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Sanding a Teak Deck


Sanding a teak deck is part of a vessel’s maintenance program. So it’s essential to know why to sand, when not to sand, and how to sand.



WHY SAND A TEAK DECK?

The primary reason for sanding a teak deck relatively smooth is to allow moisture and contaminants to run off the decks rather than become entrapped on the deck surface.



Teak, like all woods, can decay. The softwood between the grain lines wears and deteriorates faster than the hardwood of the grain lines. As a result, the wood develops a raised grain or rough surface.tionships with all the yards—they all know us, so that helps simplify a lot of situations,” he adds.

Extreme Ridges of Teak Decking Battens


Ridges trap rainwater and air pollutants in the valleys between the ridges rather than running cleanly off the deck. Note that when rubber caulking is proud on the teak deck surface, it can have the same effect. In the valleys, the decay process accelerates for softwood because it stays wet longer.



Another reason for sanding is to remove stains that are resistant to quality teak cleaners.


Before Sand-Out

WHEN NOT TO SAND


Sanding will make teak decks as smooth as possible within the limits of safe traction underfoot. But there are some cases where sanding is not the correct next step. Before starting a deck sanding project, the first two steps are to determine (1) the current thickness on the teak deck and (2) the remaining depth of the caulk seams. If the caulk seams are too shallow, the caulk will not stick to the sidewalls of the teak groove because there is not enough surface area to form a good bond. Sanding a deck with shallow seams will lead to caulk seam failures by further reducing seam wall surface area.


If the seams are shallow, but the deck is a traditionally laid deck with rabbeted seams, there may still be enough teak thickness below the seam to cut the seams deeper and then recaulk them before sanding the teak surface. To determine the deck thickness and seam depth, look at the edges of hatches or probing the caulk seams with a penknife. Read these blogs for more detailed information:


How to Assess Teak Decking Quality

How to Inspect Teak Deck Caulking & Seams


If both the teak deck and caulk seams are thin, do not sand the teak deck because it has reached the end of its useful life. Sanding will only lead to more caulk seam failures. If this happens, contact the teak decking professionals at Teakdecking Systems to learn about deck replacement options.



After Sand-Out — Looks New!

HOW TO SAND

If there is enough teak thickness and caulk seam depth for a successful deck sand-out, an optional first step is to wash the deck with Teakdecking Systems’ ECO 100 or 300 Teak Cleaners, to create a dirt-free and pollution-free surface.

As the deck dries, inspect the deck for caulk seam failures. Wherever the edge of a plank stays wet after the surrounding deck has dried, this indicates a seam failure. Water has reached the side of the plank, saturating the wood more deeply. Another reason for lingering moisture may be that the caulking is proud on the teak. This creates a dam that prevents the water from running off the deck.

It might be impossible to determine whether the dampness is due to a seam failure or raised caulking. So, use a single-edged razor blade to shave the caulking down to deck level in that area and re-wet the deck. If the prior damp spot does not reappear, the problem was the elevated caulking. Sanding will remove the elevated caulking.


Proud Caulk — Determine if it needs to be cut down or replaced. Replacement is necessary if the caulking is loose or the seam holds water.

If seam failures appear, mark them with tape. Once the deck has thoroughly dried, make any necessary caulk seam repairs before the general deck sand out.

NOTE: Sanding removes raised caulking; so some technicians prefer to make repairs after sanding, but these repairs must be performed carefully to prevent damage to the newly sanded deck.


Sanding carefully and slowly are the keys to beautifying rather than destroying a teak deck.

TOOLS


VACUUM AND SANDERS

Sanding creates a lot of dust, so a shop vacuum is necessary. Dust attachments on the sanders will reduce the volume of loose dust resulting in a cleaner workspace (and fewer cold stares from the crews on neighboring boats). However, dust gathering is not as important as having the right tools for the job. So do not be lured into using the wrong sander because “it doesn’t make a mess.”

