Teak's Superior Properties

• Teak is the world's most valuable and versatile hardwood. It's often referred to as the "King of Woods" for its prized property of being the only wood that withstands the harsh effects of sea water and broiling sun and does not split, crack or warp.
• Teak is native to the south and southeast of Asia. It grows naturally in low densities of 1 - 5 individuals per acre. The first Teak plantations appeared in Burma in 1856. Teak trees are very large, growing to 30-40 metres in height. The name teak comes from the Tamil word Thekku.
• Teak has been prized by the shipbuilding industry for centuries. Teak has been used on aircraft carriers, tall-mast graceful clipper ships, cruise ships, refined yachts, dinghies as well as rugged workboats. Exterior teak decks are valued because teak is the only wood that withstands the damaging effects of sea water and relentless sun.
• Teak under use develops a unique non-skid property underfoot, even when wet due to a high silica (sand) content allowing for greater traction when walking on a wet teak deck. Its high oil content means it can retain its lustre for years and its strength does not diminish even after years of exposure.
• Teak possesses natural resins called techno quinines that repel termites, marine borers and resist rot.
• Teak popularity and consumption has led to several environmental concerns, such as the disappearance of rare old-growth teak. However, its value has led to growth in sustainable production throughout the seasonally dry tropics in forestry plantations. The Forest Stewardship Council offers certification of sustainably grown and harvested teak products.

Teak is a wonder wood that has been prized aboard ships for centuries. It wears like iron and develops a unique non-skid property underfoot, even when wet. It is highly rot resistant and rarely warps or cracks. Best of all, it radiates colors ranging from a warm golden glow to a practical silver-gray that enhances the look of any boat.

Given consistent, caring attention, teak decks will last for decades. Abused, they will fail - often leading to water leaks that are nearly impossible to trace, the rotting of wood framing and widespread interior finish damage.

Teak is perfect for yacht decks because it is strong and elastic and once seasoned, it holds its shape. As it weathers, new teak decking gradually turns gray or silver.

The cleaning of teak decks is often the easiest job on a spring "to do" list. Simply wash teak with a mild soap (i.e. liquid Tide), scrubbing lightly with a gentle nylon pad or an ultra soft brush to lift accumulated dirt from the silvery-gray decking. Scrub the Tide into the teak lightly with a nylon pad. The 3M white pad is the least abrasive. Work the scrubber across the grain, in 'figure eights' or circles, but avoid scrubbing with the grain because that wears away the softer elements of the wood. Hose off the deck with salt or fresh water. That's it, job done.

Finished, the teak remains gray - but it's clean. Rinse the deck often during the summer and maybe a little soap to keep it clean.

To get the rich colour of fresh teak consider sanding the deck on an annual basis with a light grit to remove the top layer. This will do a terrific job. Never power wash and never add oils or treatments! Teak decks thrive on "benign" neglect. They don't need chemicals, varnish or oil. Water, a little soap or other cleaner and a gentle scrubbing provides all necessary care.

Call Teak Marine at 604.542.6419 or email info@teakmarine.com for more information on taking care of your teak deck.