Synthetic Teak Decking

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backinblue

backinblue

Guru
Joined
Jan 29, 2019
Messages
3,937
Location
USA
Vessel Name
Blue Moon
Vessel Make
Mainship Pilot 355
A couple seasons ago, I had Permateek decking installed over my non-skid in the cockpit, rear deck, and swim platform. There are a number of companies selling synthetic teak decking. After some research and a couple quotes I landed on Permateek. IMO, it's the best product of the bunch. It not only adds a lot to the appearance of the boat, but is also more functional, especially when wet. It's basically maintenance free and indestructible. Only downside, it can get a little hot when in full sun, vs. white non-skid. Thought it might be an interesting discussion and I can share my thoughts and experiences. I'll post some pictures soon.
 
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That looks GREAT!

Have been thinking of that for our boat which has a terrible previous non-skid job. Any interest in sharing cost/sqft?

One of my concerns is heavy stuff (chair legs, etc) causing indentations - any thoughts on that?
 
I used a Plasdeck product that was used both outside and inside my boat. My boat is wood hence mahogany on the outside. I thought the teek look would be a bit much for that colour of wood and went with a silver with white stripes decking, link below.

I have had many guys stop and talk to me about the decking and like the look on my boat:

https://www.plasdeck.com/marine-deck-product/plasdeck-silver-metallic-off-white-lines
 
I am very pleased with our Plas Deck synthetic teak deck. (see Bacchus webpage for pics & write-up)
I worked with the Co Pres and provided the template and they manufactured the decking and supplied help for a DIT install.

It is warm / hot in the sun but that's a small negative IMO - a spray from RW faucet or bucket of water easily take care of it.
As I recall the cost was around $35 / Sq Ft but memory isn't what ir used to be. Original was a little lower but I opted for a full margin board border to duplicate the traditional teak deck look. No problem at all with scuffs as it is pretty durable and I have sanded a couple areas that showed some scuffs. I typically clean it with a scotch bright pad and cleaner and use "woody wax" as a non-skid protectant.

What sold me was with factory build all seams are plastic welded - other choices were super glued planks and I questioned durability.

A simple dimensioned sketch and they will provide a budget quote.

We also have received MANY very positive comments thinking it was a factory option. Other envious owners in our marina have installed it.

I have used their PlasTeak for interior and also strongly recommend. I posted a thread on that project and can point others to it if interested.
 
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boathealer said:
That looks GREAT!

Have been thinking of that for our boat which has a terrible previous non-skid job. Any interest in sharing cost/sqft?

One of my concerns is heavy stuff (chair legs, etc) causing indentations - any thoughts on that?
Click to expand...

I'll have to look into cost and get back to you. Our boat is not big and was about 6K I think. I'll follow up with cost/sq ft. It's not cheap but worth it IMO.
No worries about dents. It looks and feels like real wood. If you didn't know, you would think you were on a real teak deck. Not the same with every product. Really good and grippy when wet. No more black footprints on white non-skid with morning dew. If you need to re-do nonskid, it's a good option. Try to look at some locally. Once I did I was sold.
 
rsn48 said:
I used a Plasdeck product that was used both outside and inside my boat. My boat is wood hence mahogany on the outside. I thought the teek look would be a bit much for that colour of wood and went with a silver with white stripes decking, link below.

I have had many guys stop and talk to me about the decking and like the look on my boat:

https://www.plasdeck.com/marine-deck-product/plasdeck-silver-metallic-off-white-lines
Click to expand...

Not sure about every product, but Permateek offers a variety of colors.
 
Looks terrific. Now a request for opinions. The teak on my aft deck needs to be recaulked in several places. The caulk is generally still viable in the rest of the deck but recaulking (big job) the entire deck is probably in order. So, now the question. Rather than recaulking, should I consider synthetic teak and forgo caulk completely? Please, no comments on personal preference for teak. I get that some folks would never consider this. I am looking for technical pros and cons.
 
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catalinajack said:
Looks terrific. Now a request for opinions. The teak on my aft deck needs to be recaulked in several places. The caulk is generally still viable in the rest of the deck but recaulking (big job) the entire deck is probably in order. So, now the question. Rather than recaulking, should I consider synthetic teak and forgo caulk completely? Please, no comments on personal preference for teak. I get that some folks would never consider this. I am looking for technical pros and cons.
Click to expand...