Belt sanders and orbital (jitterbug, palm, etc.) sanders should only be used on a teak deck by highly skilled professionals. Amateur users can easily catch an edge and gouge the teak or create unwanted grain patterns. Orbital sanders work well on the teak. BUT they will only wiggle the caulking rather than cutting it down to the deck surface.

The best sander(s) for resurfacing a teak deck are a 5-6” Dual Action (D/A) random orbital sander and/or a 7” grinder for larger projects. Equip both sanders with the yellow soft pads that accept either Stick-It or Hook-n-Loop sanding disks. These two types of sanders cut in a circular pattern removing caulking down to deck level. If the deck has many corners, a Fein Multimaster sander, or similar, may be helpful.


Teakdecking Systems Employee Sands Steps

Use a hand sanding block or the final sanding because there will be edges that the power tools cannot reach without causing damage. Finger sanding is taxing, and it is not suitable for the deck because it creates dishes and grooves. So, using a sanding block in locations not easily reach by tools yields the best results. Remember: Teak is a naturally oily wood, so gumming of the grit is common.


More than likely, gel-coated, varnished, or painted surfaces are adjacent to the teak. These finishes could be easily damaged if nicked by either a D/A sander or a grinder. So, it is a good idea to temporarily mask those surfaces needing protection. Thin (1/8”) plywood or sheet metal are suitable for this. Cardboard is not.


Teak is one of the softer of the hardwoods, so it is easy to quickly sand away a lot of teak when too aggressive. So, start with 80 Grit and lightly sand. Adjust pressure, speed, or sanding grit to refine the rate of removal. ALWAYS keep the sander moving over the surface. Pausing in one place will cause the sander to create a depression by removing excess material.



For badly weathered teak, it may be necessary to first use coarser 60 grit disks, but only IF there is enough teak deck thickness. Sanding to an 80-grit finish provides the extra needed traction on a heeled and pitching deck, while power vessels are often finished with 100 -120 grit for a smoother surface. When sanding, keep the disks as flat as possible without losing control of the sander. More surface area is used, avoiding gouging the deck with a disk edge. Sweep back and forth, keeping the sander constantly in motion. If the sander does not have a vacuum attachment, then vacuum frequently. Vacuuming will keep the dust under control and the work area clean, enhancing visibility.


Before Sanding

Before starting the sanding process, decide how much sanding is necessary.


If the deck is relatively thick, with plenty of caulk seam depth, but there are ridges in the deck easily felt with a thumbnail, it is okay to sand the deck surface to the desired smoothness, keeping wet deck traction in mind.


If the caulk seams are shallow and the teak planks are not thick enough to be recut deeper, then sand off proud caulking. This step will give the teak a light dressing. This sanded finish helps shed water a bit better, extending the deck life while determining a replacement plan. Keep in mind that weathered planks will continue to hold water on their surface, accelerating the decomposition process.



WHEN TO STOP SANDING A TEAK DECK


Whether a teak deck is thick or thin, here is a way to gauge when to stop sanding:


A noticeable color change occurs to the sanded teak. The original golden color returns while, at the same time, the teak in the grooves is still the weathered silver color. Watch the silver diminish while sanding. When it is gone, the deck is smooth – STOP SANDING! Wash the deck and check the seams.

NOTE: A Professional move is to stop a little sooner, leaving a silver hint on the planks to avoid over-sanding. During the last step of thoroughly wash the deck to remove the residual mixture of teak and caulk dust. If well sanded and washed, the little bit of silvering will disappear.


While sanding a teak deck, it is possible to discover that some deck areas are in good shape, while others have reached the end of their useful life. Teakdecking Systems often works with owners and captains to replace specific deck areas rather than replacing entire teak decks. When doing a partial replacement, the new decks will have a custom design to match the existing decks on the vessel.


After sanding

For questions about sanding, please contact our team of experts:

yacht.services@teakdecking.com

941-756-0600


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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 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.

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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