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How to Clean Teak Decking

At Teakdecking Systems, we replace many teak decks that are damaged by improper maintenance. Remarkably, many of these decks were destroyed not through neglect, but because they were cleaned too often, too thoroughly, or too aggressively. Proper cleaning prevents damage, so read on to learn from the experts how to clean teak decks.

Before & After Cleaning with ECO-Cleaners from Teak Decking Systems

RULE #1
SCRUB ACROSS THE GRAIN

Scrub wood across the grain with a soft scrubbing pad or a soft bristle brush using a gentle cleanser (like ECO-100 or ECO-300 Cleaners), then rinse well with water. Scrubbing with the grain tears teak’s soft grain from the planks, creating a rough surface with ridges in the teak. A rough, weathered deck will collect debris and trap water where mold and mildew can develop.

For large areas, the use of rotary cleaning machines with dispenser tanks and soft bristle brushes is appropriate.


Rough weathered deck with teak ridges (this deck is ready for replacement)

SANDING

Even with proper care, ridges can develop in the wood over time. When this happens, lightly sand the deck to smooth the surface. Furthermore, this will actually increase the life of the deck because a smooth surface prevents the grain from trapping dirt.



Before Sanding




After Sanding




INSPECT THE DECK AFTER CLEANING

After cleaning and flushing the deck, check its condition. Look for any areas that remain wet after the rest of the deck has dried. Wetness may indicate a spot where the caulking in a seam has broken away from the teak, or a plug is failing. If so, repair these areas immediately to prevent water from getting under the deck. Once water is under the teak, a number of consequences can occur.

NOTE: If you can’t make an immediate repair, duct tape the opening to seal it temporarily.


RULE #2
DO NOT USE TWO-PART CLEANERS
UNLESS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY

Overuse, or improper use, of two-part caustic acid cleaners, shortens the life of teak decks by eating away the teak. Only use these cleaners when everything else has FAILED. Then follow the instructions carefully for the two-part cleaner, and be sure to use personal protective equipment (PPE) to safeguard skin (hands, arms, bare feet, legs) and eyes.

The caustic cleaner will attack surrounding paint, so protect it by wetting down the surfaces before starting and continuing to flush them during the cleaning process. (This is not a 100% guarantee of no paint damage.) Additionally, remember to flush topsides below scuppers and drains to prevent damage to the paint as the deck drains down the side of the hull.

If a two-part cleaner is necessary, be sure to rinse the deck thoroughly. Any remaining cleaner will continue to “eat” the teak and surrounding surfaces. Remember – a two-part cleaner is an acid, and it is not recommended unless necessary.

RULE #3
BE CAREFUL USING CHLORINE BLEACH

Chlorine bleach will attack most caulking products (making them thick and sticky) and will damage seam integrity. However, SIS-440 Teak Deck Caulking is specially formulated for teak decks and is resistant to bleach. For SIS-440, only the top layer of the caulk (the binding layer) will be affected by bleach, creating a black “rub off.” After exposure to bleach, a light sanding of SIS-440 Caulking will restore its normal properties, and the caulking will continue to be UV and chemical resistant.

RULE #4
NEVER, NEVER, NEVER USE A PRESSURE WASHER

Teak is comprised of hard and soft wood. A pressure washer will destroy the soft wood, leaving deep ridges in the deck that will collect water and debris. The life of teak decks is significantly shortened by pressure washers. So, they should never be used.



TEAKDECKING SYSTEMS CLEANERS ARE DEVELOPED

SPECIFICALLY FOR TEAK DECKING


ECO-100 (powder) and ECO-300 (liquid) are gentle, effective cleaners developed specifically for teak decks. They are eco-friendly, acid-free cleaners designed to be thorough, yet gentle. Both the powder and liquid formulations meet the requirements of Florida’s Clean Marina Program and are MARPOL-compliant.



ECO-100 (POWDER)

This concentrated teak cleaner mixes easily with water and contains no acid, caustic sodas or phosphates. It cleans and brightens without removing the soft fibers of teak. It removes mold and mildew and is economical.




ECO-100 Powder – Mixes Easily with Water


ECO-300 (LIQUID)

This ready-to-use cleaner has the same benefits of ECO-100 but does not need to be mixed with water. It adheres to the scrubbing pad and is ready-to-use. ECO-300 has strong brightening agents that can restore teak to its original color.

USER NOTE: ECO-100 is commonly the first choice for cleaning decks. If a brighter finish is needed, then ECO-300 is used as a second step.


