Deck Caulk

[ddeaton]

Ok, I just caulked the seams on my hatch cover with one of the teak deck seam caulks on the market. I did the hatch cover first as a trial before the deck. They say it is sandable and is silcone based. It turned out nice. My question is, it looks, feels, and works just like silicon caulk. So what is the difference between this high price stuff and black silicone caulk from Home Depot?

[Nicholas Carey]

I dunno...it depends. What "teak deck seam caulk" are you using?

Some gicks are polysulfide. Other gicks are polyurethane. Some are probably silicone-based. And some are a mix of different chemistries. Some are one-part; others are two-part.

I suspect that the additives the manufacturer'sput in for UV resisitance, etc. probably makes a significant difference as well.

Only the chemists that formulate the stuff know for sure...and they're probably not telling.

[erster]

Most deck caulks, and for teak decks are polysufide or a rubber based caulk. The good stuff that seems to be the standard now in the industry is Detco, a two part mix. It has thiokol polymer base ingredient in it. You can scrub it with the harshish chemicals, place it the most tropical zones, and its pretty tough. The older Boat life was a single part that has also been used for the job.

http://www.detcomarine.com/dmpdts.htm

Anything short of this , I do not use, but others are using Sikaflex products for the flexible caulking now. There are other recommendations for solid planked seams, which was just covered in another thread.

[ddeaton]

Maritime Teak Deck Caulk is a one-part, air curing, oxime silicone adhesive/sealant specially formulated for caulking teak decks. It provides outstanding adhesion to teak and other naturally oily woods and requires no primer when used as directed. Maritime caulk stays permanently flexible to complement the expanding and contracting, as well as the flexing, of teak decking. Fast curing and sandable in 24 hours. There will be no air bubbles to create unsightly voids and gaps. Extremely high UV resistance for long life. No primer needed
This is what I used, not complaining about it at all, just curious. The stuff worked out great so far, although I would like suggestions on a good air caulk gun.
Danny