Iroko is the new Teak
- March 10th, 2023
There is quite some stirrup in the boating industry since the embargo against the military dictatorship in Myanmar. Teak is off the market and the stocks are depleting rapidly. Teak price has already risen and also news from the first people prosecuted for dealing with the so-called “Blood-Teak” are in the gazettes. So, how to supplant this – otherwise great – material in boatbuilding? I´ve talked to Beneteau´s man in charge for the Oceanis sailboats, Valentin Moreau.
I asked him to join me in a video session from his office in the French Vendeé because we received an internal announcement from the yard that they have finally decided which new material would be come the successor of the Teak. This time it´s a tropical timber called “Iroko” from a nice looking tree that has the name Milicea. It has many names, one of which is “African Teak”, so here we have already one connection, I´d say. Let´s start with Valentin.
Talking to Valentin Moreau of Beneteau
Lars Reisberg | NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “Hi Valentin. Thanks for sharing your time with me. Now, first of all, does it feel good to have a solution for the Teak-question at hand? Was it a tough time for Beneteau not knowing how to supplant Teak?”
Valentin Moreau | BENETEAU: “Hello Lars. It has been a year and half now that we started working on different solutions to supplant the Teak. I cannot say that we haven’t been afraid facing the news of “the end of Teak” because it has been very quick between the announcement of the embargo and the end of the supply. But, since Covid and all the other things happening, we are used to deal with parts missing or coming late, we´ve become very resilient in that matter. For the Teak, our wood experts have been working on alternative solutions for a year and now we are ready.”
NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “We all love to have this natural material on our boats and this is for sure good news. To get a feeling for this, let´s talk numbers for the start: How many tons (or square meters if that is better) of Teak-deck has Beneteau made per year in normal times?”
Valentin: “Honestly, we don’t know the exact data but a lot for sure – as the world´s biggest yard for pleasure craft, we are talking about thousands of boats. That’s why we are not just talking about replacing Teak with Iroko, but we will have to build up a complete new supply chain with new partners and help them to ramp up production. We’ve been using only teak for years because it is a very traditional material in boat building. Iroko aside, there is more than one choice for decking now. We are offering broader boating experiences through the sailboat and powerboat ranges and this will come with a variety of solutions for the specific uses. For traditional look and feel, the Iroko will be the solution, but we will also propose alternative products such as foam decking for a more sporty use, for our First 36 for example, or, on our powerboat ranges, synthetic teak and woven vinyl.”
NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “Excess catamarans, for example, went for Cork decking . Hallberg-Rassy has their artificial “green plastic” Teak-supplement: Why did Beneteau go for Iroko?”
Valentin: “It was simply the best solution according to the use and the clients needs. We selected Iroko also because it is in our view the best compromise between aesthetics, the weight and the price. For the sailboats Iroko is the best solution for sure. The aesthetic is the same as the teak. A little story on the First 44 introduced at Paris boat show last year : If we haven’t told our guests that is was not teak, nobody would have seen anything! We use to say at Beneteau that our Iroko introduction will be a “non-event” because the solution is very similar to the teak, but from forests managed in a better way.”
NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “I have been able to check on the First 44 during the last boat shows, the new Iroko-deck looks like massive wood, but its not: Can you explain how the Iroko is processed and what makes the new decking material special?”
Valentin: “You are right, it’s not solid wood. We know that a solid wood has a high risk of deformation, for example if you cut a solid wood board from any tree, you have 100 per cent chance to get that board bent after a while outside. That is why we work with plywood, it’s much more stable. In our case, the Iroko solution is like the ALPI wood, it’s layers of thin slice of wood glued together and cut not like plywood but vertically. It means you see the layers from the top and not the side. That process is for sure the best way to get a very stable wood deck floor, very resistant over the year with a uniform colorful.”
NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “What are the principal material properties of this processed Iroko?”
Valentin: “Our Iroko deck has almost the same properties as the Teak. It’s a red wood with very good properties for staying outside, with the same classification as the Teak. When we receive the wood deck at Beneteau the material is yellow which seems a bit odd. But that´s only with freshly cut Iroko. After three days outside it gets orange-brown and looks exactly the same as Teak. Of course, it will become grey after months, also exactly same as the Teak. The only difference will be when you will grind the surface the maintain your deck, it will get yellow back, then orange brown then grey again.”
NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “After some research you will see that the base product Iroko is a rain forest tree from Africa. How can Beneteau make sure it is sourced in a fair and sustainable way?”
Valentin: “Yes, the tree is from Guinea. As our principal partner we have chosen a well known French supplier, the Groupe Arbor, who has facilities in France and in Guinea. They are of course FSC-certified which is the most known label to make sure the forest is managed in a sustainable way, either for the forest itself and for the employees.”
NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “As far as I remember correctly, Bavaria tried massive Iroko decking some ten years ago and they had dozens of decks destroyed: How long did Beneteau test the new processed decking to make sure something like this does not happen with Oceanis and Gran Turismo-yachts?”
Valentin: “Sure, we also have tried massive Iroko as well some ten years ago and we have learned from that. Working with massive Iroko is not a good solution: The solid wooden battens are not stable over the years, the color is not stable neither and you get splinters. However we are absolutely confident that the new Iroko solution a good way. The “nervosity” of the wood is, in a way, controlled by the processing and plywood-cutting.”
NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “What about the pricing of the new Iroko-decking material? Is it cheaper, more expensive or at the same price level as Teak?”
Valentin: “Well, to be honest, the price was a big part of the challenge. And as usual, it was also a part of the compromise. When we did choose to go for Iroko the calculations indicated that the price would be absolutely similar to that of the Teak.”
NO FRILLS SAILING.com: “Last not least, Valentin: When will Beneteau offer Iroko for all its boats to have a complete offer, just like it was with Teak before?”
Valentin: “Well … now! As we are speaking the switching from Teak to Iroko is announced. This March we started for the sailboats and we will update the options lists very soon.”
Thanks so much, Valentin, and let´s see how the new Iroko-solution works for the future boat owners.
Also from this series:
Supplanting Teak in boatbuilding
Is sustainable boatbuilding even possible?
Sapeli Mahogany: Another Teak-alternative?
Iroko Wood – Characteristics, Uses, Pros and Cons
We have limited options when we are looking for durable, stable, and naturally rot-resistant wood. Some popular wood species with such properties are Maple , Poplar , Alder , Beech, Ash, Iroko and many others. Iroko holds unique properties that are cheaper than many other hardwoods.
Table of Contents
What is Iroko Wood?
Iroko is a durable and stable hardwood that ranges in color from golden brown to brown, color tends to be dark with age. Iroko wood is able to withstand prolonged exposure to moisture because it contains resin that prevents it from absorbing moisture. This is the main reason why it is often used for outdoor applications and is highly demanded for use in decking and construction of boats.
Iroko wood comes from large deciduous hardwood trees, and the Iroko tree grows to an average of 130 feet (50 meters). It is also known as African Teak and is native to tropical regions of Africa.
Here are some of the key properties of iroko wood:
| Scientific Name | Milicia excelsa and M. regia |
| Tree Size | 100-130 ft (30-40 m) tall, 3-5 ft (1-1.5 m) trunk diameter |
| Janka Hardness | 1,260 lbf (5,610 N) |
| Average Dried Weight | 41.2 lbs/ft3 (660 kg/m3) |
| Durability | Very durable |
| Rot resistance | Good |
| Insect resistance | Good |
| Workability | Easy to work with hand tools and machines |
| Finishability | Takes finishes well |
What is Iroko wood used for?
Iroko Wood is commonly used for furniture, veneer, flooring, cabinetry, boatbuilding, and decorative small items. It is naturally rot and insect resistant, so this wood can be used for all outdoor and indoor purposes.
