prohibited by the RRP Rule include planing, needle gunning, or blasting power tools, unless they are connected to a HEPA vacuum. Open flame burning, torching and heat gunning are also prohibited since it creates dangerous fumes and small lead particles that settle on surfaces and are difficult to pick up.
Clean-Up
With the exception of floors, the protocol for clean-up following a remediation job is identical for lead dust. The first step is to collect all the dust and debris in heavy mil plastic and seal it tight. Once the poly is removed, any objects and all non-floor surfaces should be cleaned with a HEPA vacuum or damp disposable wiping cloths.
Remember, lead is very toxic and it only takes a very small amount to poison you. Lead dust particles can remain on clothes, shoes hands and hair. HEPA vacuums should be used to clean work clothes and shoes before leaving the work area.
Do not bring lead-based paint dust home and expose your family to this poisonous material.
The last step is to clean the floor. Lead is a very dense, heavy metal so it tends to fall on the floor, and it is difficult to pick up. A floor that looks spotless may still contain lead dust, and normal cleaning methods are simply not sufficient to get the job done.
Sweeping is not effective and a standard vacuum may actually cause a more widespread exposure. Uncarpeted floors should be wet-mopped using a dual bucket system.
For cleaning carpeted floors, the RRP Rule is very specific. The only acceptable method is to use a HEPA vacuum connected to a powered brush roll.
Floor cleaning is critical because children play on floors where they can get the dangerous dust on their hands, toys and other objects they put in their mouths. Childhood lead poisoning is considered a major environmental health problem in the U.S. Children with unsafe levels of lead have damaged neural pathways in the brain causing learning and behavior disorders.
It is not by coincidence that approximately half of the children in special education today have higher-than-normal blood lead levels.
Cleaning Verification
After cleaning and a visual inspection, a certified renovator must perform a cleaning verification. The cleaning verification starts with a wipe down, using disposable cleaning cloths for every window and countertop.
Uncarpeted floors are wiped clean using a Swiffer mop. Each “used” wipe or Swiffer cleaning cloth must be compared visually to sample images printed on an EPA Post-Renovation Cleaning Verification Card.
A certified renovator can use the EPA Post-Renovation Cleaning Verification Card to determine whether dust, debris, or residues still exist after cleaning, and if a re-cleaning is required.
Waste Disposal
Waste disposal for materials containing lead is similar to remediation of materials containing mold. All waste and debris should be disposed in accordance with federal, state and local regulations.
Waste and debris should be placed in heavy mil plastic bags. Use a gooseneck seal and HEPA-vacuum the outside of the bag before it is removed from the work area. Examples of RRP waste include plastic sheeting; paint chips; drywall; wipes; mop heads; protective clothing; used respirators; gloves and architectural materials.
For more information on the RRP Rule and upcoming lead requirements, contact the National Lead Information Center at (800) 424-LEAD (5323) or visit EPA’s website at www.epa.gov/lead.
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