Teak Facts

Teak's Superior Properties

• Teak is the most valuable and versatile hardwood. It's often referred to as the "King of Woods" for its valuable property. It is the only wood that resists severe impact of sea water and broiling sun and does not split, crack or become deformed.


• Teak is native to the south and southeast of Asia. It grows naturally in low densities of 1 - 5 individuals per acre. Teak plantations have appeared first in Burma in 1856. Teak trees are very large, growing to 30-40 metres in height. The name teak originates from the Tamil word Thekku.


• Teak was assessed in the shipbuilding industry for centuries. Teak was 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 resist the damaging effects of seawater.


• Teak develops a unique non-skid property underfoot, even when wet due to a high silica (sand) content allowing for greater friction 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 has 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 Deck Maintenance

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 colours 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. If theyare given little attention, 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 well. As it weathers, new teak decking gradually turns gray or silver.

Teak Cleaning

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 retaint 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, add oils or treatments! Teak decks thrive on "benign" neglect. They do not need chemicals, varnish or oil. Water, a little soap or other cleaner and a gentle scrubbing provides all the necessary care.