Whether by choice or by default, if it’s already been installed when the boat is purchased, teak decking can sometimes be a problem. Known for its many unique qualities, teak also has its drawbacks. Relatively decried for the ecological consequences of its use in certain parts of the world, teak remains the nec plus ultra of deck cladding. Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of teak cladding, before moving on to the installation and maintenance of this precious wood.
The advantages of teak decking
Teak is so widely used in shipbuilding because of its many advantages. Teak is naturally rot-resistant. It’s a wood rich in natural oils – oleoresin – which makes it highly resistant to various aggressions (fungi and termites in particular) and humidity.
Non-slip, with a tight grain and satin-finish color, it has aesthetic properties. A teak deck covering is therefore, a priori, a guarantee of long-lasting protection for the deck of a boat, provided, of course, that the wooden slats used are of impeccable quality (sufficient thickness, from mature wood and without surface defects).
The disadvantages of teak
The disadvantages of teak are both ecological, due to the deforestation associated with its massive use, and economic. As teak is a precious wood, choosing to cover the deck of your boat with it can be relatively costly if you opt for quality. Teak slats are available on the market in thicknesses ranging from 6 to 14 mm.
The thicker the wood, the stiffer and denser it is, offering greater longevity. On the other hand, its price is higher and its weight must be taken into consideration in relation to the boat’s performance. On the other hand, as teak loses its oil over time, it becomes tarnished and eventually turns gray. This phenomenon is observed on all types of wood.
Laying teak flooring
The longest-lasting traditional designs are made with 12 to 14mm slats. The laths are screwed one by one to the deck and caulked with glue.
For greater ease of installation, teak decking can also be fitted using batten boards. These are planks made entirely in the workshop, according to templates, using teak slats joined together with glue. Once the planks have been assembled, all that remains is to glue them to the deck.
Whatever the method used, the quality of the joints is essential to guarantee the longevity of the decking: they must be sufficiently flexible for woodworking and of perfect quality to guarantee watertightness.
Maintenance of teak decking
To ensure longevity and limit aging, boat deck cladding must be regularly maintained. Frequent cleaning is necessary to remove dirt and stains from the surface.
Once cleaned, teak needs to be revived to restore its natural color. Finally, teak that has turned black has lost some of its natural oil. It must therefore be oiled and protected.