ECO-300 Cleans and brightens teak




Learn more about teak decking in these articles:

How to Extend the Life of Teak Decking

How to Assess Teak Decking Quality

How to Inspect Teak Deck Caulking and Seams


Watch this video on how to clean teak decking:

Cleaning Video on Facebook


QUESTIONS

941-756-0600 and press “1”

products@teakdecking.com




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How are decks made? Understanding the digitization, manufacturing and installation process of your new deck

By Anella Alcott • April 11, 2025
If you're planning to get a new deck on your boat, and you've chosen teak, a composite deck, or a cork alternative, this guide will walk you through the full process, from digitization and manufacturing to final installation so you’ll know exactly what to expect from start to finish. TEAK DECKS Digital Templating The first stage involves one of our technicians digitially templating the area using the latest in precise measuring technology. Our team digititally templates vessels all around the world. Engineering Our experienced designers are masters of creating beautiful and technically precise decks using CAD construction program, importing data provided by our digital templating team. Our designers’ exceptional ability to create visual symmetry ensures impeccable finishes and beautiful aesthetic decks. Manufacturing TDS panels are manufactured in our factory utilizing jigs that are adjusted to conform to the vessel’s shape. Teak planks of the required thickness and width are carefully hand inspected, scrutinizing each plank for grain orientation, mineral deposits, or imperfections such as a small knot. The planks are placed into the jig in such a way that the finished deck will have a uniform butt joint pattern. Creating a Watertight Barrier A phenolic or fiberglass backing is securely vacuum bonded to the teak, using our own epoxies that guarantee durability, flexibility, strength and reliability. The exceptional bonding strength, ensures your deck stands the test of time. After the epoxy cures, the newly formed panels are removed from the jig, and the seams between the planks undergo routing, cleaning, and caulking. Margin Trim Once the caulking is cured, the final step involves laying out the teak deck and laying all the margin trim. Upon completion, the finished deck undergoes a thorough quality inspection, ensuring it aligns precisely with the template. Transport & Installation The finished deck panels are placed in custom-made crates and then shipped and installed worldwide. Prior to the arrival of the new deck, the old deck is removed. Our installers inspect for any issues such as water intrusion, delamination, or corrosion on the vessel’s surface. If such issues are found, the areas are repaired before the new deck is installed. Caulking & Sanding Once the deck has been bonded to the vessel, it is time to caulk using our own proprietary, UV, and chemical-resistant caulking TDS SIS-440. After curing, the deck is then ready to be sanded. The entire deck is sanded with 36 grit to remove excess caulking, followed by 60 and 80 grit to enhance the look of the deck. COMPOSITE DECKS Digital Templating The first stage involves one of our technicians digitially templating the area using the latest in precise measuring technology. Our team digititally templates vessels all around the world. Engineering Our experienced designers are masters of creating beautiful and technically precise decks using CAD construction program, importing data provided by our digital templating team. Our designers’ exceptional ability to create visual symmetry ensures impeccable finishes and beautiful aesthetic decks. Manufacturing Every composite decking panel is custom made to perfectly fit the areas to be covered. The panels are delivered with completed seam pattern, sanded and ready to be glued down on most structural surfaces. In the case of SeaSole, the deck is installed using the “peel and stick system”. We use a combination of our TDS bedding and bonding adhesive, along with TDS two-part, flexible epoxy fitting glue, to secure the panels in place. The caulking in the seams is our TDS proprietary patented filler, an enduringly elastic, solid rubber polyurethane joint sealant. Our team will first carry out an inspection of the boat to identify the best application method for each area. Quality Control Once the caulking is cured, the final step involves laying out the composite deck and building all the margin trim. Upon completion, the finished deck undergoes a thorough quality inspection, ensuring it aligns precisely with the original template. Installation The finished deck panels are placed in custom-made crates and then shipped and installed worldwide. Prior to the arrival of the new deck, the old deck is removed. Our installers inspect for any issues such as water intrusion, delamination, or corrosion on the vessel’s surface. If such issues are found, the areas are repaired before the new deck is installed. C ORK DECKS Digital Templating The first stage involves one of our technicians digitially templating the area using the latest in precise measuring technology. Our team digititally templates vessels all around the world. Engineering Our experienced designers are masters of creating beautiful and technically precise decks using CAD construction program, importing data provided by our digitizing team. Our designers’ exceptional ability to create visual symmetry ensures impeccable finishes and beautiful aesthetic decks. Manufacturing Every cork decking panel is custom made to perfectly fit the areas to be covered. The panels are delivered with completed seam pattern, and ready to be glued down on most structural surfaces. Our team will first carry out an inspection of the boat to identify the best application method for each area. Creating a Watertight Barrier After the adhesive cures, the seams between the planks undergo routing, cleaning, and caulking. Installation The finished deck panels are placed in custom-made crates and then shipped and installed worldwide. Prior to the arrival of the new deck, the old deck is removed. Our installers inspect for any issues such as water intrusion, delamination, or corrosion on the vessel’s surface. If such issues are found, the areas are repaired before the new deck is installed. We use a combination of our TDS bedding and bonding adhesive, along with TDS two-part, flexible epoxy fitting glue, to secure the panels in place.

