How Do You Care For Teak In A Marine Environment?
Three methods are available to take care of teak that’s used aboard a boat. The first is the application of varnish. This is more permanent than the application of teak oil and doesn’t bury the wood in a layer of paint. The second is applying a coating of teak oil. While this leaves the teak with a shiny, wood finish that’s nearly impervious to water, it washes off through the mechanical action of water splashing on it. Finally, there’s paint, which will preserve the teak by sealing it but won’t allow the wood to be seen. Apply teak oil to all sides of the teak woodwork with a soft, clean cloth that has been saturated in teak oil. Teak oil is labor-intensive; you should apply it before every boating excursion and after every washing. Teak oil is a “drying oil,” so the rag must be disposed of in a covered metal trash receptacle since drying oils may combust spontaneously. Lightly sand your boat’s brightwork (unpainted, bare woodwork) with 220-grit sandpaper, and wipe with a dust-free cl
