Forerunners in eco-building

Staff Reporter - Close to nature comes closest to perfection with the exceptional design and craftmanship of Pepe Construction CC, a forerunner in the eco-building concept.

Nature and the environment are incorporated into Pepe Bush Camp Builders’ designs using a combination of woods and composite products, metals, dead trees, rocks and canvas.

Decking , flooring, balustrades, staircases and other aspects of urban living as well as any game-lodge or tented camp are each regarded in their own setting with an omnipresent eye for practicality, design and functionality.

New ways of building by using sand bags instead of bricks to lighten the carbon footprint by avoiding heavy transport to remote areas are used.

Many years of camp management in a harsh desert climate has brought home the challenges faced by wooden materials in Africa. Regular maintenance of wooden decks is a necessity to make it last. Alternative materials like composite decking have been discovered and tested.

Pepe Construction CC is the Namibian distributor for Envirodeck high quality composite materials which boast a 10 year warranty on their products.

The remarkable projects in Pepe’s portfolio include Damaraland Camp, Kaudum, Mowani, Onkoshi Camp, Sneyrivier Hunting Lodge and various projects at Regenstein, Ongos and Oanob Lake.

Eco-friendly composite decking

Pepe’s partners in composite decking are Envirodeck and MoistureShield.

Envirodeck provides deck installers with eco decking materials that combine the technical performance, aesthetic value and green benefits that their projects require to consistently install quality decks.

Envirodeck proudly supplies a comprehensive range of wood plastic eco decking products and accessories, including deck lighting, garden lighting, deck cleaning and maintenance products as well as fastening systems.

It was developed through advanced total encapsulation technology. In a proprietary heat process, reclaimed wood pulp is completely encapsulated with recycled plastics, which results in a product with more vibrant, lasting colour coupled with product stability. Envirodeck eco-decking products are protected to the core and will perform from the inside out.

In addition to total encapsulation technology, Envirodeck features a new embossing technique that minimises the build-up of dirt and debris and better simulates traditional decking.

Envirodeck is affordable and requires no special tools or pre-drilling for easy installation. Furthermore, it is manufactured from 95% recycled materials – 38% from post-consumer high density polyethylene and 57% from pre-consumer wood resources and low density polyethylene.

Benefits of Envirodeck

Moisture resistance: Due to the encapsulation process used in production, composite products are less susceptible to the build-up of moisture – making Envirodeck ideal for coastal conditions.

Innovation: Proven stain, scratch, mold and fade resistance in our climate.

Insect resistant: Does not contain wood attributes that attract problem insects so it’s the perfect product for game lodge decks.

Strength: Composite decks are generally more durable than traditional wooden decks, saving contractors time and money on deck maintenance and with no associated risks of warping or cupping associated with traditional timber decks.

Low maintenance: Decks made from composite materials don’t need to be re-painted, re-oiled or re-stained, requiring only a quick sweep or wash every so often.

Comfort: Composite materials do not splinter and are non-slip, making it the perfect surface for areas around swimming pool decks as it’s completely barefoot friendly.

Eco-friendly: Wood plastic eco decking is made from 95% recycled material, contains no toxic chemicals or preservatives, and are certified green for sustainability as well as energy and water efficiency.

Colour retention: The total encapsulation technology of wood and plastic, combined with the fact that composite decking does not need to be stained or painted results in a vibrant, long-lasting colour.

Easy DIY installation: Integrated concealed clip system with grooved decking makes for a seamless finish and increases productivity. No pre-drilling is required.

Naturally beautiful: Natural wood grain texture and contemporary colours caters for every design requirement or product application.

Superior anti-slip properties: Textured surface prevents any slipping and is rated as best in industry.