Imitation Teak for Exterior Deck

[DCMY #92]

I've used outdoor carpet for years on my exterior aft deck. Good carpet is OK, but is a pain when it has to be removed for hurricane prep. I'd like to install a more permanent surface. Flexiteek and similar products sound good, but the shop where the boat is undergoing the refit says they have had poor experience with these products. I'd appreciate any reviews and testimonials from folks who have used these products in an exterior environment.

 

[Steve Mannshardt]

I have a 53' YF and extensive exterior Flexiteek. No problems of any kind with the product.

 

[SeaEric]

I used to sell and install Flexiteek and am not longer involved in that. The product is good but it does tend to darken a lot over time. Get actual samples of the material in various colors. Look at the back of the sample - that is the color that it will eventually become.

Plasdeck is similar and IMO now has better looking colors than Flexiteek. I'm not familiar with their deck panel construction or install process.

Nuteak is a private label Flexiteek product that is made by one of the same companies that produces Flexiteek. Nuteak deck panels get glued together instead of heat welded.

Look at all of them and get several quotes. It's a very competitive business. If you can get someone to make the deck panels for you, if you're handy you can probably DIY the install. The key to a good job is in the making of the deck template. There are some tricks and tips to follow on template and install - many are on the web. Check youtube. This stuff is pricey. You don't want to screw it up. If you have any doubts get a seasoned installer to do the project.

As always - YMMV.

 

[rob71]

I installed Permateek decking on the aft deck of my 43DCMY.
As this area gets wet and spilled on, I was replacing the carpet every year.
It has been almost 1 year and I love the Permateek.
Ditto on careful patterning. After the professional builds it then install is very easy.

Capt. Rob