Hurricanes, floods, and tsunamis are fairly rare in Hawaii, thank goodness. “But even milder weather events can cause damage to homes,” says Malia Yee of Graham Builders. “We make it a point to design every home for durability and resilience, based on its location and environment.”
Oahu’s microclimates can differ greatly from one another, even over extremely short distances. Every coast of the island is a little different, and they all have complex wind patterns.
“That’s why each initial site visit performed by Graham Builders includes a close study of the property,” says Yee, lead designer for the award-winning Honolulu design/build firm. “Among other things, it enables us to see where trade winds come through, so we can create a design that allows airflow and cross breezes.”
Homes in high-wind areas are designed to adhere to different codes, and even built with different materials. “They’re made with beefier materials and maybe thicker walls, and hurricane-resistant windows and siding,” Yee says. “We also incorporate straps and ties, so the roof and home are connected and strengthened. If the home is near the ocean, we’ll build with concrete, cinderblocks, and rustproof materials.”
With rainforests on its Windward coast and arid plains on its Leeward side, some areas of Oahu receive more than 200 inches of rain annually, while others get less than 20. There’s similar variety in terrain and soil. Of the twelve identified soil orders in this country, ten are found in the Aloha State.
“Part of our site study includes identifying the types of soil in the area where the project is located,” says Yee. “Some areas of Oahu have heavy adobe clay content, which expands and shrinks. If the area is known for having bad soil or adobe clay, we excavate and backfill with non-expansive fill, which creates a sturdier foundation.”
Though the variance in temperatures isn’t as drastic as on the Mainland, they can change by twenty degrees or more over the course of a day in some areas of Oahu. “Insulation is important for homes in hotter areas,” Yee says. “Double-pane windows and double-wall construction help keep the coolness in.”
Last but certainly not least, homeowners should prepare for occasional visits from Hawaii’s infamous termites. “All wood should be treated to protect it from pests and moisture!” recommends Yee.
Founded in 1990, Graham Builders remains the only contractor in Hawaii honored by the Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award for Business Ethics. You’re cordially invited to attend Graham Builders’ FREE “Building Your Home for Life” seminar on Saturday, July 12, from 9-11 a.m. Register at grahambuilders.com or call 808/593-2808.