How to Extend the Life of Teak Decking

Extend the life of teak decking and protect your investment with regular cleaning, maintenance, and repairs. The ultimate decking choice is teak because of its durability, anti-slip properties, rot resistance, and insulation, and, of course, its beauty. To maximize its value, clean it properly; lightly sand it once each year; and inspect for potential repairs. A properly maintained deck can last 5 to 15 years longer than one that is poorly maintained.

CLEAN FREQUENTLY … and CAREFULLY

FACT: There are cleaning methods that will sustain a teak deck and ones that will destroy it.

Teak is best cleaned with a soft-bristled brush using fresh or saltwater, and a single-part cleaner, such as the proprietary ECO Cleaners from Teakdecking Systems. These products are MARPOL and Florida Clean Marina certified, to help prevent water pollution.

Proper Cleaning Methods

  1. Wash deck with a single-part cleaner (Teakdecking Systems ECO cleaners) and a soft-bristled brush or scrubbing pad like Scotch-Brite Maroon pad or equivalent, and rinse well. If a single-part cleaner is not available, use dishwashing liquids such as Dawn with a small amount of bleach. Boat soap is okay to use, too, but it has a low pH so it’s important to rinse well.
  2. ALWAYS scrub AGAINST the grain lightly with the soft-bristled brush or scrubbing pad.
  3. Wash often to keep residue from becoming ingrained in the wood.
  4. Clean spills immediately to prevent damage to the teak.

NOTE: Rinsing often with salt water is recommended too. Many boat owners believe this is the best way to maintain and preserve teak, minimizing the use of cleaning agents.

IMPORTANT: Only use soft-bristled brushes or a scrubbing pad. A hard-bristled brush will wear away the softwood and shorten the life of the deck.


Before & After Cleaning with Teakdecking Systems ECO Cleaner

Improper Cleaning Methods

Teak is comprised of hard and soft wood. The growth rings of a teak tree form the dark hardwood, and the wood between these rings is the softwood. Therefore, when softwood is destroyed, deep ridges and uneven surfaces are created. Ridges trap debris, mold, and residues.

If a deck has proper care, a tight-grained marine deck constructed of vertical-grain teak will last longer because there is less softwood.


Ridges in teak collect dirt and mold as seen in this deck that is ready for replacement



The following products DESTROY the softwood and should never be used for cleaning:

  1. Power-washers
  2. Two-part cleaners (highly-acidic)
  3. Stiff-bristle brushes


CAUTION: Overly aggressive cleaning has the potential to damage the deck too. So, clean gently ONLY when needed.


PERFORM ANNUAL LIGHT SAND-OUT to EXTEND DECK LIFE

In addition to proper cleaning, perform an annual light sand-out (best performed by a highly experienced carpenter). A well-done sand-out will remove a thin layer of teak refreshing the surface and make it smooth. The teak’s natural oil is brought back to the surface. Further, the silver patina that naturally develops is removed with a light sand-out. This restores the teak to its original golden color should the owner prefer this look, but a grayed deck offers protection of the wood. Note, a gray deck may be cleaned and its color will not change.



Sailboat with a Fresh Sand-Out – Looks like a New Teak Deck

As stated previously, the softwood naturally wears away faster. So, sand-outs keep the surface smooth, minimizing residue build-up in rough surfaces where softwood is worn.


A proper sand-out removes a thin layer of teak (and caulking) evenly,. The skilled carpenter commonly starts with 60 grit and finishes with 80-100 grit, using a dustless sander such as a Festool branded product.


To ensure success, only hire very skilled technicians with quality equipment to perform this task. Seek out professionals who have strong references. (Ask local boatyards for recommendations.) A skilled technician reduces the risk of an uneven sand-out or potential gouges in the wood. Teak is an expensive investment and a bad sand-out will unnecessarily reduce its useful life. Uneven surfaces can create low areas where water can accumulate.


IMPORTANT: Cleaning regularly will minimize the need for sanding.


INSPECT AND REPAIR CAULKING

Inspect decks for loose caulking or gaps. Look for missing or detached caulking which could allow water penetration. If no failures are visible, wet the deck. As the deck dries, look for areas that may stay wet longer than the surrounding teak. This is where failures may exist.


Repair missing or detached caulking immediately to prevent damage.


Caulking Repairs are Often Necessary

Remove and re-caulk cracked or hardened caulking. Caulking must be flexible to allow the deck to expand and contract.


TIPS TO EXTEND THE LIFE OF TEAK DECKING


  • Store boats under cover when possible
  • Bows and swim platforms often experience the most weather damage and require more maintenance, so protect these areas if possible
  • Create and adhere to a regular cleaning and maintenance program
  • Make repairs immediately

Enjoy the beauty and functionality of a teak deck, and contact us with questions about how to extend the life of teak decking or read these articles:


How to Assess Teak Decking Quality

How to Inspect Teak Deck Caulking and Seams


CONTACT US

941-756-0600 and press “1”

yacht.services@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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