Hot water is something many take for granted, and is just one of the ways homeowners and consumers can save money while being conscious of the environment. That topic can be discussed with representatives from Ferguson Bath and Kitchen Gallery
Hot water is something many take for granted, and is just one of the ways homeowners and consumers can save money while being conscious of the environment.
That topic can be discussed with representatives from Ferguson Bath and Kitchen Gallery at the 16th Annual Contractors of Kaua‘i Home Show which opens Friday at the convention hall.
The expo, presented by First Hawaiian Bank, is free to the public and opens at 2:30 p.m. Friday and runs until 9 p.m. Saturday; hours are from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Sean Andrade, manager of the Kaua‘i Ferguson outlet, said that technology in both solar water heaters and tankless heaters have come a long way.
In a press release from the CAK, the sold-out expo will showcase some of the newest, improved, or state-of-the-art “green” products, materials and services available in the marketplace for both residential and commercial construction.
“Tankless heaters are not new, but with the improved technology, consumers can get more efficient hot water production,” Andrade said. “They come in both electric and propane gas models, but the gas models are the more efficient.”
One of the significant improvements in the tankless heaters is the elimination of the pilot light. This cuts down on the use of propane gas and pretty much gives the consumer hot water “on demand,” Andrade said.
Another savings comes in not needing to reheat the entire tank of water: just the amount of water that is needed.
Joining the Rinnai tankless water heater, Ferguson will also have Radco solar panels on display with representatives ready to talk about the benefits of solar water heating.
“The most obvious savings comes if your hot water is heated electrically,” Andrade said. “A solar water heater will almost cut your electric bill in half.”
Additional savings accrue by taking advantage of rebates and tax credits, Andrade said, and in the extreme, a gas tankless system can be installed as a back-up which may cost more initially, but saves the consumer by only heating the water needed.
Louisiana Pacific representatives will join RSI/Rosa’s Supply with information on techshield roof sheeting, OSB sub-floor, Soffit panels and Smart panel sidings.
A high wind resistant, termite resistant building product can be seen at Stonegate Premium Homes where Nudura Insulated Concrete Form systems will be on display.
The popularity of various hardwood and laminate flooring was obvious when Wisteria Lane opened its showroom at the corner of Hardy and Rice Streets. Builders Home Supply, dba Wisteria Lane, will bring some of their more popular lines to the show.
Ron Garlie and the staff at Puhi Paint will be on hand to discuss the Devoe Wonder Pure, zero VOC, or hypoallergenic paint products while Window Trends will have the Hunter Douglas line of non-allergenic window coverings available for inspection.,
Honsador Lumber will have their home package products, windows and cabinets on display with representatives on hand to provide information to consumers interested in the LSL lumber products, an engineered wood used in “green” or LEEDS construction.
Simpson Strong Ties said all of its steel products and ties are manufactured with a minimum 25 percent recycled content.
Additionally, the Hawai‘i Pacific Steel Framing Alliance will have professionals on hand to discuss the use of steel framing as an alternative to wood construction, especially in areas prone to high termite colonies.
Beside the displays, consumers can benefit from the free workshops which includes presentations on the new county building codes and the Planning Department’s permitting process. This workshop, led by the county’s Don Lutao and Imaikalani Aiu starts at 5 p.m. Friday.
At 6 p.m., Jeff Mira of Justin Thain Construction will discuss building or remodelling for golden years and at 7 p.m., Mike Taylor from First Hawaiian Bank will offer information on determining options to protect one’s home, investments, savings and other assets.
Saturday’s workshops will center around “Building Green” issues including building for energy efficiency, lifestyle choices and health, the use of light gauge steel framing, and how “green” can help sell houses.
There is no charge for admission on either day, and Rosie’s Lunchwagon will be on hand with a variety of items on its menu so consumers can enjoy the expo to its fullest.
The CAK was established in 1957 as a trade association of licensed contractors, suppliers and businesses affiliated with the construction industry on Kaua‘i.
