Most people agree that a teak deck looks great on a boat. Teak decks have been used for hundreds of years. Besides the aesthetics, a teak deck also has practical advantages. For example, it is often a bit stiffer and has a rough texture, so you are much less likely to slip.
In addition, a teak deck remains cool even when exposed to the sun and the weather is very hot. It also has a good insulating effect. The wood insulates the inside of the boat very well. This regulates the temperature inside the boat and prevents big temperature fluctuations.
What causes discoloration of a teak deck
A new teak deck is naturally brown in color. Teak is a tropical hardwood and this golden-brown color will fade to a silver gray color after several years. This discoloration is natural and cannot be prevented. Weather elements such as rain, UV radiation and natural wear are among other things responsible for this process.
There are some detailing products that can restore the original color for a while, but in the end, these can actually cause more damage to the deck. If you never clean the deck, you can expect an unattractive green and gray deck. This green color is due to bacteria that settle in the wood. But algae can also cause a greenish color.
For example, when you rinse the boat with water from a river or lake, it can contain algae and bacteria. These accumulate over time and settle in the wood. Hence the importance of thorough cleaning twice a year and having it checked by an expert once every 5 years.
Preventing discoloration of a teak deck
Discoloration can be prevented if the deck is treated correctly. Too much soap or too strong a soap, for example, can eat away at the wood and make the surface rougher. The same applies to a high-pressure sprayer or a brush that is too hard.
These also make the surface rougher, making it easier for the bacteria to settle in. To get more tips or find a luxury unit for boat storage in Chandler, please visit Luxelocker.