Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Innovative Solution Addresses Crown Rot in Timber Pole Retaining Walls
Auckland, 23th August, 2023 - Seasoned Landscape Structures professional, Mr. Dave Stringfield, has unveiled a pragmatic solution tailored to the needs of retaining wall builders.
Drawing on his 35 years of experience installing Pole Retaining Walls, Dave Stringfield highlights an alarming issue – crown (top of pole) rot. The vulnerability of timber pole retaining walls to top-end water ingress and the resultant degradation has spawned the creation of the Gecko Envirocap.
‘In the realm of construction and building site stabilisation, timber pole retaining walls are essential for stability. They are extremely cost effective however, my observations are increasingly noting crown rot due to water infiltration on many pole walls where no attempt has been made to maintain these walls much less protect pole tops,’ Dave Stringfield says. ‘The need for maintenance and protection is paramount to ensure the longevity of these structures, many of which are essentially never touched again once constructed.
Responding to this challenge, Dave Stringfield has designed and manufactured the New Zealand, Gecko Envirocap, a medium-density UV resistant polymer plastic product designed to shield retaining wall pole crowns from water ingress. Boasting exceptional durability and straightforward installation, the Gecko Envirocap has the potential to extend the operational life of retaining walls by protecting pole tops.
‘The Gecko Envirocap represents a measured solution to a prevalent issue," Dave Stringfield says. ‘Its design focuses on superior protection against water seepage, fungal and plant growth, effectively preventing crown rot and increasing the lifespan of retaining wall poles.’
Key Benefits of the Gecko Envirocap include:
Enhanced Protection: The Gecko Envirocap acts as a robust safeguard against water intrusion and subsequent rot, which can compromise the structural integrity of retaining wall poles.
Effortless Installation: The simple design facilitates easy installation. By cutting off the excess pole then placing the Gecko Envirocap on top of the pole before the top rail is nailed into place, it is held firmly against the pole. Additional fixing if desired is achieved with a Stainless Steel screw or Clout fitted either side of the Gecko Envirocap. Importantly, there's no need to angle-cut the tops of retaining wall poles for water run-off or retreat cut tops.
Gecko Envirocaps are manufactured in 10mm diameter increments and designed by a professional for both residential and commercial use. The GECKO ENVIROCAP provides immediate crown protection from installation onwards. This cost-effective solution marks a transformative step towards preserving the integrity and longevity of timber pole retaining walls.
ENDS:
For inquiries, further details, or interviews with Mr. Dave Stringfield, please contact: 0274936076
About Dave Stringfield:
With a history spanning over three decades founding & running Landscape Structures, Dave Stringfield's expertise has fuelled the development of the Gecko Envirocap. Dave’s commitment to addressing industry challenges has culminated in a practical solution tailored to retaining wall builders' needs.
The Gecko Envirocap is jointly marketed by Dave Stringfield’s Builders Corner Ltd Divisions - Landscape Structures and Auckland Aggregates
Note to Editors:
High-resolution images and additional information are available for download below:
