Teak Oil

jason78

Active Member
TECHNICAL Contributor
Sep 3, 2008
3,662
Fort Mill, SC / Lake Wylie
Boat Info
1997 20 Outrage
Engines
200 Merc Offshore
Anyone have a recommendation on a good Teak Oil? I have a teak flooring insert I need to keep oiled. I am looking at possibly buying Interlux Premium Teak Oil. Comments?
 
Jason,

Teak oil is really just linseed oil with dye/stain. There is no advantage to spending extra for 'marine' teak oil (varnishes are a different story). I've found that Watco teak oil gives the best all round results. You can get it at HD or Lowes for about 10$ per quart. I use it on our floor grates for the cabin entry step and the head. I also use it on our teak deck furniture.

Henry
 
Make sure that any rags soaked in linseed oil are properly disposed of. I experienced a problem with spontanious combustion with one many years ago. Fortunately, it was discovered before it became a serious issue, but it was too hot to handle. These need to be soaked in water and then sealed in a can if wet, or allowed to dry out completely on a concrete floor prior to going in the trash.
 
I've tried more teak oils than I can count. I have been disappointed with many. The best, IMO, is Behlen Master Teak oil. Best color, best durability.
 
Bump! Flash forward 1 year. Still the same? I've read that Tung oil is better than Linseed. True? What do you guys (and gals) use? Any product better than the rest? Application process? Brush?... Rag? Please advise. Brian
 
Brian, I have exp with both oils. I would use tung oil if I were going to varnish. I'm not sure if I would use it just as a coating. My exp wit teak oils (many different ones) is they don't last long and some leave a sticky residue. That is the reason I went the varnish route and couldn't be happier. I know that the "plastic" look isn't everyones cup of tea but as far as maint... follow my steps on Aftica and it won't be beat.
 
Thanks Jason. I should have given more info. Cockpit table, limited direct sunlight and (hopefully) minimum water exposure. Looking to keep the natural look as much as possible. Same thoughts? Brian
 
OK, got ya. Have you ever tried Scott's Liquid gold? I use it on all of the interior wood that is out of the sun with it and it always looks really nice... Maybe someone will be able to help you out more as it has been a very long time since I've messed with Teak oil maybe its better now?
 
That is the reason I went the varnish route

+1 ^^^^

I just put the first coat of varnish on my exterior teak recently, and I love the results! I think oiling is overrated and too much work. However, since the OP is discussing interior trim, I suppose it is worth oiling, given it will not lose it's color/luster as quickly as exposed teak would. I will post pic's of my before/after results with the varnish in another thread.
 
I used to clean/oil every season, then someone turned me on to Cetol, and I love it.
 
Brian,

Watco Teak Oil. You can buy it at your local paint and hardware. It goes on well, will last for a season and will not turn gummy.

Henry
Henry, What finish is on your table in this photo? Regards, Brian
 

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Henry, What finish is on your table in this photo? Regards, Brian

When this photo was taken it was coated with Watco and kept that way for two years. But the Boss wanted a shiny table, and it ended up getting 8 coats of the Interlux poly varnish.

This step grate was made from the same boards as the table, and was oiled with the Watco at the same time in 2008 and has been in service since then (it looks the same now). It has been washed with boat wash (when the deck is washed) and stored inside in the winter.

P5250012.jpg


Henry
 
Last edited:
Make sure that any rags soaked in linseed oil are properly disposed of. I experienced a problem with spontanious combustion with one many years ago. Fortunately, it was discovered before it became a serious issue, but it was too hot to handle. These need to be soaked in water and then sealed in a can if wet, or allowed to dry out completely on a concrete floor prior to going in the trash.

Found a new way to torch my house...
 
Thanks everyone for your advice. I think I'll go with the Watco teak oil. I love the look of that on Henry's table and grate.
 
I took the teak items off the boat and cleaned them at home. I did some net surfing and came up with a nice system. I took the old piece (had not been oiled in years) and got it wet, then took Cascade dish washing liquid and coated the wood and let it sit for about 10 min. Nice and thick so it didnt really dry. Scrubbed off, and wow lotsa dirt and grome came off. I let the pieces dry, and applied 2 generous coats of teak oil. To extend the look, I added 2 coats of poly. This will be the second season, and from what I can see thus far, the teak still looks great.

As for oils, I tried 3 types, 1 marine and to regular off the shelf at lowes, and no difference.

**note** Cascade is acidic or caustic, cant remember which, and can tear up your hands pretty well. Wear gloves!
 

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