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Navigating the World of Teak in 2025

As 2024 drew to a close, illegal teak dominated headlines across yachting industry media, highlighting growing scrutiny of regulatory compliance in relation to the importation of Myanmar teak in violation of EUTR and UK timber regulations. This development intensified concerns about non-compliance with the European Timber Regulation (EUTR), spotlighting the challenges the industry faces in ensuring sustainable and legal timber sourcing.


Furthermore, the broader and more stringent EUDR (EU Deforestation Regulation) is set to be implemented by 30 December 2025 for large companies and 30 June 2026 for micro- and small companies. Under the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), a large company is defined as one that meets at least two of the following criteria: more than 250 employees, an annual turnover exceeding €50 million, or an annual balance sheet total exceeding €43 million. In contrast, a small company is defined as one with fewer than 50 employees and either an annual turnover or an annual balance sheet total not exceeding €10 million.


This will introduce a requirement for any operator or trader placing commodities on the EU market (or exporting from it) to prove they did not contribute to forest degradation or recently deforested land – including a requirement for companies to provide geolocation data down to a specific plot of land for each tree felled. With all of this in mind, it can feel like there is more to navigate than ever where sourcing teak is concerned. 


Depending on the preferences of each project and owner, high-quality, sustainable alternatives to teak (such as polyurethane composite decking or cork decking) are also available – these can be explored here and here. However, many superyacht owners are traditional by nature and still have a strong preference for the classic, warm look of teak. If it is teak which is required, how can you ensure that your teak is sourced legally? 


Mike Doyle, Wood Sourcing Manager at TDS, emphasizes the importance of ensuring compliance when selecting a teak decking company. He advises focusing on the company’s adherence to international regulations, such EURT / EUDR or other relevant laws, and verifying their sourcing practices to ensure the timber is legally harvested and traceable. Proper due diligence in this area can help you avoid serious legal or regulatory issues down the line.

 
Understand Relevant Legislation & Regulations 
Make sure you are familiar with the relevant legislation and regulations associated with teak and that the companies you are buying from are in compliance with EUTR /EUDR. This requires companies to exercise due diligence in sourcing timber to ensure that it has been harvested legally according to the laws of the country of origin. 


Due Diligence System 
A due diligence system (DDS), as required under the EUTR and EUDR, is a structured process designed to ensure that timber and related products are sourced legally and responsibly, without contributing to deforestation. It involves gathering detailed information about the origin of the wood, such as the country of harvest, the tree species, and supporting documentation to verify legality.


The system also includes assessing the risks associated with the supply chain, such as whether the wood comes from regions with weak enforcement of environmental or forestry laws. If any risks are identified, companies must take appropriate actions to reduce or eliminate them, such as seeking additional documentation or switching to more reliable suppliers.


This approach promotes sustainable practices and helps companies comply with regulations while protecting global forests.

 

Carry Out Regular Audits and Monitoring 
To ensure compliance with their due diligence system, companies must conduct regular audits of their supply chains. This should encompass both internal audits (in which they periodically review internal processes and supplier compliance with legal requirements) and third-party audits. 


In third–party audits, companies engage independent auditors who specialize in forestry and sustainability to assess compliance with EUTR and other relevant standards. 


Train Employees and Stakeholders
Training is vital to ensure that all employees involved in procurement, sales and supply management understand the importance of sourcing legal timber. These programs should encompass the implications of illegal logging, best practices for verifying supplier claims and specifics of EUTR / EUDR compliance.


Engage with Certification Programs
To demonstrate your commitment to sustainable sourcing practices, companies can participate in recognized certification programs like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC). These will require adherence to strict guidelines for sustainability and legality. 


Establish Clear Policies and Procedures
Develop clear policies for timber sourcing which outline your commitment to both legality and sustainability. These should be readily available to suppliers and communicated throughout your organization. 


Collaborate with Industry Groups and NGOs
Collaboration is key! Engaging with non-governmental organizations (NGOS), industry groups and other stakeholders will bolster your resources and support and offer insights for implementing best practices for legal timber sourcing. It can also improve transparency within supply chains. 

Keep Informed About Changes in Legislation

It’s crucial to stay updated on the latest timber regulations, such EUTR or EUDR and international agreements on forest management. These regulations are constantly evolving and understanding them ensures that the teak used in your deck is legally sourced and compliant with current laws.