Everything you need to know about cork decks

March 28, 2025
Everything you need to know about cork decks As the industry and yacht owners move towards sustainable decking options, we have recently begun working with cork. This decision has been driven by the increasing demand from environmentally conscious customers . As more people prioritize eco-friendly choices in their purchases, cork has emerged as an ideal decking material. Known for its sustainability and numerous environmental benefits, cork offers unique characteristics that not only provide practical advantages but also contribute to a reduced environmental footprint . This makes cork a compelling choice for those looking to make greener decisions. TDS is a distributor for Navicork by Amorim , the world leader in the cork industry , which is leading the marine revolution with cork decks that champion sustainability. With more than 150 years of history, Amorim has made an unparalleled investment in research, innovation, and design, developing a portfolio of products and solutions that set the standard for environmentally responsible decking . Why is cork so environmentally friendly? UNESCO recognizes cork oak forests as one of the 36 most crucial ecosystems globally, highlighting their environmental significance. Cork is one of the most sustainable resources in the world and remains the only truly carbon-negative product on the market. Eco-Friendly & Carbon-Negative One tonne of cork absorbs about two tonnes of CO₂ while producing only 1.6 tonnes during processing. Harvesting cork does not require felling the tree , allowing forests to continue absorbing carbon dioxide. The bark regenerates , ensuring a sustainable and renewable material for generations to come. Lightweight and Durable Cork is significantly lighter than traditional decking materials, 2 to 5 times lighter than teak, reducing overall vessel weight and fuel efficiency. It is highly resistant to wear and tear , making it suitable for high-traffic marine applications. Superior Thermal and Acoustic Insulation Low thermal conductivity (0.065 W/mºK) minimizes condensation, reduces energy loss and keeps decks cool underfoot. The closed-cell structure of cork dampens structural noise , reducing onboard sound levels and acoustic performance. Comfort & Safety Cork’s soft, velvety texture provides superior underfoot comfort , reducing fatigue during long periods on deck. Its natural non-slip properties enhance safety, making it an excellent choice for marine environments. It’s splinter-free and reduces impact injuries compared to traditional hardwood decks. Design Flexibility & Aesthetic Appeal Available in various textures, colors, and patterns, cork decking can be customized to match the design vision of any vessel. Offers a unique aesthetic while still delivering the premium look and feel desired. For more information check our cork decking section

What to expect from TDS when you order a deck

March 11, 2025
What to expect from TDS when you order a deck Once you have decided to order your new deck from us, we have a process in place to ensure that the whole manufacturing and installation goes as smoothly as possible. With a commitment to transparency and customer satisfaction, we have put together some guidelines outlining the most important key steps from the moment that you commit to a new deck from us. 1. Customer Inquiry, Quotation Process and Formal Quote When we are first contacted by a customer, we ask that they send us photos and a layout of the boat via our contact page on our website so that we can understand their specific requirements. Our team then conducts its own research by reviewing the layout and photos provided, as well as gathering information about your boat. Based on this information, we develop a budgetary quote, and if the customer is satisfied with it, we provide a formal quote. The formal quote outlines all the essential details, including design specifications, materials, price and timelines. It is crucial that you read through this document carefully. Taking the time to review it not only helps you understand what to expect but also gives you an opportunity to ask questions or clarify any uncertainties before signing. Once the quote is acceepted, we issue a pro forma invoice for the templating/digitizing, after which we will organize a date to digitize the deck. Once we have the digital file, our sales and project management teams meet to review both the quote and the digitized layout to ensure that the quoted square footage is accurate. Should there be any discrepancies, we adjust the quote accordingly and will call you to explain the changes. 2. Securing Your Order with a Deposit After both parties agree on the final numbers, we send an order confirmation for your signature and will then send an invoice for 50% of the materials cost and the cost of digitization so that we can begin building the deck. Once the funds are received, we start production, later invoicing for the remaining 50%. Travel costs associated with the digitization are invoiced separately after the activity has concluded. 3. Project Management and Timeline Confirmation We will assigns a dedicated Project Manager to your deck, and they will be your primary point of contact throughout the entire process. Your Project Manager is responsible for confirming the production and installation timeline and ensuring that every phase of the project is scheduled appropriately. They will communicate any updates, answer your questions, and address any concerns that may arise during production. 4. Final Payment and Scheduling Shipment Before the deck is shipped and installed, we require that the full remaining balance is settled and we can then schedule shipment and installation without any delays. 5. Installation You will have received an estimated quote for installation. Once the deck is installed we ask the captain or project manager to walk the deck with our team and get a sign off and release for the deck and then we invoice them for the final amount along with any associated travel, travel time, accommodation and subsistence. We will invoice you the final amount once the installation has been done.
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