Deck cladding is a boat decking material designed to enhance the aesthetics and safety of a vessel. It is used for both new-build and renovation projects, whatever the size of the vessel.
There are two main types of deck covering:
- synthetic materials such as synthetic teak, PVC, polymer rubber, etc.
- natural, rot-resistant woods such as teak, iroko, cork, etc.
These materials must be UV-, weather- and seawater-resistant. They must also be slip-resistant.
The various types of deck covering are available in batten or prefabricated panel form.
Installation must be meticulous, using PU adhesives.
Maintenance of synthetic boat deck coverings
The big advantage of synthetic flooring is that it’s easy to maintain.
In fact, unlike wood, this type of material is totally waterproof; it won’t rot, and has no knots, blemishes or splinters. What’s more, it is stabilized and will not turn gray like teak.
Synthetic teak therefore requires no special oils or other protective products.
To wash it, simply use a high-pressure cleaner and brush away stains and dirt with soapy water.
However, it’s advisable not to wait before treating a stain, so that it doesn’t imprint itself on the covering. However, it is possible to sand in the direction of the grain afterwards.
Maintenance of teak deck coverings
High-quality teak is highly resistant to weathering, stains and seawater, thanks to the oil it contains, oleoresin. Many boat owners think that all they have to do is clean it with seawater.
However, over time, teak deck coverings tend to grey as they lose their oil. Maintenance is essential to avoid this aging process.
To do this, start by cleaning with a specific product diluted in water. Once cleaned, the surface needs to be nourished with teak oil. A minimum of two coats of oil are applied with a brush, in the direction of the wood. Once these two operations have been completed, the teak should have regained its original appearance.
