ACCIDENTS DO HAPPEN
Keep your teak deck barefoot friendly and beautiful with the following tips for minor accidents and repair during the busy season ahead
While teak is stable, anti-slip, does not warp or rot, nor attracts insects or moisture, it is susceptible to damage from everyday wear and tear. When minor accidents occur, it is essential to immediately take care of the deck to protect the teak and ensure the vessel’s beauty and functionality while extending the deck’s life.
Spilled red wine or oil stains?
Clean up the spill immediately to prevent staining. These spills are the most difficult to manage and must be taken care of immediately because they permeate the porous wood fibres. The most important thing to remember is that stains must be ‘lifted’ and not diluted. Use a proven spot-lifter or stain remover (as a carpet one) to ‘lift’ the spill.
Never use harsh chemicals or solvents such as bleach, acetone, and vinegar. They will dilute the stain allowing further penetration into the teak wood. Keeping kitty litter (or a similar absorbent material) on board can be helpful for absorbing stains. Always remember that the longer spills or soiling are left untreated, the more difficult they are to remove.
Loose caulking?
If caulking is loose, repair it immediately to prevent water seepage under the teak deck. Follow these basic steps:
- Remove the old caulk with a Caulk Removal Tool
- Be sure to thoroughly clean out seams with a Seam Sander
- Clean the seams with an acetone saturated rag
- Once the seams are dry, apply tape to each edge of the seam
- Fill the seams with SIS 440 Caulk and use a putty knife to force caulk into the seam. Remove the tape immediately and allow the caulking to cure. Refer to Teakdecking Systems SIS 440 Application Guide for highly detailed information
Or watch the two-part video programs on Youtube: www.teakdecking.com/category/technical-blog-articles-about-decking/video/