Teak decks are beautiful, durable, and provide excellent grip, but over time, they can develop leaks that lead to water damage and costly repairs. If you own a boat with a teak deck, regular maintenance is key to preventing leaks and extending the life of your deck.

In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Why teak decks leak
✅ Signs of a leaking teak deck
✅ Maintenance tips to prevent leaks
✅ How to repair a leaking teak deck

Why Do Teak Decks Leak?

Over time, wear and tear, exposure to sun and saltwater, and aging sealant can cause teak decks to leak. Here are the main culprits:

• Worn-out caulking – The black caulk between teak planks shrinks, cracks, or falls out, allowing water to seep through.

• Loose or missing screws – Many older teak decks are screwed down, and over time, the screws can loosen, letting water penetrate.

• Wood shrinkage – Teak naturally expands and contracts, and as it ages, it can shrink, opening gaps in the seams.

• Deck core damage – If water gets through the teak, it can rot the deck core, leading to serious structural issues.

Signs Your Teak Deck is Leaking

If you notice any of these signs, your teak deck may be leaking:

❌ Water stains or damp spots below deck
❌ Black or missing caulking between teak planks
❌ Soft or spongy spots when walking on deck
❌ Mildew, mold, or a musty smell inside the cabin
❌ Rusty or leaking screws in the deck

Catching a leak early can save you from expensive repairs down the road!

Teak Deck Maintenance to Prevent Leaks

Regular maintenance helps keep teak decks watertight and looking great. Here’s what you can do:

✔ Clean the deck properly – Use a soft brush and mild soap; avoid high-pressure washing, which can damage the wood and caulk.

✔ Re-caulk when needed – If caulking is cracked or missing, replace it before water gets in.

✔ Check screws and fasteners – Tighten loose screws or replace missing ones.

✔ Sand lightly when necessary – Over-sanding weakens the deck, so only do it when absolutely needed.

✔ Seal properly – Some boaters prefer to seal their teak decks, while others leave them untreated. If sealing, use a high-quality marine-grade sealer.

How to Repair a Leaking Teak Deck

If you already have leaks, here’s how to fix them:

1. Identify the Leak

• Check below deck for signs of water intrusion.
• Look for loose or damaged caulking and missing screws.

2. Remove Old Caulking

• Use a caulk removal tool or scraper to take out old, cracked caulk between planks.
• Clean the grooves thoroughly before reapplying.

3. Re-Caulk the Seams

• Apply marine-grade teak deck caulk using a caulking gun.
• Let it cure fully before walking on the deck.

4. Replace or Repair Damaged Planks

• If a plank is cracked or rotting, remove and replace it.
• Ensure it is properly bedded with marine adhesive to prevent leaks.

5. Address Core Damage (If Needed)

• If water has soaked into the deck core, you may need to remove sections of the deck and repair the core. This is a major repair but crucial to prevent further damage.

Final Thoughts: Stay on Top of Teak Deck Care

Teak decks are a stunning feature on any boat, but leaks can lead to major issues if not addressed. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and proper caulking can keep your teak deck in top shape for years to come.

If your deck is already leaking, act fast—the sooner you fix the issue, the less damage you'll have to deal with!