Iroko wood is primarily used for outdoor decking because it is naturally resistant to decay and moisture and does not require any preservative treatment. Iroko decks can last about 50+ years with low maintenance.
Durable and stable Iroko wood is a popular choice for hardwood floors; it not only gives your home a natural look but also withstands everyday wear and tear. Due to the high hardness of the wood, it is less prone to scratches and dents than other woods.
Boatbuilding
Iroko wood is generally known as one of the best boatbuilding materials. Wood is a dense, hard, and strong wood containing natural chemicals that prevent rotting.
Iroko Wood is a favourite wood for wood carvers as it shapes well with the right tools and gives excellent results after finishing.
Iroko wood Appearance
The heartwood of Iroko Wood can be rich golden to medium brown, and the sapwood is pale yellow, which can be easily distinguished from the heartwood. When freshly cut, it has a warm and reddish hue.
Like most hardwoods, it also turns dark brown over time. The process of color change can be slowed down through staining or sealing.
Iroko wood is strong and durable because it has an interlocked pattern. This pattern also makes it look nice with depth and beauty.
Advantages of Iroko Wood
Aesthetic appeal.
Iroko wood has an attractive appearance. Generally, it has golden or medium brown but changes to a darker brown when exposed to the sunlight. Its fine, interconnected grain pattern adds to its visual appeal.
Durability and Stability
Iroko wood is incredibly durable. Many woodworkers believe that the lifespan of Iroko wood is approximately 100 years for indoor use and 50 to 60 years for outdoor.
Iroko wood is incredibly strong and dense. Its interlocked grain pattern provides excellent strength, making it a good choice for situations where it needs to withstand heavy loads without bending or warping over time.
Resistance to Insects and Pests
Iroko wood is naturally resistant to insects and pests. Natural oils present in wood which act as a deterrent to insects. Therefore, it does not require treatment for indoor projects.
Ease of Workability
Even though iroko wood is a dense hardwood, it is relatively easy to shape using both the right hand and machine tools. Its density may be challenging for beginners. But overall, it’s a woodworker’s favourite wood.
Low Maintenance
Homeowners prefer furniture that requires minimal maintenance. Iroko is one such wood which requires less maintenance than other hardwoods.
Disadvantages of Iroko Wood
Compared to some other wood species, Iroko wood can be relatively expensive. Its cost can be a significant drawback for budget-conscious projects. But its price is justified due to its durability/lifespan and other unique features.
Allergic Reactions
Iroko wood has been reported as a sensitizer, and woodworkers may experience common eye and skin irritation problems when working with it.
Availability
Wood is not widely available, and sometimes, it can take a lot of effort to obtain the required size of wood for projects.
Iroko Wood Hardness
Iroko is a medium-density hardwood; the hardness of iroko wood on the Janka scale is 1,260 lbf (5,610 N ), and the average dry weight is 41.2 lb/ft3 (660 kg/m3), which is even higher than popular hardwoods like oak and maple.
High hardness provides durability and strength. Its ability to withstand wear and impact makes it popular for longevity applications such as decks and floors.
Is Iroko Wood Expensive?
Iroko wood is relatively expensive compared to other hardwoods. It is appreciated for its exceptional durability and resistance to decay, insects, and fungal attacks. Iroko trees grow relatively slowly, taking several decades to reach maturity.
Is Iroko Wood Sustainable?
The high demand for Iroko wood has raised concerns about deforestation in its native regions. The Iroko species is listed on the IUCN Red List. Due to the continuous harvesting of M. regia its population has decreased by about 20% in the last Three generations.
We hope that in the next few decades, the population of Iroko will be controlled, and we will be able to use this excellent wood without any worry.
Is Iroko Wood Waterproof?
Iroko wood is not waterproof, but it is highly water resistant. If you plan to use Iroko wood for a purpose that is exposed to moisture/water most of the time, such as a boat, you should seal it before using it.
Iroko wood contains large amounts of natural oils/resins. These resins act as waterproofing for the wood, making it naturally resistant to moisture absorption.
Is there an Alternative to Iroko Wood?
While Iroko wood has unique characteristics, teak and mahogany also have similar properties as Iroko. Which also provides durability and aesthetic appeal.
Can Iroko Wood be Stained or Finished?
Yes, Iroko wood can be stained or finished to achieve the desired color and appearance, although many woodworkers prefer to let its natural beauty shine through.
Is Iroko wood good for outdoor use?
Yes, Iroko wood is resistant to moisture and extreme weather, making it an excellent choice for outdoor projects like decking and furniture.
Practical Boat Owner
- Digital edition
Boat wood: a complete guide for yacht owners
- lyndonmarch
- November 2, 2023
Boatbuilder and finisher Lyndon March explains which types of wood work best for different repairs and modifications on board
Whether you’re building a boat from scratch or making repairs, knowing which wood will work best for the job is essential. Credit: Dmitriy Shironosov/Alamy Credit: Dmitriy Shironosov/Alamy
Repairs, replacements and restorations are very much part and parcel of boat ownership.
At some point most of us will have to tackle a small, niggling woodwork repair ourselves, or undertake a larger-scale project.
However, are you making the correct choices when it comes to choosing the timber to use?
Like most items associated with boats, there is not a definitive right or wrong approach, but guidance is useful.
We often think of stout working boats as built of larch or oak and finer yachts dripping in teak and mahogany.
This is not always the golden rule though.
You may be able to source reclaimed teak to make repairs to small areas of deck
It’s worth keeping in mind the three key points when looking for the right wood for your project: durability, movement and structural integrity.
If your choice in material is informed by these golden rules you can make smart decisions and execute a lasting repair or update to your vessel.
Most commonly it’s the high-impact areas of a boat that require renewing, like grab rails, rubbing strakes and toe rails.
Exposed, vulnerable and rarely finished with more than a simple oil, these are the parts of the vessel that take a pounding during the season, doing very little for the longevity of the timber.
For most craft manufactured pre-1990, these areas will almost certainly be made of teak.
Owners are advised to look after teak with careful cleaning to increase its life, especially as teak is scarce.
Grab rails and toe rails are often made of teak, so look after them. Credit: William Payne Photography
However, if it does need replacing, you may be able to grab a bargain on the second-hand market, given the small amount of wood you’re likely to need.
Teak is a wonderful material, with an ability to weather gently and an almost self-oiling quality.
It also fits all of our key points – scoring highly on durability and movement as well as structural integrity.
Teak can also be used almost anywhere in a vessel; as demonstrated in my own 1901 rowing dinghy which is entirely built of teak.
Fortunately, but not without some hunting around, there are small quantities of teak still lurking in timber yards around the country, and certain specialists such as Trinity Marine carry stocks of reclaimed teak; however, it is expensive and requires some careful machining to minimise wastage.
There are big challenges in sourcing teak which is legal and ecologically sustainable.
Boat wood: Alternatives to teak
Being realistic about the affordability of the wonderful oily teak forces us to look within the mahogany family or iroko.
Both meet our three golden rules; with iroko giving us a bit more structural integrity and providing much more durability in the weather if left uncoated or oil finished.
Khaya, sapele and utile mahoganies will easily hold up as toe rails and rubbing strakes and, much like iroko, give us wonderful grain results but really require a varnish to add protection and longevity.
A future world without the availability of teak forces us to look at other areas of our vessels that might need repairs; decks, cockpit gratings , hatches and skylights.
Mahogany needs varnishing in order to protect the wood and increase longevity
If these are teak, then it pays to look after them.
Those of us fortunate enough not to have a traditional laid deck might still have deck planking or at least deck coverings.
It’s not uncommon for vessels to have a teak-clad deck or at least some teak trim, pulpit perches or cockpit locker lids.
Years of enthusiastic deck scrubbing, clumsy feet, or gentle sanding often leave teak decks in a bad state of repair, with the screw plugs barely hanging on for life.
