Keeping Teak Looking Great

[Randy18540]

I am going to refinish the teak on my O'Day 28, using the 2 part chemical method. The wood will be exposed to harsh sun, and I want the finish to last as long as possible. What can I use to protect the golden wood color?
Thank You in advance.

 

[Tim R.]

I like Honey Teak. You can apply multiple coats very quickly and they supply you with a sealant to protect it. I have 2 season on my handrails and they still look great.

 

[higgs]

This is the million dollar question. I tried Honey Teak and like the results for a couple of years but had trouble making repairs look good. There has just been a discussion on the forum about Bristol Finish and you should look at those recent posts. Some like it some don't. Cetol is another popular coating.

Personally, I have had poor results with Bristol Finish, though others have had good results. I am trying Cetol now.

I did see a large schooner in Savannah, GA that had good looking exterior wood and they told me they used a Home Depot Deck finish. They said they were quite happy with how it held up and it looked pretty good, though not as nice as other finishes I have seen.

 

[Eric M]

With bare, smooth sanded (220 grit) wood I have used 3 coats Cetol natural teak followed by 3 coats Cetol gloss applied per the directions on the cans. Unlike the original Cetol products, the natural teak is very much a clear finish. Here in FL the boat is in the water, in the sun 365 days a year. The wood that is direct exposed I put on 2 coats per season of Cetol gloss for maintenance. A light sanding before you start and you are ready to finish and the end result looks just as good as the original job. Wood under the bimini lasts for years with no maintenance required.
Good Luck,
--Eric

 

[philwsailz]

I will chime in and share that I agree with the use of Cetol. Check out my profile albums to see some examples of how Cetol looks on your exterior brightwork.

 

[jcastle]

A simple easy method is just using a cleaner and teak oil. Tip Top Teak makes some great products, but you need to use them several times a year....