Work closely with your supplier to confirm they are monitoring changes in legislation and have systems in place to meet compliance standards. Ensure they can provide documentation verifying the legality of their timber and demonstrate a commitment to sustainable sourcing practices.


By staying informed and partnering with suppliers who prioritize compliance, you can minimize risks and contribute to responsible forest management efforts.


Finally, Mike’s takeaway message would be:“If you need to hire external help to ensure your timber is compliant, just do it! A third-party company like Preferred by Nature or Double Helix will do a lot of the leg work for you.


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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 COâ‚‚ 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.

Choosing the right wood for your deck: What are your options?

February 20, 2025
The yachting community has long held the belief that viable teak must come from very old, natural forests, with much of the industry still adhering to the notion that teak must be 100 years old. Despite the environmental and humanitarian controversy surrounding teak, many owners worldwide continue to request it. This guide explores the different wood materials currently available , helping industry stakeholders and owners to make informed decisions about the best option for their deck . The information is divided into two sections titled "Wood we work with" and "Wood we do not work with." It is intended solely for educational purposes, providing detailed information on the characteristics, merits and concerns of each type. As a leading deck builder and installer, TDS remains completely impartial with no vested interest in any of the products discussed in this guide. MYANMAR TEAK The importation of Myanmar teak into Europe has been illegal since 2013 under the European Union Timber Regulation (EUTR), which aims to prevent the sale of illegally harvested timber. In 2021, additional sanctions were introduced that further restricted its availability, extending the ban to the USA as part of broader efforts to curb deforestation and human rights violations linked to the Myanmar timber trade. That same year, the Council of the European Union imposed targeted sanctions on Myanmar’s military regime, specifically restricting its ability to export timber that serve as key revenue sources for the junta. Despite these restrictions, Myanmar teak continues to be traded in countries that do not enforce such sanctions, including India, China, the UAE, Turkey, and Australia. Note, these restrictions may change at anytime. WOOD WE WORK WITH PLANTATION TEAK Characteristics Less dense than old-growth, natural teak. Younger trees aged between 30-50 years. Is resistant to insects and rot. Merits Despite the shorter and narrower planks, we can still get 20mm thickness and planks up to 2.2m. By using scarf joints or finger joints we can create 4m battens that are glued together. Shorter planks also reduce the purchase price. A guarantee that the forest is managed in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner, including practices such as replanting trees, protecting biodiversity, and minimizing environmental impact. Verifies that the teak is sourced from legal and well-managed forests, reducing the risk of illegal logging, and complying with international law. The teak undergoes rigorous quality control measures, ensuring it meets certain standards for durability, strength, and appearance. Social Responsibility is at the heart of the activity, including fair labor practices and community engagement, supporting local communities, and ensuring workers' rights are respected. Plantations are managed with long-term sustainability in mind, ensuring a reliable and consistent supply of teak. Well-managed plantations, act as carbon sinks, helping to mitigate climate change by absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. If properly maintained a deck will last 15-20 years. Concerns Some plantation teak is harvested too early for quality yacht decking. Less growth rings, resulting in lower grain quality. Less density that can give rise to warping and bowing. Pin knots are a consequence from pruning lower branches. Plantation managers, governments are reluctant to direct resources towards certification schemes. Where to source it? India, Indonesia, Tanzania, Benin, Brazil, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Costa Rica, Trinidad Note: there are other countries with younger 15-20 year teak. CERTIFIED GREEN TEAK Characteristics Uses parts of 30-40 year-old trees that would normally be rejected due to knots and imperfections. Sliced into thin veneers and glued together, to form a modified material with superior strength. Lengths up to 4m and allows large widths due to laminations Aesthetically attractive, with a plank like finish. Excellent durability as the laminating process enhances its stability and dimensional integrity. Is resistant to insects and rot. Merits The veneers are similar to the vertical grain of natural teak. Yield about 85% of the log vs 2-15% of log for Vertical Grain Renowned for its hardness, strength, and durability. A test panel currently on a yacht, had a 10kg scaffolding pole dropped onto it, causing only a 2mm dent. Limited susceptibility to cracking and warping, when cut and dried correctly. Non-skid surfaces. Extra insulation in hot and cold climates. A well-maintained deck should last 15-20 years. Concerns It may have variations in color and texture due to differences