For smaller sections, you may be able to hunt down some elusive teak but for bigger areas of decking, you’ll need to look for an alternative.
Iroko can be matched to existing teak, which makes it ideal for decking. Credit: Hazel McCabe
Iroko could be the perfect alternative to teak. Unfortunately, it’s not particularly nice to work with and some people have suffered allergic reactions to it, so it’s advisable to don personal protective equipment (PPE) when working with iroko.
Iroko can, however, provide you with a teak-style of deck that should give a hardly noticeable match to existing teak.
It can be left to weather or be oiled and varnished with stunning results.
If you’re replacing a large area, or laying all new decking , I’d recommend taking some inspiration from the working boat scene.
Douglas fir or larch are easy to machine and suitable for glueing to a subdeck.
They meet nearly all of the three golden rules, and age to a lovely even-weather grey colour, much like untreated teak.
Both are also soft underfoot for those barefoot sailors among us.
But they do have one disadvantage: neither last as well as teak, with maybe a 10- to 15-year lifespan depending on how well the wood has been cared for.
Keeping boat wood healthy
On a well-kept and regularly sailed vessel, it’s unusual to find fungal issues on deck timbers and fittings – a regular dousing of salt water tends to keep this problem at bay.
Deck fixtures, however, tend to suffer from wearing out or damage and occasionally UV-related issues.
The less saturated and inaccessible sections of our boats can play host to fungi; even wonderfully oiled teak and varnished mahogany can be no match for a lack of ventilation.
Mast foots, cockpit lockers, cabin soles and interior joinery all suffer.
Mostly it’s cost-effective to replace like for like.
Most vessels have been fitted out with hardwood-trimmed plywood panels bonded together and then bonded to the vessel.
In areas of little ventilation, wood can rot. It is usually best to replace like for like
This is still a great approach, as plywood is simple to bond and use, as well as providing structural integrity, movement and durability.
It also means that huge amounts of extra internal weight are not being added down below; important for a well-balanced boat.
We shouldn’t just limit ourselves to painted white plywood with hardwood trim.
The replacement of interior joinery gives us a chance to amplify the space, and there are lots of kits and tutorials on how to add a veneer or carbon wrap to your plywood.
No matter how large or small the repair is, you should consider ventilation in the area where the wood is being replaced.
Look at coating the edges of the plywood and investing in marine-grade quality plywood.
Continues below…
Best boat varnish: 7 top options for gleaming woodwork
Few things are as quintessential to the archetypal sailboat as gleaming, iridescent woodwork that is indicative of a recent coat…
Replacing a rotten companionway step
James Wood gets to grips with epoxy when repairing a rotten step support on Maximus's companionway
Teak alternatives: How to make your decks look as good as the real thing
However, according to a recent report by the Environment Investigation Agency, there are grave questions over the sustainability and sourcing…
How to build a boat: Essential guide to building your first kit boat
You don’t have to be a boatbuilder to learn how to build a boat, argue Roger Nadin and Polly Robinson.…
While replacing the interior joinery, it’s worth thinking about how to reinvigorate the cabin and cockpit sole.
Of course, there’s nothing wrong with using a faced plywood subsole, but there might be an opportunity here to add a much harder and better-wearing cabin sole that is more appropriate for the rigours of life at sea.
Soles are often thinly veneered and satin vanished, which never seem to last past the first week of the season.
A more solid solution is beaded-edged Douglas fir or larch, which can look wonderful down below.
They can also be laid over a subfloor in your desired thickness and if you need it watertight, the beaded edge can be swapped for a caulked edge.
Allowing this to grey and develop a more natural look will not only reduce your maintenance but give you a harder-wearing, practical finish.
If you do end up dropping a bottle of red wine all can be fixed with some sandpaper and the process of time.
Best wood for masts
There is a section of the vessel often overlooked. We winterise our engines, boat covers go on and the cushions come ashore , then we think about our mast; ashore in the shed or utilised as a ridge pole, then stuck in the mast step or tabernacle for the rest of the season.
Owners of aluminium mast can fear not, but for anyone sporting a shiny wooden one it’s hardly unsurprising we often find some softer spots around the ends.
There is a lot to be said for the proper coating of spars but what do you do if your gaff, boom, or bowsprit is beyond repair?
Mostly our spars are made from softwood; on very unusual occasions, you might find a hardwood bumkin or bowsprit , but these are unusual.
When selecting timber for spars, the durability and structural integrity of the wood must be considered, but the most important factor is movement.
Wooden masts are generally made from softwoods, like larch, Douglas fir or sitka spruce. Credit Graham Snook/YM
Main masts, bowsprits and bumkins tend to require less twist and flex than gaffs , booms or the extremely endangered wooden spinnaker poles.
While I have seen smaller dinghies sporting oak, iroko and even ash for these spars, they’re not recommended unless you have a particular vessel requirement.
Larch is often used in larger working craft for these spars and if constructing a solid spar, this might actually turn out to be a good choice for a new home-crafted main mast.
As the availability of sitka spruce has dwindled and is now only available through very specialist suppliers such as Robbins Timber or Stones Boatyard, a discerning mast builder should look at Douglas fir, which gives movement, structural integrity and durability.
This solid wood is excellent for glued construction and is also easy to work with – important if this is your first foray into wooden mast building.
There is some lovely slow-grown, tight-grained timber on the market currently and it can be sourced in the UK.
Boat wood for strong steering
Fortunately or not, many boat owners will only have to varnish and care for their wooden tiller.
Again, there are plenty of options, but it is worth thinking about what you require – durability, integrity and movement – and also think about the aesthetics.
Iroko and oak are strong and durable and can stand the weather uncoated, whereas Douglas fir or mahogany tillers will need coating.
Ash is the preferred choice for a tiller – like on this Hallberg-Rassy 29 – as it’s strong and not too heavy
Unless you manage to find a grown shape in oak, all of the above will require laminating so the tiller doesn’t have lots of short grain which results in a weak construction.
Traditionally, tillers were always made of ash; this is a wonderful timber that is very strong but not too heavy, ideal for balancing transom-hung rudders .
However, ash is not readily available.
Whatever wood you use to build your tiller, it is a good idea to make a spare to store down below in case of an emergency.
Build solid
Timber selection isn’t just important for repairs and replacement, it also has huge implications for the construction of new wooden vessels.
As traditionally used timbers, such as grown oak and elm, have all but disappeared from the market, many traditional boatbuilders are now having to think far outside the box.
Centrelines were traditionally built in oak, but now iroko, opepe and even purple heart are all being used in its place.
These woods have proven longevity, having been used during the early restorations of classic boats which are still sailing regularly today.
For sawn and steamed timbers, oak is still the most popular.
Some builders are using the laminate construction of iroko or mahogany for building larger craft, but this tends to be for ring frame constructions and combines the deck beam into this process.
Carbon compatible
Companies such as Spirit Yachts have really pushed this a step further by combining carbon fibre alongside this timber construction; a great way to add strength to a boat.
Transoms, coamings and other brightwork still, for the time being, carry the trends seen over the centuries, with mahogany or teak being favoured, but this could change as the availability of timber changes.
Possibly, we will see more of a workboat look coming in, with these surfaces becoming painted and less exotic, but still durable.
The biggest challenge facing the modern boatbuilder is sourcing good quality timber for hull planking.
The centreline of the Spirit 111 was made using Douglas fir; a stainless steel space frame on the middle ring frames adds stiffness. Credit: Mike Bowden/Spirit Yachts
The wood needs to provide the length needed, without forcing lots of unnecessary scarfing planks and has to allow steaming and the twist of tricky underwater profiles.
The traditional boat scene soldiers on with oak and larch in this regard, and the vessels built at Working Sail in Cornwall show what can be achieved.
Other builders are using alternatives though.
