Custom Build in Kona Progress Update: It's Coming Together Nicely

Continued from Part 2: Custom Build in Kona Update: “We Have a Roof!”

Yesterday our kitchen and bath designer came to the job site to measure for cabinets. The walls are framed in place, but the drywall is not. This presents a critical task to make sure your cabinets fit correctly. Just another reason we choose to work with our local building supply company. Personalized service is important in so many phases of the project. You want to have confidence in the professional who is performing important tasks like measuring custom cabinet space.

Our roof has been sheeted with LP Tech Shield Radiant Barrier then covered, or what’s called “dried in,” with a blue-colored synthetic underlayment that keeps moisture out. At the elevation our home is at (1,325′), there is really no need for A/C or heat. So these extra insulators are very helpful. Our contractor begins installing the standing seem metal roof later this week.

Windows are in, and overall, we selected Milgaurd dual glazed / Low-E (stands for low-emissivity) that allows visible light through but blocks heat-bearing and fabric-fading portions of the suns rays. They also meet Energy Star qualifications in all regions and have a great warranty. I think Milgard is a good choice for the quality and value. We are pleased with the look, size, and placement.

During the design phase, you can see how your home should look on your elevations, but seeing it in real life seems to be the best.

Our home is a plantation-style design, so we decided to go with a plank siding called “Smartside.” Excellent engineered wood product resistant to termites. It’s pre-primed, but should be completely caulked from top to bottom before painting.

Now we can get started roughing in the plumbing and electrical before drywall. Be sure to think about where you want your TV and outlets for your furniture lay-out. More on that next time.

More Information

If you have any interest in building a home in Kona, please contact me. I will share with you my personal experience, from the ground up. Follow my blog to learn more about the building dreams in Hawaii.