teak hand rails

[wjs]

I want to refinish the teak hand rails on my 1981 9.2A. Is it best to remove the hand rails from the deck to finish? I was told that if I remove the hand rails from the deck that I should replace them in a day or two otherwise they may be difficult to replace as I'll have "big trouble" trying to line up the screw holes.
Any thoughts on this?
Also, what is the best process (and products) to get the most durable finish on hand rails?

thanks, wjs

 

[Bob McKee]

Three years ago I removed the hand rails and took them home for about three weeks. I cleaned and sanded them and applied three coats of Sikkens Cetol Marine Natural Teak finish, following the instructions. Apply a coat, cure 24 hrs, apply next coat, cure 24 hrs, sand lightly and apply the last coat. The hand rails then sat in the basement for several weeks due to weather, business and other distractions. When I reinstalled them they went back into place with no problems. After 30+ years of being installed on the boat they are well adjusted to their position in life and didn't argue. I did install larger (1") stainless steel washers on the inside to ensure good support, although that probably wasn't neccessary. The Cetol has stood up well to the Northwest weather, but I should have refinished them this last summer. Cetol isn't as pretty as varnish, but is much more durable.

 

[Calypso]

I used cetol teak also. Then I covered them in 2-3 coats cetol clear. That really makes them stand out. wonderful shine. You must keep up with it, scuff, and add a coat every year to maintain it.

 

[wjs]

thanks for the quick response. this willl be one of my winter projects.
wjs

 

[Calypso]

Don't forget- don't let water in the holes while the rails are off!! The wood should be fine, just start all the fasteners if you can and THEN tighten them down.

 

[wjs]

got it. thanks for all your help.

wjs