The Falmouth Pilot Cutter, Pellew , built by Working Sail, has oak frames and planking. Credit: James Stewart
Dan and Barry Tester rebuilt smack hulls from iroko, while Gerard Swift used Khaya mahogany to plank his skiff Mersea Native in 2000, which is still sailing today. If you can source larch, it’s a good middle ground between all of these options.
The reality of timber availability will soon catch up with us all, eventually limiting the options for amateurs and professionals alike.
In the meantime, however, if you remember the three golden rules and select a timber suited to your needs and requirements, you shouldn’t go too far wrong.
The best boat wood for the job
Centreline timbers.
Purpleheart is durable, water-resistant and reacts well with changes in humidity, making it ideal for use in the centreline of a boat. Credit: Getty
The centreline of a vessel requires a timber that’s strong, durable and long lasting.
- Pros: strong traditional choice, often allowing the option of grown pieces with stem construction.
- Cons: lengths of long, clear timber are hard to find. Green timber is prone to movement as it seasons. Expensive.
- Pros: stable timber available in long lengths, often able to provide wide boards which is important when looking at constructing hogs. Represents relative value for money. Works well for lamination when creating curved stems or stern posts.
- Cons: often hit and miss in terms of quality.
- Pros: stable timber available in long lengths. Reasonably priced, heavy timber.
- Cons: can check heavily in sunshine; if working outside keep it covered or apply a priming coat. Can occasionally reject coatings and sealants, so it is worth researching which coatings are successful.
Purpleheart
- Pros: durable, insect and water-resistant. Purpleheart also reacts well to constant temperature and humidity changes.
- Cons: harder timber can be unkind to tools and tricky to work with.
Douglas fir
- Pros: long lengths of large, clear timber available, can provide great options when looking for sustainable-sourced timber. Much kinder on tools.
- Cons: not as durable as hardwood for a keel but not a bad choice for internal keelsons and deadwoods.
Most woods used for transoms – such as surian on this Balmain Bug, will need plenty of coats of varnish. Credit: Crosbie Lorimer
For those of us sporting neat canoe sterns or long sweeping counters, this isn’t much of a concern, but for others, transom timber choice is vital.
It’s also often required to take a coat or nine of varnish.
- Pros: beautiful varnished finish. Responds well to steaming and lamination. Long lasting and rot resistant.
- Cons: expensive and scarce.
- Pros: nice varnished finish. Responds well to steaming and lamination. Long lasting, wide-boards available.
- Cons: hit and miss in terms of quality. Often hard to purchase large quantities of colour matched boards.
- Pros: beautiful varnished finish. Responds well to steaming and lamination. Colour matched boards available.
- Cons: needs to be well cared for to ensure longevity.
Hardwood veneers
- Pros: various options for varnished finishes. Wide. Used with glues and hidden fastenings, it can provide stunning results.
- Cons: can be tricky to work with as easily damaged and requires thoughtful preparation before and during coatings. Needs to be placed on strong foundations.
Floors and frames
Iroko is ideal for lamination. Credit: Getty
An important structural element of any vessel, while many modern alternatives of carbon and laminate exist, the more traditional choices are limited.
It’s important to think about short grain when looking for curved pieces.
- Pros: the only single piece timber if you require any shape. Strong and reliable.
- Cons: expensive. Grown pieces are becoming harder to find.
- Pros: strong, good for lamination and steams well.
- Cons: grain short for curves.
Oak bends and steams well, making it ideal for planking, although it is expensive to buy. Credit: Ilkka Ranta/Alamy Stock Photo
Choosing a suitable planking material is as important as it helps to determine the overall weight and strength of the vessel.
Consider what you want the planks to do: Are there tight curves? Lots of wear? Or is it all about grams of weight and dry sailing?
- Pros: a traditionalist’s choice when paired with oak. Available in long lengths. Strong and long lasting. Steams and bends well.
- Cons: wider boards becoming trickier to find. Beware of knots and sap and imitation pines.
- Pros: fantastic strong choice. Can be vanished as a topside finish. Steams and bends well. Wider boards available. Thicker boards can be cut to provide split planks and colour match for a varnished finish.
- Cons: prone to cracking or splitting when fitting or fixing. Check for rot and sap when purchasing wider boards.
- Pros: wonderful strong timber. Durable and rot resistant.
- Cons : limited on width of boards. Doesn’t bend or steam particularly easily, but can be done. Prone to checking and cracking under UV, even through coatings.
- Pros: strong and hard wearing. Steams well.
- Cons: can suffer becoming wet and dry, so needs one constant state – better being used below the water line. Hard to find outside of reclaimed stock.
- Pros: strong timber. Bends and steams well.
- Cons: can react to fastenings, and suffer UV damage.
- Pros: lightweight and easy to work with.
- Cons: lightweight timber, expensive and doesn’t last as long as other choices of timber.
- Pros: bends and steams well, making it perfect for awkward shapes.
- Cons: expensive. Difficult to source wide and long boards. Prefers to be in a constant state of temperature and humidity, so it is better used below the waterline.
- Pros: varnishes well for topside finish. Bends and stems well. Doesn’t react with fastenings.
- Cons: doesn’t always have the longevity of other timber. Doesn’t stand up well to freshwater damage.
Boatbuilders, like Spirit Yachts, are now using Douglas fir for decking. Credit: Jessie Rogers
When choosing wood for decking, think not only about strength and waterproofing, but the overall looks and aesthetics it’ll bring.
- Pros: wonderful traditional choice that both weathers well and lasts. Works well over a subdeck. Solid planks.
- Cons: don’t over-scrub and wash with a brush. Expensive and harder to find.
- Pros: great alternative to teak. Works well over a subdeck. Solid planks. Wide boards are available.
- Cons: doesn’t last as long as teak. Not as soft under barefoot. When machining large amounts and creating dust, it is highly toxic.
- Pros: cheaper alternative to hardwood. Weathers to a beautiful silver. Lays well over a subfloor and solid planks.
- Cons: soft and can be easily damaged.
Rubbing strakes and toe rails
Hardwood, like teak, is best for toe rails. Credit: Mike Taylor
This is a high impact area, rarely varnished and undercoated. If you can, look for a hardwood option here.
- Pros: hard wearing and weathers well. Rot resistant.
- Cons: expensive, hard to find.
- Pros: great alternative to teak. Wide boards available which is handy for tall toe rails.
- Cons: can be tricky to steam small section round bends. Highly toxic.
- Pros: varnishes well for topside finish. Bends and stems well. Doesn’t react with fastenings. Ages wonderfully under varnish layers.
- Cons: doesn’t stand up well to freshwater damage.
- Pros: strong timber. Bends and steams well. Looks better when scaled up in large sizes.
- Cons: can react to fastenings, and can suffer UV damage. Expensive choice. Can reject vanishes and expoxies.
- Pros: cheaper alternative to hardwood. Weathers to a beautiful silver colour.
- Cons: soft and easily damaged. Can soak up the varnish coats.
Cockpit gratings
Teak is highly rot resistant, making it ideal for a cockpit grate . Credit: Katy Stickland
- Pros: hard wearing, and weathers well. Highly rot resistant.
- Pros: great alternative to teak.
- Cons: doesn’t last as long as teak. Not as soft under barefoot. Toxic when machining large amounts.
Douglas fir is lightweight. Here, it has been mixed with utile on the tiller of this BayRaider Expedition to give it added strength and to accommodate the curve over the head of the outboard engine. Credit: David Harding
- Pros: strong, curved pieces available to avoid short grain.
- Cons: goes black when uncoated. Not very rot resistant. Reacts to fastenings.
- Pros: strong timber. Laminates and steams well.
- Cons: short grain for curved areas
- Pros: strong. Grown pieces so good for curves.
- Cons: costly. Avoid green wood.
- Pros: lightweight timber. Laminates and steams well.
- Cons: Goes black when uncoated. Not very rot resistant.
