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The questions you should be asking when shopping for a deck

When it comes to selecting a company for your new deck, transparency and trust are essential. While we at Teakdecking Systems believe in the superior quality and craftsmanship of our decks, we also understand that we are not the cheapest option. While cost is an important factor, it’s equally crucial to consider the long-term value and durability of your investment.

 

If you decide not to entrust us with your new deck, we strongly encourage you to do your due diligence and ask the right questions before committing. Our top priority is ensuring you make an informed decision, no matter whom you choose to work with. A new deck is a significant investment and balancing cost with quality and durability is key to avoiding costly mistakes down the line. To help you navigate this process, here are six crucial considerations to guide your decision-making process:

 

1. Research the Company’s Reputation

The first step in evaluating a decking company is to research its reputation. A quick online search can provide valuable insights into their track record through reviews, ratings, and testimonials from fellow yacht owners. Social media groups, forums, and word-of-mouth recommendations are also great sources of information. Pay close attention to any recurring themes in feedback—positive or negative—as they often reveal the company’s strengths or potential red flags.

 

2. Understand the Quality of the Teak

Not all teak is created equal. High-quality, seasoned old-growth teak is far superior to plantation or fast-growing teak. Old-growth teak has tighter growth rings, which make it denser, less permeable, and significantly more durable. Plantation teak, while more readily available, lacks these qualities and may not hold up as well in the long term. Knowing what kind of material you’re putting on your yacht will ensure you make a well-informed investment.

 

3. Verify the Legality and Availability of Materials

Legal sourcing of teak is not only an ethical concern but also impacts project timelines. Some companies may not stock the teak they use, instead purchasing it only when an order is placed. This could lead to delays, particularly if the company encounters sourcing challenges. Ensure the company you choose has legal teak readily available in their possession. This not only guarantees compliance with international laws but also reduces the likelihood of unforeseen delays in your project.

 

4. Compare Decking Materials

While teak is a popular choice for yacht decking, there are alternatives like EVA foam, PVC, Polyurethane, and cork that you may consider. Each material has its own pros and cons in terms of cost, durability, and appearance. For instance, EVA foam is lightweight and budget-friendly but lacks the longevity of teak, while PVC and Polyurethane offer varying levels of durability and cost-effectiveness. Carefully evaluate these options and discuss them with the company to determine the best fit for your needs and budget.

 

5. Review Past Projects and Current Workload

A company’s previous work speaks volumes about its capabilities and standards. Request to see examples of past projects, ideally ones similar to your vessel, to gauge their expertise. Additionally, inquire about their current workload. If a company is overbooked, your project could face delays, leaving your boat out of commission longer than expected. Asking for a clear manufacturing and installation timeline can help you set realistic expectations and plan accordingly.

 

6. Select a Reputable Yard

Where the work is performed is just as important as who performs it. Opt for a reputable yard that has experience handling yacht projects. A good yard can coordinate with subcontractors, enabling multiple tasks to be completed simultaneously, which saves time and ensures a smoother process overall. Effective project management is crucial in these situations, so ensure the yard has a proven track record of handling yacht renovations.

 

7. Warranty & Service

When evaluating decking companies, it is important to check if they offer a warranty and ask detailed questions about its coverage. Does it cover both materials and installation? What is the duration, and are there any conditions or exclusions? Clarify where warranty work will be carried out and any associated costs, such as transport, subsistence, lodging, and logistics required for repairs.

 

8. Global Service

For yacht owners constantly on the move, choosing a company with reliable global support is essential. Evaluate the company's operational reach and its ability to respond and travel to your vessel if needed. For total peace of mind, TDS decks are covered by a worldwide warranty, ensuring customers receive top-tier service and support wherever they are.

 

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right company for your yacht’s decking is a decision that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Transparency, reputation, and quality should be your top priorities when evaluating potential companies. By asking the right questions and thoroughly researching your options, you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your deck meets your expectations in both quality and longevity.

 

While cost is always a factor, remember that value is about more than just the upfront price, it’s about the durability, craftsmanship, and long-term performance of your deck.  A well-informed decision will not only protect your investment but also enhance your enjoyment of your yacht for years to come.

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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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