Wish we could give you specific advice on Teak, but our plan is to replace most of the teak on our boat with something else, mainly because it's too expensive to replace the teak!!!!  Do some research on the quality of the teak (e.g., Java vs Brazilian).  We're not real sure which is better...   Like I said, we're trying to find less expensive, but nice alternatives for the teak on our boat.  Let us know if you get any more specific advice!!! 

Thanks for the feed-back... I

No, no teak decks (thank God!)  Just good old figerglass!  We have some teak strips (decorative) and grab rails on the deck. Also lots of teak below deck.  We're mainly looking at replacing the stuff above deck with something else...maybe metal grab rails and painted-on stripe instead of teak strip.  Not sure yet...

So, what kinda sailboat do you have???

Karen

There are actually several different options for teak substitutes. I bought an older Correct Craft and the platform on it was all but gone. One of my millwork suppliers suggested Purple Heart as an alternative. Seems he got an order for some outdoor furniture made of this and says it turned out great. Purple Hart is exactly what the name implies, it's a bright purple colored wood, but it tends to "silver" when exposed to the elements. It's very dense and very rot resistant. I got enough to refabricate the platform on the Correct Craft and will restore the boat soon. I really see no reason this stuff won't hold up just fine.

I made a long bow several years back with Purple Heart.  Great stuff!!!

I also made a battle axe handle with it and it holds up well to use.

I used to Joust and do choreographed combat when I was younger and dumber!!!

We have some park benches made of a hard, dense wood that I believe is called camden. Over the last 3 years it has weathered nicely. It does not need any preservative or protection.

Funny you should ask this, I just bought a teak set that will arrive this weekend. It came from arthurlauer.com

It's a bit pricey, but high quality and should last a lifetime.

I'll let you know what I think of it after it arrives.

Never heard of Purple Heart.  We'll have to check it out!!!

Good heart-of-the-tree teak should last a lifetime.