Enjoyed reading Boat wood: a complete guide for yacht owners?
A subscription to Practical Boat Owner magazine costs around 40% less than the cover price .
Print and digital editions are available through Magazines Direct – where you can also find the latest deals .
PBO is packed with information to help you get the most from boat ownership – whether sail or power.
- Take your DIY skills to the next level with trusted advice on boat maintenance and repairs
- Impartial in-depth gear reviews
- Practical cruising tips for making the most of your time afloat
Follow us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter
The global authority in superyachting
- NEWSLETTERS
- Yachts Home
- The Superyacht Directory
- Yacht Reports
- Brokerage News
- The largest yachts in the world
- The Register
- Yacht Advice
- Yacht Design
- 12m to 24m yachts
- Monaco Yacht Show
- Builder Directory
- Designer Directory
- Interior Design Directory
- Naval Architect Directory
- Yachts for sale home
- Motor yachts
- Sailing yachts
- Explorer yachts
- Classic yachts
- Sale Broker Directory
- Charter Home
- Yachts for Charter
- Charter Destinations
- Charter Broker Directory
- Destinations Home
- Mediterranean
- South Pacific
- Rest of the World
- Boat Life Home
- Owners' Experiences
- Conservation and Philanthropy
- Interiors Suppliers
- Owners' Club
- Captains' Club
- BOAT Showcase
- Boat Presents
- Events Home
- World Superyacht Awards
- Superyacht Design Festival
- Design and Innovation Awards
- Young Designer of the Year Award
- Artistry and Craft Awards
- Explorer Yachts Summit
- Ocean Talks
- The Ocean Awards
- BOAT Connect
- Between the bays
- Golf Invitational
- BOATPro Home
- Superyacht Insight
- Global Order Book
- Premium Content
- Product Features
- Testimonials
- Pricing Plan
- Tenders & Equipment
Have we reached peak teak?
Teak decking has long been regarded a superyacht’s crowning glory, but the controversy around “conflict wood” from Myanmar forced the industry to come up with ethical and sustainable alternatives. Marilyn Mower speaks to the pioneers leading a new wave of deck innovation.
We’ve known for decades that teak decking, the golden crown of a fine private yacht, has become problematic. Particularly contentious is old-growth Myanmar (Burmese) teak, or Tectona Grandis . It may be the highest-quality, most durable teak in the world, known for its warm colour and superior water resistance, but it is also clouded in environmental and humanitarian controversy.
Rumours of mass destruction of forests and exploitation of the Burmese people began filtering west in the 1960s, about the time the country dissolved into a military dictatorship. Tumultuous years followed, then, in 2021, after a brief period of stability, things took a turn for the worse when a regime with a brutal ethnic-cleansing programme took control (it still holds a grip over the country today). Bent on financing itself, it instilled a state-controlled timber monopoly, allowing traders to indiscriminately log as long as the government got a share of the profit. At the current rate of logging, the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA) warns that the country will lose its forests by 2035.
Over the years the US and EU have implemented various bans and regulations to prevent illegally harvested Myanmar teak from entering their markets. In June this year, the EU Timber Regulation, which sought to curb imports based on a somewhat voluntary due diligence, was replaced by a new broader and stricter methodology. Now any operator or trader who places these commodities on the EU market, or who exports from it, must prove that the products do not originate from recently deforested land or have contributed to forest degradation.
All these interruptions in sales of Burmese teak led to scarcity and rarity, resulting in a hike in prices, which simply heightened the demand for it. It also created an explosion of new teak plantations in other countries where it has always grown naturally but in smaller quantities.
Plantation teak has been touted as a solution, but it’s not quick-growing. Plant a teak tree today and it will be 30 to 50 years until it can be harvested. Even then, compared to the lumber from an 80- or 100-year-old forest tree, there are differences. While hardly noticeable in furniture, when it comes to decks, boards milled from young trees are shorter and narrower and the grain is not as tightly packed. The other issue is that the expansion of teak plantations – when not responsibly managed – can contribute to deforestation as well as the elimination of naturally biodiverse rainforest habitat and the people and animals that depend on it.
While the superyacht industry is a bit player in the global teak market, it is a high-visibility target for those who could criticise its environmental footprint. One company making a stance is UK design firm Harrison Eidsgaard , which says that teak as a deck material makes them “uncomfortable”. “While durability is paramount for all the obvious reasons, we feel owners should be involved in the thought process and discussion [of] alternatives,” says co-founder Ewa Eidsgaard.
Alternatives include ethically sourced teak, exotic woods, farmed hardwoods chemically treated to stop rot and imitation teak (man-made “composite” wood, often made up of wood fibres blended with plastic or glue) but, Eidsgaard points out, each of them has an environmental impact.
“Ethically sourced teak is scarce,” she says. The problem is that there are not enough officially audited forests to supply all the teak needed to meet demand. As Eidsgaard says, “The next batch of lots of teak trees is not going to come up any time soon.” Exotic woods or chemically treated hardwoods also trigger questions about future recycling and imitation teak is PVC based, “and that opens a different can of worms”.
Marnix Hoekstra, co-creative director of Vripack , notes that he’s surprised how “addicted” people – including himself – are to the look of teak decks on a yacht and how difficult it is proving to step away from them. “I think [decks are] one of the largest surfaces on a yacht and are very undeveloped from a design perspective. At the same time, we do have to acknowledge that it is a working surface for the crew, so it is not only aesthetics, but durability and non-skid qualities are very important,” he says. “Alternatives with those qualities are scarce. At the same time, it’s up to us as designers to make the world see how it could be different.” Farmed hardwood, for example, is perfectly usable from a technical perspective, but “global demand is so high that it is impossible for the foreseeable years that we will have enough forests to meet demand”.
For Vripack, it isn’t sufficient to just use less teak in a design proposal. Instead, they suggest a different solution. “From day one, I am not forcing the client to make a choice; I am giving them something which is greater than the original,” says Hoekstra. As an example, he cited a 60-metre Vripack explorer currently in construction where they consciously chose a synthetic decking material called Esthec. “We use it in a very innovative way. It absolutely resembles the finish you are used to, but [with the patterns we have made] it is not a copy of a teak deck.”
Esthec is a patented thermoset (heat-hardened) material that, unlike many composites, uses biomaterials and doesn’t contain PVC or wood. Marcel van der Spek co-founded Esthec in 2007. “Despite the fact that sustainability has been part of the conversation for five years, builders are finally asking about synthetics because teak isn’t available, and the ones who stockpiled teak three years ago are realising that won’t last,” he says. Esthec’s recipe is continually being refined, he says. “Our goal is to be completely bio-based by the end of 2024. We don’t import anything from India or China and our factory is not more than 350 kilometres away from where we obtain our raw materials, so that [reduces] our CO2 footprint.”
On Project Zero , currently under construction at Vitters , Vripack appeased the owner’s desire for wood differently. Following considerable research they selected Tesumo, an engineered product made from a fast-growing African tree that matures in 50 years or roughly one-third the time of premium teak. “I think we will be using it on all projects that require wood decks,” Hoekstra says. “Every board comes with a QR code on the back of it and every tree can be traced back to the source and the person who cut it. We have had it thoroughly tested in the Netherlands. It is the future of decking.”
Tesumo was developed from a research project conducted by Lürssen shipyard, German superyacht decking company Wolz Nautic and the German University of Göttingen. The wood, which comes from managed forests with Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or Origine et Légalité des Bois (OLB) certificates, is modified with a patented process using heat, resin infusion and drying. The result has the same appearance, dimensional stability, elasticity and rot resistance as teak. “The use of easily available wood reduces the ecological risks that go along with logging a rare raw material,” says Philipp Warnecke, Tesumo’s managing director.
