teak?

[BART FORD]

How does one keep teak clean and pretty? Any suggestions? After I scrubit and it is wet, it looks great, stays that way for a couple of days and then I back to square one.

 

[Peggie Hall/Head Mistress]

Cetol or Armada

Oil-based products that dry to a hard finish and last a full season. The initial prep--cleaning, sanding as smooth as a baby's cheek--is as much work as prepping to varnish, but that's the only time you'll EVER have to do it, nor will you ever have to clean teak again. Unlike varnish, it doesn't crack or peel, and scuffs and scrapes can be easily touched up. Once a year--maybe twice in tropical climates--a light "sanding" with fine bronze wool to remove ground-in dirt and scratches...one new coat...you're done for another year--or at least 6 months. Search the archives...there's been a lot of discussion about teak care and these two products. Most people who don't like 'em either skimp on the prep, don't follow the directions, or let 'em go too long before applying another coat.

 

[Steve Dion]

Sand it.

Bart:If you sand the teak and get it very smooth (like you are going to varnish it) it will stay nice. DO NOT scrub it. This opens the grain and make it easy for dirt to accumulate in the grain.When you clean it use a very soft brush. It teak will grey (just like my hair) and will look good.If you decide to go with a finish, you also need to sand it down until it is smooth. Then wipe it down with mineral spirits to remove any surface oil from the wood and apply your finish of choice.My choice is Cetol Light. You should use a minimum of 3 coats but 4-6 is better. Some say that the a cetol clear coat is not very durable (I do not know).If you have natural teak or coated, get some covers for it to help keep the teak from the sun and environment.

 

[RON MILLS]

Smith & Co. or Plasteak

I think that these are the only two options if you want any brightwork on the outside. I just finished installing new teak handrails and the half round molding down the side. I have been using a product made in Richmond CA, that PRACTICAL SAILOR says is great, for about five years. You first apply what he calls CPES(Clear Penetrating Epoxy Sealer)in several coats. After that you apply his polyurethane. If you follow his directions the finish will last about five years beautifully. He is only factory direct. His website is fiveyearclear.com. You should check him out and the Practical Sailor review. It's expensive but I think well worth it.