I would suggest you look for a local installer, I assume it can be installed over existing decking, but not 100% certain. You could also email my installer. Even though he is not local, he would likely answer any questions, good guy. The synthetic should be long life and maintenance free once complete. It's not cheap, my boat was almost $7k, but a good upgrade that should add value. The installer will work with you on design details and then create templates which he sends to the factory to manufacture the deck panels which then are glued down to your existing deck.
 
Bacchus said:
I am very pleased with our Plas Deck synthetic teak deck. (see Bacchus webpage for pics & write-up)
I worked with the Co Pres and provided the template and they manufactured the decking and supplied help for a DIT install.

It is warm / hot in the sun but that's a small negative IMO - a spray from RW faucet or bucket of water easily take care of it.
As I recall the cost was around $35 / Sq Ft but memory isn't what ir used to be. Original was a little lower but I opted for a full margin board border to duplicate the traditional teak deck look. No problem at all with scuffs as it is pretty durable and I have sanded a couple areas that showed some scuffs. I typically clean it with a scotch bright pad and cleaner and use "woody wax" as a non-skid protectant.

What sold me was with factory build all seams are plastic welded - other choices were super glued planks and I questioned durability.

A simple dimensioned sketch and they will provide a budget quote.

We also have received MANY very positive comments thinking it was a factory option. Other envious owners in our marina have installed it.

I have used their PlasTeak for interior and also strongly recommend. I posted a thread on that project and can point others to it if interested.
Click to expand...

Nice looking job! Did you also do swim platform? I did not do the side decks on my boat because there is no break between them and the bow like you have.
 
backinblue said:
Nice looking job! Did you also do swim platform? I did not do the side decks on my boat because there is no break between them and the bow like you have.
Click to expand...
Thanks
I did not do the swim platform and don't wish I did or feel a need. All depends on the boat and how you use it. A friend did his aft deck and platform on his Tiara as they were more tied together.
 
Bacchus said:
Thanks
I did not do the swim platform and don't wish I did or feel a need. All depends on the boat and how you use it. A friend did his aft deck and platform on his Tiara as they were more tied together.
Click to expand...

I understand, was just curious. Nice job considering you did all the work yourself. More than I wanted to take on.
 
backinblue said:
I understand, was just curious. Nice job considering you did all the work yourself. More than I wanted to take on.
Click to expand...
Doing template not too bad and 1 man job.
I had 2 friends help w install but not really to bad. It helped to have one spreading adhesive, one rolling it in place and a 3rd set of hands for rags solvent, and periodic cleaning of trowel. My 4 pieces took one afternoon.
I can help w tips if ever interested in DIY.
 
catalinajack said:
Looks terrific. Now a request for opinions. The teak on my aft deck needs to be recaulked in several places. The caulk is generally still viable in the rest of the deck but recaulking (big job) the entire deck is probably in order. So, now the question. Rather than recaulking, should I consider synthetic teak and forgo caulk completely? Please, no comments on personal preference for teak. I get that some folks would never consider this. I am looking for technical pros and cons.
Click to expand...
I was sorta thinking the same thing, though not for myself. There are so many Taiwan trawlers with leaky decks was wondering if removing old teak, then doing some rough fiberglass over (repair any rot, of course), then the synthetic teak. Maybe it would be less expensive look better, and hold up better?

Again, not for me, but there are so many people who ping this forum for advice on new-to-them trawlers and such, thought it might be a good recommendation.

Peter
 
catalinajack said:
Looks terrific. Now a request for opinions. The teak on my aft deck needs to be recaulked in several places. The caulk is generally still viable in the rest of the deck but recaulking (big job) the entire deck is probably in order. So, now the question. Rather than recaulking, should I consider synthetic teak and forgo caulk completely? Please, no comments on personal preference for teak. I get that some folks would never consider this. I am looking for technical pros and cons.
Click to expand...

I recaulked my sundeck a couple if years ago. It was literally the worst job I have ever done on the boat or any of the previous 22 boats we have owned. Maybe my age and poor back condition is part of why this was so bad. I will never do it again. I would tear off the teak and lay some glass down and the Kiwigrip the deck.
 
Will synthetic hurt the boats value?

I am debating on whether to replace the dirty interior carpet with teak and Holley 1/2 inch plywood veneer or synthetic teak and Holley. Likely Nuteak. I like the look of the synthetic and the durability of the factory finish. I have a 2006 Mainship 400. I have enjoyed past threads on the issue and Bachus’s site. I used plywood for new floorboards for my sailboat and have the shop and skills to do either.
Q1? Will using synthetic be negative on resale? i.e. be viewed as not as desirable?