Another new alternative is the Dutch product Accoya, which, like Tesumo, uses an easily available certified sustainable softwood as its base material. Instead of being injected with resin, the wood is “catalysed” – a strong type of vinegar called acetic anhydride is forced into the raw timber under temperature and pressure, which changes the wood on a molecular level. It makes the wood virtually unable to absorb water, expand and rot. Accoya has a life expectancy of 25 to 50 years and can be reused, recycled or burned as biomass (fuel).
Richard Strauss, CEO of Teakdecking Systems, has been negotiating the hot potato that is Myanmar teak for seven years, with the exception of periods where the US and EU could not legally obtain it. “Teak is a bit taboo,” he admits. But, he says, what the world forgets is that ethical teak is also grown responsibly all over southeast Asia, India, Panama, Costa Rica, Brazil and central Africa, in natural forests as well as plantations. “We have four people who source wood. They go to the forests and to the sawmills to check on compliance. The FSC really has its finger on where teak is grown, and they make sure it is logged properly and the paperwork is in order.”
Most lumber importers rely on companies like DoubleHelix to oversee certifying sustainability compliance for wood stocks. “They are like the blockchain for wood,” says Strauss. “But we are taking it further; we subject our lumber stocks to a DNA test to make sure it is 100 per cent clean. In the future, all yacht builders will want this.”
Strauss says that in the past, superyacht-quality teak decking came from trees 80 years old or more. “In this reality, superyacht-quality teak is 30 to 35 years old. The standard for deck exports used to be inch-thick boards four inches wide and 12ft long.” Now he says the standard deck board is thinner: “Just one by three inches and the boards are just eight or nine feet long,” he notes. “The teak available now requires a re-education process and new designs and decorative patterns to make efficient use of shorter boards.”
So with restrictions in place now, is the price of teak stabilising? Strauss gives a resounding “no”. The price in Europe for old growth teak is around €30,000 (£26,000) per cubic metre. Plantation teak is not far behind, “about what we paid for Burmese teak four years ago.”
One of the latest adaptations is so-called “green teak”, which reduces waste by incorporating parts of a tree that would have been rejected for traditional deck boards because they had knots or imperfections. A sawmill slices the timber into thin veneers, stacks them and laminates them. The laminated veneers are then turned on their side and sliced into three-inch-wide boards. Strauss says the stacked veneers look almost exactly like the vertical grain of a teak board. “We have a 107-metre yacht under construction now in Northern Europe with all green teak decking. The response at METS last year was huge. We had three requests for proposals on superyachts over 100 metres that originally wanted Myanmar teak but have switched their request to other teaks. We see wealthy people asking questions now.”
Teakdecking is an employee-owned company that saw the writing on the wall for teak eight years ago and began a rigorous testing programme for Accoya, which Strauss notes is harder than teak and very stable. The company has been testing its longevity with caulk and adhesives and has panels that are now seven years old with no degrading. “The other thing we are trying to do is to get builders to use composites in wet areas such as working decks and tender garages,” he says. (Teakdecking uses Esthec and Herculan as its composite offerings.)
The search for decking alternatives has also led to cork, which the production boat market adopted as a non-skid deck material years ago because it is lightweight, requires little maintenance and the surface does not get hot. Hinckley Yachts and several catamaran builders offer it as an option.
Cork trees may live 200 years and their soft bark can be safely harvested every eight or nine years. For deck material, cork is ground into uniform pellets and mixed with a binder. Companies such as Marinedeck 2000, AquaCork and SeaCork all have proprietary mixtures and either compress the product into blocks to be cut into planks or extrude it into sheets that can be templated for installation in large sections.
SeaCork is made in France and sold in 100 countries. Randy Fraser in the UK office says that the most common applications have been for tenders and refits, usually to cover a leaking deck or applied over existing faux teak that gets too hot. “We find in general that people [think] the surface is going to be like the cork board they remember from school, which is the cheapest, least durable. It’s not even the same species of tree as the cork oaks used to make wine stoppers. It’s like comparing a Twinkie and a proper French baguette.” Fraser notes that cork graces the floors of many high-traffic institutions like Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater, the Library of Congress, National Archives and the Los Angeles Public Library.
Chris Groves, managing director of Eco Marine Deck UK, is an advocate of Marinedeck 2000, which uses Portuguese cork and holds full FSC accreditation. Groves says it’s easily repaired, easier to work with than wood and more stable. “It doesn’t get hot or cold, it’s not expanding and contracting, so it has better adhesion and is less likely to lose its bond to the deck.”
Other substitutes include the very dense hardwood species iroko and greenheart, which have natural resistance to rot and termites. The trees grow to a very large size and yield wide, long boards. In truth, iroko is difficult to work, splinters and easily blunts tools, as does greenheart. Greenheart is often used in Caribbean construction because it stands up to a wet climate and is resistant to carpenter ants. It is a great choice for docks and ship hulls – Ernest Shackleton’s ship Endurance was clad in greenheart – but not so great for yacht decks. Some existing tall ships have decks made of iroko.
Esthec’s van der Spek says the next leaps must come from designers in terms of how they use the material. He points to how Mercedes-Benz Style used the material aboard the Arrow460 in ways that looked nothing like teak boards. “The material begins as a liquid so we can pour it on anything with an aluminium substrate in practically any pattern. We can make it on ceilings and walls and curved surfaces.”
Van der Spek sees a lot of shipyards doing studies of alternative materials,“but most of them are comparing Burmese teak to other teak materials. The next step should be innovation with other materials. It’s time to move on.”
Teak alternatives
ESTHEC The patented thermoset (hardened by heat) material uses biomaterials and does not contain PVC or wood. Now in its third generation, the 8mm- thick material does not absorb water and is resistant to most oils and grease. Compared to teak, it weighs less than teak and remains about 8°C cooler. At the end of its life, Esthec can be recycled or reworked locally with a new top layer for a second life cycle.
TESUMO Developed by Lürssen, Wolz Nautic and the University of Göttingen, this engineered product is made from a fast-growing African tree. The wood from managed forests is modified with a patented process using heat, resin infusion and drying. It has the same appearance, dimensional stability, elasticity and rot resistance as teak. Dr Georg Behr, Tesumo’s head of research and development, says it can be “thermically utilised” (disposed of by burning).
ACCOYA This modified wood uses a sustainable softwood as its base material that is “catalysed” when a strong type of vinegar called acetic anhydride is forced into the raw timber under temperature and pressure, which changes the wood on a molecular level. This makes the wood virtually unable to absorb water, expand and rot. Accoya has a life expectancy of up to 50 years and can be reused, recycled or burned as biomass (fuel).
GREEN TEAK This type of teak uses the parts of a tree that normally would have been rejected for traditional deck boards because they had knots or imperfections. A sawmill slices the timber into thin veneers, stacks them up and laminates them with a polyurethane glue. The laminated veneers are then turned on their side and sliced into three-inch-wide boards. These stacked veneers are nearly indistinguishable from the vertical grain of a teak deck board.
MARINEDECK 2000, AQUACORK, SEACORK Cork is naturally waterproof and can be harvested every eight years. Marinedeck 2000, AquaCork and SeaCork all have proprietary mixtures and either compress the product into blocks to be cut into planks or extrude it into sheets that can be templated for installation in large sections. Easily repaired if damaged, cork is easy to work with, doesn’t get hot and is more stable. Marinedeck 2000 has been installed on a Feadship.
IROKO AND GREENHEART These dense hardwoods from Africa and South America, respectively, have natural resistance to rot and termites. Iroko is sometimes called African teak, although the species are not related. Iroko lumber starts out yellow but ages to a darker copper colour, while greenheart is highly variable. Greenheart is a great choice for docks and ship hulls but not so great for yacht decks as it is difficult to work with. Iroko makes up the decks of some existing tall ships.
