Should I coat the underside of teak with epoxy?

[mako172]

I have just finished restoring the original teak on my 17 using Cetol Light. Aside from the removal of the console and the sanding it was fairly easy. I plan on using silicone on the back to adhere the teak to the deck since that was how it was done originally.

My question is, should I coat the underside of the teak with epoxy to seal out moisture? Ive read a few threads recommending this but I dont know if it would be harmful or beneficial. I am not talking about an overcoat of the finish with epoxy.


Before

After

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Should I coat the underside of teak with epoxy?

Teak is an oily wood. Most teak fnishing products are oil based. You might check the cetrol for any oil in it. Epoxy will not stick to oil.

 

[Aviator5]

Re: Should I coat the underside of teak with epoxy?

There are some petroleum based varnishes for teak wood. I used it on my swim platform. Check with your marine supply store.

 

[lkbum]

Re: Should I coat the underside of teak with epoxy?

This is a really good question. As a rule of thumb, wood that is coated on only one side will cup or warp. Since you are sealing the top with oil, you would think it would be best to coat the bottom with something more permanent. Have you checked any wood finisihing sites?

 

[QC]

Re: Should I coat the underside of teak with epoxy?

Hey Mako. Curious about this now. I am moving it to the Restoration section as there are more woodworking experts over here. Good luck!!

 

[Yacht Dr.]

Re: Should I coat the underside of teak with epoxy?

Hello Mako..

Though personally I do not like Sikkins ( Cetol ) .. Its up to personal use and upkeep time.

Ive used a number of products ranging from "marine" varnish to "home" use varnish .. and other epoxies..

I would say that my best job done was from Minwa* spar varnish m8.

There are great products out there..but I think that Minwa* probably spends more on research and developement then other companies get in anual revenue.....

The trick with teak is to final sand .. ACETONE wipe .. then seal it with a thinned down varnish. the acetone will avaporate quickly leaving little oil on the surface therefor leaving the end pores of the wood to drink your coat.

Epoxy is somewhat of a nuance.. I would not recommend it unless its a clean prepped surface on interior teak. ( Ive seen sweet jobs with Awlgrip clear on insides of boats .. )

Teak is a constant upkeep no matter how you want to seal it ( undersides..out..sides..etc ). Just have to keep an eye on the varnish/sealer

YD.

 

[wa_ssv197]

Re: Should I coat the underside of teak with epoxy?

Read the Cetol can. I did Cetol Natural and it said to apply min. 3 coats.

Before

After

 

[Yacht Dr.]

Re: Should I coat the underside of teak with epoxy?

Hello again..

um.. I suggest you take those things off..and rub your boat out

YD.

 

[mako172]

Re: Should I coat the underside of teak with epoxy?

Thanks for the advice. I just finished putting the first undercoat of Cetol on the teak. Should help keep out moisture all around.

 

[saacmk1]

Re: Should I coat the underside of teak with epoxy?

Iv'e tried most spar varnishes, epoxies, urethanes etc but the one I like best is the Revolution by Supermarine. They say it is submersible for more than 40 years. The finish is AMAZINGLY smooth and glossy. Stand back, be sure the shades are on because it will blind ya. Heck, Awlgrip blisters at the first sign of moisture. Awlgrip levels nicely but don't get it wet! Learnt that the hard way.