Q2? Any other advantages or disadvantages? The purchase price is running about equal.

Thanks. Paul
 
PaulB. said:
I am debating on whether to replace the dirty interior carpet with teak and Holley 1/2 inch plywood veneer or synthetic teak and Holley. Likely Nuteak. I like the look of the synthetic and the durability of the factory finish. I have a 2006 Mainship 400. I have enjoyed past threads on the issue and Bachus’s site. I used plywood for new floorboards for my sailboat and have the shop and skills to do either.
Q1? Will using synthetic be negative on resale? i.e. be viewed as not as desirable?

Q2? Any other advantages or disadvantages? The purchase price is running about equal.

Thanks. Paul
Click to expand...

Either would be a big improvement over carpet. I'd probably give the nod to teak and holly over syn-teak, but I doubt there is a big negative to going with the teak. Do your research, not all are created equal.
 
Appreciate the acknowledgement.
I really like the Plasteak sheet with the thin cushion layer. It is noticeably different under foot from the same Mainship factory sheet flooring.
If you had a high end yacht with other natural teak & Holly sole using synthetic might be viewed as a negative... not on a Mainship IMO.
I think both of the synthetic decking projects I have done have added value to our MS. I certainly get many positive compliments.
 
Another attractive solution that is sort of between carpet and synthetic decking is Corinthian marine "carpet". My Tiara friend used it under his hardtop and Plasdeck on his swim deck. Corinthian is a woven /no pile carpet that is washable. Can be glued down or left lose / removable. Available in many colors and patterns as well as various shades of teak & holly / caulked teak looking styles.
It is very good looking and practical in some situations IMO.
 
Bacchus said:
Another attractive solution that is sort of between carpet and synthetic decking is Corinthian marine "carpet". My Tiara friend used it under his hardtop and Plasdeck on his swim deck. Corinthian is a woven /no pile carpet that is washable. Can be glued down or left lose / removable. Available in many colors and patterns as well as various shades of teak & holly / caulked teak looking styles.
It is very good looking and practical in some situations IMO.
Click to expand...

My boat came with that carpet. Snapped in place. I didn't like it, looked cheap. You could also do this, but I wouldn't recommend it.

https://www.amazon.com/Synthetic-Re...keywords=synthetic+teak&qid=1610802871&sr=8-6
 
Hey Baachus, if you find yourself down the western and of the canal this summer, stop by Erie - I'd love for you to oversee my PlasTeak install this summer! I got a quote in September 2020 for just the aft cockpit of my 400, $2,600 for 214 sq ft. I'm inclined to go do the side decks like you did, too, and maybe even stairs to flybridge. $38 per square foot for no border, $40 for the border (the only way to go AFAIK).



Did you use their glue, how many tubes?


How far past the original non-skid diamonds did you cover into the smooth?


Does the glue seal out to the edge, or is there any room for water/gunk/chemicals to collect under the outside edge?


Your installation does look fantastic on the project PDF! Great job! ope to see you soon in your travels!
Brian
 
Synth over wood? No way

catalinajack said:
Looks terrific. Now a request for opinions. The teak on my aft deck needs to be recaulked in several places. The caulk is generally still viable in the rest of the deck but recaulking (big job) the entire deck is probably in order. So, now the question. Rather than recaulking, should I consider synthetic teak and forgo caulk completely? Please, no comments on personal preference for teak. I get that some folks would never consider this. I am looking for technical pros and cons.
Click to expand...

IMHO putting synthetic product over real teak is asking for real problems. Teak will become permanently wet and will rot in spite of how well teak resists. I’ve had similar products (SeaDek) on previous boat and loved it, but applied over fiberglass.
 
TrawlerAJ said:
Hey Baachus, if you find yourself down the western and of the canal this summer, stop by Erie - I'd love for you to oversee my PlasTeak install this summer! I got a quote in September 2020 for just the aft cockpit of my 400, $2,600 for 214 sq ft. I'm inclined to go do the side decks like you did, too, and maybe even stairs to flybridge. $38 per square foot for no border, $40 for the border (the only way to go AFAIK).

Summer cruise plans very uncertain at this time... and I don't work cheap! Advice is free or do barter for adult beverages!
Let me know if you get anywhere near Seneca Lk.