Sign up to BOAT Briefing email
Latest news, brokerage headlines and yacht exclusives, every weekday
By signing up for BOAT newsletters, you agree to our Terms of Use and our Privacy Policy .
More stories
Most popular, from our partners, sponsored listings.
Your Guide to Iroko: Colour, Uses, Properties, Sustainability, Treatment & Costs
Published on 01 July 2022
Often dubbed ‘African teak’ and even a timber ‘Rolls Royce’, Iroko is a truly special species, suitable for almost any project.
With phenomenal natural outdoor resistance, gorgeous exotic golden brown hues and rock-hard density, Iroko is a firm favourite for home improvers, commercial specifiers — and even boatbuilders!
Let’s explore more about this popular species and why it’s such a go-to wood for decking , fencing , cladding , furniture making and much more.
Iroko: a quick guide
With the scientific name Milicia excelsa , Iroko is a hardwood tree native to the west coast of tropical Africa. Also known as ìrókò , logo , loko (or even uloho or odum in some native languages), these large trees typically grow between 30–40m and can live for up to 500 years.
Iroko: colour, appearance and texture
When first machined, iroko has a golden-yellow colour. But, like any good wine, it gets even better with age. Iroko’s heartwood’s hues will slowly deepen to a medium golden brown and eventually a rich, luxurious copper brown. Variance in colour is to be expected between different boards, as are dark streaked markings.
Although iroko has phenomenal outdoor durability — as we’ll discuss — if left exposed to the elements, moisture and the sun’s UV will cause it to very slowly lose this colour and weather to a distinguished silvery-grey. Not an altogether bad thing, depending on your architectural preferences! This greying process can be effectively halted with the use of a quality preservative .
Iroko timber has a medium-to-coarse but even texture. Like many tropical hardwoods, iroko has large, open pores that contribute to an interesting, characterful grain pattern.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Matthew Airey (@mja.joinery)
What is iroko wood used for?
From decking to fencing , cladding , furniture and flooring, iroko’s superb density, durability and stability lend it to an incredibly wide range of applications and uses. With its luxurious golden brown-copper hues, it’s popular for smaller specialty items, woodturning , veneers and other items. Naturally oily and moisture resistant, iroko is even popular for boatbuilding.
Iroko can be used for larger projects but also smaller, speciality projects and pieces — such as this Land Rover Defender cubby box, made using our stocks!
Iroko: durability and stability
Due to its ‘upbringing’ surrounded by the intense, dry heat, wind and rain of tropical Africa, iroko is a highly seasoned wood. An oily hardwood, it has very high natural resistance to insects, pests and decay — a go-to outdoor timber for use in exposed areas.
Iroko is an oily, waxy wood that’s resistant to large changes in its moisture content, meaning it has low levels of movement, shrinking and warping. This makes it a dimensionally stable wood, even popular for marine use.
As mentioned, preservative treatment is not usually required before iroko is used outdoors, although it may be preferred in order to retain the original copper shades of colour.
Although we only speak of its durability and stability, the Yoruba people (a West African ethnic group) believe the tree to even have healing properties!
Iroko: strength and hardness
Iroko is dense and abrasion resistant, with a dry weight of 660kg/m³. On the Janka scale — a measure of the relative hardness of different wood species — iroko clocks in at a very respectable 1,260 lbf (pound force). The test measures the amount of force required to embed a steel ball into the wood.
For comparison, a classically scratch and impact-resistant timber like teak has 1,155 lbf, with species of oak ranging from 1,120–1,360 lbf — which means iroko is in esteemed company.
Iroko: workability
Iroko is a fairly workable wood, producing good results with hand tools and when being planed, turned and moulded. The wood takes well to glueing, nailing, finishing and varnishing, with a tolerable steam bending ratio.
However, iroko does have a tendency to blunt tools because of the presence of hard calcium carbonate. In areas where iroko’s characteristic interlocking grain occurs, tearout can also be an issue.
Iroko: sustainability
According to the IUCN Red List — a leading database of the conservation status of the world’s biodiversity — Iroko is classified as ‘ Lower Risk ’, a classification below Vulnerable. So, when buying your iroko, be sure that it’s sourced from sustainably-managed forests.
Some types of African hardwood — such as teak — are sadly harvested unsustainably and often illegally. This leads to dwindling populations and a threat to species’ long-term survival (not to mention higher prices).
One way to ensure you’re buying sustainably is to partner with merchants who have a clear, unequivocal environmental and social commitment — like us.
Iroko: cost and availability
Iroko is imported from west Africa and commercially available at a moderate cost; it’s typically slightly pricier than popular woods like Siberian Larch and Alaskan Yellow Cedar, whilst usually similar in cost to European Oak, Balau and Western Red Cedar.
What many people value, however, is that iroko is a far more affordable (and sustainable) alternative to genuine teak, with which it shares many similarities in terms of appearance, durability and stability.
Iroko: treatment
As mentioned, because of its excellent natural durability, iroko does not need any treatment before being used outdoors. But to maximise its longevity and preserve its natural colour — after around 12 months, it will start to turn a silvery-grey — you can apply a quality preservative.
Because of its natural oiliness, iroko should be first wiped down with methylated spirits to remove any substances that may lead to coating or adhesion failure before the finish is applied. There are many different types of treatment on the market, and our team would be delighted to advise — but you usually can’t go wrong with a clear oil finish .
Iroko vs. teak — how do they compare?
Both of these African hardwoods have a beautiful medium-dark golden brown colour after ageing, interesting grain pattern, superb outdoor durability and exceptional physical density. So, it shouldn’t come as a surprise to learn that Iroko proudly holds the nickname ‘African teak’ — and, not so proudly, ‘poor man’s teak’!
As a result, you’ll find that timber from iroko and teak trees share many of the same uses: for furniture, outdoor use and even boatbuilding. Both contain certain oils and natural compounds that make the heartwood extremely decay resistant, requiring almost no treatment to be left outside.
The biggest discernible difference between iroko and genuine teak is undoubtedly the cost; iroko is a far more abundant and commercially available timber. As a result, it comes in at a lower price point and makes for a fantastic teak substitute.
After some sustainably-sourced iroko for your next project?
At Duffield Timber, we’re proud to offer a range of beautiful, durable and sustainable quality sawn timber — including iroko — for almost any project, delivered speedily and securely across the UK.
Whether you’re doing a bit of woodworking, furniture making, decking, fencing or cladding, our team of timber experts would be delighted to help with your next project.
Click the ‘get in touch’ button below, email [email protected] or phone 01765 640 564 to get started!
Related Articles
- Tropical Timber Species Guide: Ipe
- Douglas Fir vs Siberian Larch Cladding: Which Is Best?
- Cedar or Larch Fencing? Plus Design Ideas & Inspiration!
- Garden Fence Height Rules & Regulations in the UK
- Tropical Timber Species Guide: Sapele
- A Guide To Exterior Treatments, Stains And Oils For Oak
- Cladding vs. Rendering: Differences, Design Ideas & Costs
Ready to start your project?
Enquire about your guide to iroko: colour, uses, properties, sustainability, treatment & costs.
EXCLUSIVE YACHT CARPENTRY
Select your language
- PERSPECTIVE
- OUR CUSTOMERS
- LETTERS of RECOMMENDATIONS
- SHIPBUILDING TIMBER
| Width Of area to be decked in meters | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Length Of area to be decked In meters | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Amount of decking required in square meters | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
COMMENTS
This boat is our first boat with Beneteau´s new Teak-substitute, the Iroko deck. And I was keen on checking how the serial production quality of this deck material looks and feels like. Iroko-deck: My first impression. I entered the yacht cutting through her plastic covering and crawled onto her wooden cockpit floor.
Iroko is the new Teak. March 10th, 2023. ·. ·. Interview. There is quite some stirrup in the boating industry since the embargo against the military dictatorship in Myanmar. Teak is off the market and the stocks are depleting rapidly. Teak price has already risen and also news from the first people prosecuted for dealing with the so-called ...
