Teak treatment step-by-step plan

Teak maintenance

There are several options for teak maintenance, depending on the condition of the teak.

Below are the different options:

Option 1: Clean and Seal

Step 1: Thorough Cleaning

Use a professional two-component cleaner such as Semco Teak Cleaner :

  • Part 1 (red bottle) cleans deeply and removes dirt, oils, gray deposits and even old sealers.

  • Part 2 (green bottle) neutralizes and restores the warm color of the wood.

Method:

  1. First wet the surface thoroughly with water.

  2. Apply part 1 (spread over max 1 m² at a time), scrub lightly with a soft brush.

  3. Rinse and repeat with part 2 in the same manner.

  4. Rinse again and let the teak dry for at least 24 hours; the wood will lighten as it dries.

Step 2: Sealing

After cleaning and drying times you can apply the protective layer:

  • Semco Teak Sealer provides protection against moisture and UV, and preserves the natural appearance of the wood.

The Sealer provides at least 1 year of protection , so annual cleaning & sealing is sufficient.

Frequency

  • It's recommended to do this at least once a year in the spring (for example, in April). This way, you'll have beautifully maintained teak during the hot season and benefit optimally from the sealer's long-lasting protection.

  • A repeat later in the year (for example in the autumn) is not strictly necessary, but can do no harm if you want extra certainty, or if the boat is exposed to extreme weather conditions.


Option 2: Sanding and Sealing

Step 1: Light sanding (if necessary)

Sanding is not necessary every year:

  • On average, sanding once every 3–5 years is sufficient, unless you see rough spots, splinters or damage.

  • Use fine sandpaper or soft steel wool, always in the direction of the grain.

Step 2: Rest period

After sanding, let the wood rest for about three weeks before applying the sealer. This gives the wood time to settle and stabilize, ensuring optimal adhesion.

Step 3: Sealing

After the rest period, treat the wood again with Semco Teak Sealer , just like when cleaning, for protection against weather and sun.


Summary Plan

Element What you do Frequency
Cleaning & Sealing Use Semco Teak Cleaner (2-component) + Sealer Annual (spring)
Optional: extra layer of sealer apply an extra layer of sealer in extreme weather conditions every six months
Sanding (if damaged) Sand lightly and let it rest for 3 weeks, then seal. Every 3–5 years

Why this plan works

  • Efficient and durable : One annual maintenance service is sufficient thanks to the powerful action of Semco products.

  • Protection & Appearance : The combination of deep cleaning and sealing keeps your teak in optimal condition: fresh in color and protected from the elements.

  • Long-term care : Sanding delays the need for intensive treatment and prevents more serious damage.

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