Did you use their glue, how many tubes?
Yes used the supplied adhesive and had plenty + extra left. My MS non-skid not very aggressive so not a lot of filling req'd
I spanned the smooth dividers between N-S sections w/ adhesive and the decking to avoid many small sections and breaks between. You can either fill / level ahead and let dry or fill as you go w/ adhesive. If filling as you go you have to be careful when rolling to not cause a depression. Have to span any gaps with the roller vs rolling into the gap and depressing. Also need boards / plywood to stand, walk, kneel on while working or you create depressions in the soft adhesive.


How far past the original non-skid diamonds did you cover into the smooth?
I stayed outside but fairly close to the non-skid borders in most areas. Did try to get as close to the vertical cabin sides so went into the radius at the bottom.
My buddy with the Tiara did his swim deck w/ Plasdeck and had difficulty due to his very aggressive non-skid. Used more adhesive (ran out) and edges didn't seal well. Had to go back and fill / smooth around edges after getting more adhesive. If very aggressive N-S deck I would recommend sanding / grinding at least a taper at edges and knocking off the hi spots.


Does the glue seal out to the edge, or is there any room for water/gunk/chemicals to collect under the outside edge?
See above mine sealed well and smoothed at edge as I
progressed. I laid the decking dry, positioned where desired and marked around edges with pencil to provide a guide for spreading adhesive accurately but adequately.


Your installation does look fantastic on the project PDF! Great job! Hope to see you soon in your travels!
Brian
Click to expand...

I used a clear N-S sheet product for gunnels at boarding locations when we first got our MS. They didn't last very long as sun really beat them up and started to peel. After I finished the decking I decided to buy some of the wide DIY teak material and custom cut step pads at the boarding locations. Used the same adhesive and worked out well. Matches decking, looks great, not slippery and seems to very durable. Easy to cut and sand / radius edges similar to factory where cut.

Happy to discuss tips, tricks more - PM if a phone discussion would be better.
 
backinblue said:
https://www.amazon.com/Synthetic-Re...keywords=synthetic+teak&qid=1610802871&sr=8-6
Click to expand...

I actually order (and returned) that, just to see what it is. I can't say that it isn't what it promises to be -- it is, exactly.

But, it is a very soft and spongy foam, not like PlasTeak all, which is I guess what I should have expected, as it is EVA foam.

I don't think I'd want it in any type of high traffic area or any area where things are going to routinely get dragged or poked.
 
Bacchus, sorry it's taken me so long to respond to this thread. That's all excellent info! I'd be happy to take you up on work-for-beer! I come to your stomping grounds often (pre covid). Um!!! I just realized that I met you a couple of summers ago!!!! I used to work at Hobart & William Smith. A few coworkers still get together at Sampson almost every summer. I talked to you and your wife a couple summers ago! What a small world!



Thanks again for the info, it all makes perfect sense. The aft cockpit on the 400 isn't much different than yours.



Brian
 
TrawlerAJ said:
Bacchus, sorry it's taken me so long to respond to this thread. That's all excellent info! I'd be happy to take you up on work-for-beer! I come to your stomping grounds often (pre covid). Um!!! I just realized that I met you a couple of summers ago!!!! I used to work at Hobart & William Smith. A few coworkers still get together at Sampson almost every summer. I talked to you and your wife a couple summers ago! What a small world!



Thanks again for the info, it all makes perfect sense. The aft cockpit on the 400 isn't much different than yours.



Brian
Click to expand...

You can buy plenty of beer for the labor you'll save. It's a great upgrade, I'm sure you'll like the result.
 
Brian
I could be convinced to "consult" and supervise if you want to visit the new marina at Sampson. I have a hand roller, trowels etc thats available if you do.
I cant say I remember but might remember a face.

Reminds me of a funny story... had exchanged many emails with cruisers prior to our 2019 cruise to Georgian Bay... TF, GL Cruising Club, etcm etc

Well we pulled into a beautiful bay to anchor.., had a few other boats already there. Set the hook, put out a stern line and decided to dingy over to the closest sailboat. As I approached the capt was dinghies my way... met in the middle and he says... you must be Don.
With a deer in the headlights look and mouth wide open as I know a few sailboaters but many and didn't think any on GB.
Turned out he was a friend of a friend from GLCC that had sent us some recommendation but had never met or even spoken live. Small world indeed!
Don
 
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