This is the main reason why it is often used for outdoor applications and is highly demanded for use in decking and construction of boats. Iroko wood comes from large deciduous hardwood trees, and the Iroko tree grows to an average of 130 feet (50 meters). It is also known as African Teak and is native to tropical regions of Africa.
Iroko stands up well to the marine environment. Had a solid iroko worktop fitted in our kitchen and used an offcut as a mounting pad for our windlass and now 5 years on it looks as good as new. Nb, always wear a mask when machining/sanding it as the dust is extremely irritant and can even be dangerous if you get sensitised.
Re: Iroko on deck. Boats that are imported here from Europe usually have teak decks that are 1/4" (mm0 or less in thickness. In my experience this is to thin. Normal wooden deck maintenence is sanding. All wooden decks absorb dirt and the soft grain weathers away and you sand them to clean and level them.
Iroko can, however, provide you with a teak-style of deck that should give a hardly noticeable match to existing teak. It can be left to weather or be oiled and varnished with stunning results. If you're replacing a large area, or laying all new decking , I'd recommend taking some inspiration from the working boat scene.
Iroko is sometimes called African teak, although the species are not related. Iroko lumber starts out yellow but ages to a darker copper colour, while greenheart is highly variable. Greenheart is a great choice for docks and ship hulls but not so great for yacht decks as it is difficult to work with.
For example, in a smooth profile, Iroko decking comes in at £8.95 + VAT per linear metre. This compares to £6.95 + VAT for the equivalent decking profile in Siberian Larch, and £5.25 + VAT for a popular modified timber decking species like ThermoWood. Another popular exotic species, Balau, comes in at the £7.75 + VAT price point.
Iroko: durability and stability. Due to its 'upbringing' surrounded by the intense, dry heat, wind and rain of tropical Africa, iroko is a highly seasoned wood. An oily hardwood, it has very high natural resistance to insects, pests and decay — a go-to outdoor timber for use in exposed areas. Iroko is an oily, waxy wood that's resistant ...
Originally from Nigeria, African IROKO is a wood widely used in shipbuilding. It has a warm, golden color and it responds well when processed by hand tools and machines. In addition, when the proper undercoats are used, it also provides an excellent finish and is, therefore, an ideal choice for yacht exteriors (planking, deck, keel, sternpost etc.).
My all teak planked Cheoy Lee built boat has an iroko keel and other backbone parts, with ipol frames. Iroko is in the same class as teak as far as rot resistance and so on. Many similar characteristics. ... I've never tried it on a boat as a teak decking substitute, so ACB may be right about it micro-checking & trapping dirt - I just haven't ...
The reason they gave me is that, otherwise, it tends to break within its fibers. That's why it shouldn't be used in decks, according to them: Iroko cut in long, narrow pieces could break in a matter of few seasons. No direct experience though - my deck is teak, luckily ! 2 Nov 2002. #4.
Iroko wood, also known as African Teak due to its similar color and properties. Iroko lumber is a great species for exteriors and interiors. Skip to primary navigation; ... making it a great species for exterior and even marine applications. Iroko is used primarily for exterior project like decking and cladding. Its Teak like color makes is an ...
Back in 1989 I laid an entire deck (on top of plywood)in Iroko on a 27ft gaffer I was restoring. The wood remained untreated and took on a beautiful silver-gray colour. ... The boat is still in commission. I found Iroko reaonably easy to cut and plane, but the dust is an irritant so you need a mask, as with any other wood. Perhaps the problems ...
Frequently Asked Questions about West African Iroko Timber. What can iroko be used for? The Iroko hardwood is used for joinery exterior and interior, cladding, decking, boat building, piling, marine work, domestic flooring, furniture, cabinetwork and much more. The thicknesses for Iroko: 26mm, 32mm, 38mm, 51mm, 63mm, 76mm & 100mm.
Southgate Timber is providing high-quality Iroko hardwood decking in various sizes. Explore the best Iroko hardwood decking now. TEL : 01277 890 783; EMAIL : [email protected] Collections Monday to Friday 9:00 - 16:00; Search. exc VAT ...
At long last, Below Deck Sailing Yacht returns for its fifth season on October 7. Captain Glenn Shephard, chief stew Daisy Kelliher, and first mate Gary King are leading the Parsifal III into ...
Bravo fans have been waiting a very long time for news about Below Deck Sailing Yacht Season 5, and the network has finally delivered.. Not only did Bravo just drop a brand-new trailer for the fifth season of the hotly-anticipated reality TV show, the network also confirmed precisely when Below Deck Sailing Yacht will return.. Until today, fans of Below Deck Sailing Yacht weren't quite sure ...
Below Deck Sailing Yacht Season 5 premieres on Monday, Oct. 7 at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Bravo. Episodes will be available to stream next day on Peacock. Until Season 5 premieres in October, catch up with ...
Your First Look at Below Deck Sailing Yacht Season 5. 1:00 . Preview. Chase Lemacks Says Goodbye to the Below Deck Sailing Yacht Crew. 1:36 . Preview.
The Below Deck universe is one of the popular franchises on Bravo. Fans have been clamoring for the trailer for Below Deck Sailing Yacht following the major breakdown of Daisy Kelliher and Gary King's short-lived romance last season. Now, it's finally here, and the trailer teases everything viewers want — drama, romance, and breaking the rules with the guests.
Below Deck Sailing Yacht is a spin-off of the Below Deck reality television series. Premiering on Bravo, the show follows the life of a Yacht crew as they attempt to navigate a busy Charter season in which many customers make use of a 177-foot sailing yacht. Over the first three seasons, the yacht has been to Greece, Croatia, and Spain.
Below Deck Sailing Yacht is coming back for season 5 after Gary King's sexual misconduct scandal. Bravo announced on Monday, September 16, that the next season reunites Captain Glenn Shephard ...
Your First Look at the Below Deck Sailing Yacht Season 4 Reunion. 1:13. Preview. There's Trouble in Paradise for the Throuple Onboard. 1:40. Preview. Daisy Kelliher Tells Gary King They Need to ...
Basically Iroko is considered "poor mans teak". It is similar colour, not so durable but still good and most importantly 60% of the price (typically). Main drawback is that it can be difficult to work because of interlocking grain and has a habit of twisting when cut into strips. Not stable enough for decking.
Flag of Yekaterinburg (Sverdlovsk oblast).svg. Size of this PNG preview of this SVG file: 800 × 533 pixels. Other resolutions: 320 × 213 pixels | 640 × 427 pixels | 1,024 × 683 pixels | 1,280 × 853 pixels | 2,560 × 1,707 pixels. Original file (SVG file, nominally 900 × 600 pixels, file size: 8 KB)
If it worked it would be done all the time. But iroko, unlike teak, develops a myriad tiny surface checks when left exposed and unpainted, so what you get is not a grey deck which goes brown when wet but a black deck which goes black when wet. Personally, I would cover a marine ply decl with glass cloth and epoxy, and have watertight, light ...
14. Visit the Old Water Tower. Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Dom kobb used under CC BY-SA 3.0. The old water tower is one of Yekaterinburg's oldest structures dating back to the 1800s and stands as a monument of industrial architecture. It is one of the city's endearing symbols.
Yekaterinburg is situated 1,036 miles (1,667 km) east of Moscow. Yekaterinburg, Russia. Near the village of Shartash, which was founded in 1672 by members of the Russian sect of Old Believers, an ironworks was established in 1721 and a fortress in 1722. In 1723 the new settlement was named Yekaterinburg in honor of Catherine I, the wife of ...
Your First Look at Below Deck Sailing Yacht Season 5. 1:00 . Preview. Chase Lemacks Says Goodbye to the Below Deck Sailing Yacht Crew. 1:36 . Preview.