Teak Maintenance

[snows56]

Is it necessary to stain the bottom of a teak platform? It seems like it currently does not have a stain on the bottom, but it could have just worn off.

Also, one of the boards of the teak is warped. Any recommendation on the best way to fix this? I figured I might be able to clamp it down, but this will probably crack or split a board.

I looked through several of the teak threads and I could not find the answer to this, thanks for the help,

Matt

[Joeprunc]

I use teak oil on the bottom only when I unbolt the whole platform for refinishing. Otherwise its too much a mess. If I had a removable swim deck it may be a different story. I try to oil the top around once a month.

As far as warped boards, how bad is it?

[snows56]

it's not that bad... there is one spot in the very middle that protrudes up maybe about half an inch.

I have the platform off for refinishing now and I have already used stripper and TSP on the top, but I haven't started sanding or anything yet... so if it is important to do the bottom as well I figured now is a good time.

[Joeprunc]

While its off I would do the bottom...you have all winter to finish .
As far as the protrusion, I'm not a carpenter, maybe someone else could chime in.

[chpthril]

There shouldn't be any stain on the teak, I hope. Use just teak oil to condition it and also, id be careful what you use to strip the teak with. Id recommend only using a teak cleaner, unless the teak was stained or something that dose need to be removed. Yes, I would oil the bottom with at least one coat.

[snows56]

I used Savograns super strip to get the finish off the top, then TSP to clean it. I plan to use Sikkens Cetol Marine for the finish. Since the bottom doesn't look like it had any finish, I won't strip or sand it, I'll just put a coat or two of finish on it.
Thanks for the help.

[Joeprunc]

I've read that the Cetol is very durable, but is very slippery once in the water.

[snows56]

hm... I hadn't heard that, hopefully not too slippery cause I've already ordered the Cetol.

[M&M]

Sand with your Mouse sander or other electric sander, 150 grit is good. Cetol works great,not slick,lasts and won't snag a $100.00 bikini. About your warped board. Leave it alone or, sand it down with 80 grit about 1/6,1/8,or 1/4". If it is so bad it needs planed, use a hand planer. practice on another board first. You could buy a small pc of teak 1x2x12" and use as a nailer on the bottom to screw the high board and other boards to. Good luck. M&M 2000 20CI.