Teak is a wood renowned for its rot-proof nature, anti-slip properties, durability and ease of maintenance. It has the added advantage of immediately giving any boat a luxurious look, thanks to its unique aesthetics. It’s no coincidence, then, that it has been used for hundreds of years for boat deck coverings, giving them an incomparable allure in the blink of an eye.
To increase its longevity and preserve its original beauty, however, it’s a good idea to feed your teak deck covering and clean it regularly. Here’s some advice on how to do it.
Nourishing your teak deck covering
Teak is an oily wood that naturally contains an oleoresin that makes it waterproof and protects it from moisture. This resin tends to dry out when exposed to external aggression, turning the teak a grayish color. Slight cracks may even appear.
To maintain the wood’s original color, it needs to be nourished with teak oil so that it permeates the pores and regenerates the oleoresin. Teak will then have a more matt appearance and retain its original look. It will also be protected from stains, dirt and UV rays.
Apply the oil to dry wood in the direction of the grain, using a soft brush.
Cleaning your teak boat deck covering
Teak decking also needs regular cleaning to remove dirt and micro-organisms. To do this, simply brush it well with soapy water, using a brush that’s not too hard, to avoid digging into the fiber.
You can also wet your teak flooring as often as possible with seawater. The salt in seawater helps concentrate moisture, preventing the wood from drying out too quickly. It also has the added advantage of protecting against moss and micro-organisms.
Regular care of these two components will significantly prolong the luxurious appearance of your teak flooring.
Beware of cracks in the slats or deterioration of the caulking joints: work should be carried out as soon as possible to repair any damage caused by water infiltration.
If the laths are of sufficient thickness and quality, they can be sanded down. Defective joints should be removed, the underside surface cleaned and the joints repaired to ensure the longevity of the deck covering.