in the wood grain and moisture content of individual layers. Ensuring the quality and integrity of the bonding process is crucial, as poorly bonded laminations can lead to delamination, weakness, and structural issues over time. While lamination can improve the stability of green teak, the overall durability and longevity of green laminated teak may still be inferior to properly seasoned teak. It still requires careful moisture management to prevent swelling, shrinkage, or damage over time, especially in environments with fluctuating humidity levels. In some cases, the adhesives used in the lamination process contain chemicals. Where to source it? Thailand THERMALLY MODIFIED WOODS ACCOYA Characteristics Certified sustainable fast-growing softwood “Radiata Pine” is its base material. The wood is acetylated using acetic anhydride and water. It makes the wood virtually unable to absorb water, expand and rot. Merits Extremely durable, they guarantee it will last 50 years for use above ground and 25 years for use below ground. The wood can be reused, recycled, or burned as biomass (fuel). A great option for certain vessels such as catamarans. Very low maintenance. Concerns The color is different to what the industry “expects”. Its not as hard as teak, as it still has a lot of softwood. Where to source it? The Radiata Pine is harvested in New Zealand and shipped to the Netherlands for the modification process. TMT MARINE LIGHT Characteristics Significantly cooler than teak. Much lighter than teak. Similar abrasion resistance as natural teak. Merits Very dimensionally stable. Resistant to shrinking and swelling due to humidity, temperature, and moisture content. Resistant to decay and insects. Large logs that produce long, wide boards with tight, vertical grain. Can be used for interior applications, accepts stains and finishes. Fast-growing, sustainable species. Durable, slip resistant surface that is excellent for marine conditions. Concerns Much lighter in color, almost white before weathering. Soft wood that needs to be carefully sanded to remove scratch marks. Limited availability. Prone to splitting, chipping, and splintering requiring high quality tools and sharp blades when working. Where to source it? Western United States and Canada. WOOD WE DON'T WORK WITH THERMALLY MODIFIED WOODS AMERICAN HARD MAPLE Characteristics Specifically created for the marine industry Thermally modified by a controlled pyrolysis process of the wood being heated to (> 180 °C) in an oxygen free atmosphere. This process changes to the chemical structures of wood's cell wall components; lignin, cellulose and hemicellulose which increases its durability. Merits No chemicals are used during the modification process. It looks like teak. It weathers to grey in the same way as teak. Claims a zero-carbon footprint. Concerns Cracking. The color of thermally modified maple can vary depending on the specific treatment process and wood source, which may affect its suitability for certain design schemes. Where to source it? USA. TESUMO Characteristics Fast-growing African tree that matures in 50 years. Sourced from certified managed forests. Modified using heat, resin infusion and drying. Merits Developed as part of a research project conducted by Lürssen Shipyard and the German University of Göttingen.Can be disposed of by burning. Tested for years on land and at sea. Similar appearance, dimensional stability and rot resistance as teak. Concerns Limited amounts available. Where to source it? Germany. IROKO Characteristics African hardwood native to West Africa. Is resistant to rot and termites. Long, wide boards. Merits Similar color to teak. Economically priced. Concerns Extremely hard wood to work with: produces an enormous amount of fume and dust, prone to splintering and blunts work tools. Susceptible to cracking. Requires a lot of maintenance. A deck will last 5-6 years. Where to source it? West Africa. LEGAL DISCLAIMER This document is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or environmental advice. The information provided herein is based on publicly available industry knowledge at the time of publication and is subject to change due to evolving regulations, market conditions, and environmental considerations. TDS does not endorse, recommend, or assume responsibility for the sourcing, legality, sustainability, or quality of any wood materials mentioned in this guide. This guide is provided solely for educational purposes, with no commercial interest in promoting or favoring any specific wood type, supplier, or industry practice. The inclusion or omission of any material does not imply endorsement or disapproval of any specific supplier, manufacturer, or distributor. All information is presented without any warranty, express or implied, regarding accuracy, reliability, or completeness. TDS expressly disclaims any liability for direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from reliance on the content of this guide. Readers are encouraged to conduct independent research, consult industry professionals, and verify compliance with applicable laws and regulations before making any decisions related to wood procurement or usage. By using this guide, readers acknowledge and agree that TDS is not responsible for any business decisions, financial outcomes, or disputes between suppliers, manufacturers, or buyers. Any reference to specific wood sources or countries is purely informational and does not imply any partnership, business relationship, or endorsement.
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