Deck Maintenance Products
Professional Tools
A professional re-caulk requires more than the right caulking compound — the correct tools make the difference between a clean, durable result and a job that fails within a season. TDS supplies the complete purpose-built toolkit for teak deck re-caulking, from initial caulk removal through final seam finishing.
The Reefing Hook removes the bulk of degraded caulk efficiently without damaging adjacent teak planks. The Seam Sander then cleans residual material from seam walls and prepares the surface for new caulk bonding. Bond Breaker Tape is placed at the seam base to prevent three-point adhesion — a critical step that allows the caulk to flex properly over time.
For caulk application, TDS professional-grade sausage caulk guns deliver consistent, controllable bead pressure for an even fill depth and clean finish with SIS 440. Sandpaper Kits are available in grits suited for final teak deck sanding between caulk applications. All TDS tools are the same equipment used by TDS-trained installation teams worldwide.
Caulk Removal Tool "Reefing Hook"
Stainless steel caulk removal tool for use before re-caulking. Removes most caulking from seams, leaving minimal material for final hand sanding with the Seam Sander. Can be re-sharpened.
Seam Sander
Designed for vertical sanding of seam walls to remove old material before re-caulking. Adjustable depth sanding plate. Kit includes handle, sanding plate, and six strips of sandpaper.
Seam Sander Sandpaper Strip Kit
40 grit replacement sandpaper strips for the TDS Seam Sander. Sold in a pack of 6 strips. Designed specifically for the TDS Seam Sander — easy to replace in the field.
Caulking Gun
Manual or pneumatic sausage caulking guns for 20 oz (592 mL) sausage packaging. Faster and more convenient for large jobs, generating less waste. Standard cartridge gun also available.
Bond Breaker Tape
Applied to the bottom of the seam before caulking to ensure proper two-point bonding. Prevents premature seam failure caused by three-point adhesion. Critical for professional results.
Common Questions
Caulking Tools FAQ
What tools do I need for a complete DIY teak re-caulk?
The core tools are a reefing hook for caulk removal, a seam sander for cleaning residue from seam walls, fine-line tape for seam edges, a professional caulk gun for controlled SIS 440 application, and appropriate sandpaper grits for finishing. TDS supplies all of these as a matched set.
What is a reefing hook and how is it used?
A reefing hook is a stainless steel caulk removal tool with a shaped tip that runs along the seam to lift and extract existing caulk. It removes the bulk of old caulk efficiently before final cleaning with the seam sander. The TDS reefing hook can be resharpened for extended use.
How does the TDS Seam Sander work?
The Seam Sander fits standard sandpaper and is sized to fit into teak seams, abrading residual caulk and contamination from the seam side walls without touching the teak face. This gives a clean bonding surface for new caulk without over-sanding the deck.
Is a professional caulk gun necessary for SIS 440?
A high-quality caulk gun gives consistent nozzle pressure for an even, controlled bead — important for proper seam fill depth and a clean surface finish. Standard inexpensive guns often deliver uneven pressure, resulting in voids, overfill, and a more difficult finish.
Where can I purchase TDS maintenance tools?
TDS tools are available directly from TDS and through our international dealer and distributor network. Contact us through the Contact page or via email at [email protected] to find a supplier near you.