Swim Ladder protection

[model14]

The swim ladder on my 1988 ThunderCraft restoration is teak (I think). I have attached a picture for your opinion. The boat will be in salt water most of the time and the swim ladder is continuously sprayed with water underway. What is the best protective coating I can use? I am thinking of just a varnish, and having to redo it every year or so. Do you agree?
Thanks,
Richard

 

[DeepBlue2010]

Re: Swim Ladder protection

One way to do it...

1) Clean with some oxalic acid
2) Sand smooth (220,320)
3) Apply multiple coats of Teak Oil.

You need to recoat frequently with this method.

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: Swim Ladder protection

A somewhat more longlasting method is to clean as suggested above then apply the Teak Oil. After drying for 48 hours apply 2 coats of thinned epoxy (20% Acetone with epoxy) and then 3-4 coats of Marine Varnish (needed for UV protection). You could even sprinkle a little sand on the last couple of coats to give a bit of texture to the treads for traction.

 

[model14]

Re: Swim Ladder protection

Is marine varnish UV protected, and regular varnish is not? Anything with "marine" on it is so darn expensive!

 

[Woodonglass]

Re: Swim Ladder protection

Yup Marine Varnish has a high degree of UV protection. You can just use the Teak Oil (it's kinda Pricey too) but as stated you will need to apply it on a regular basis especially in a Saltwater environment.

 

[model14]

Re: Swim Ladder protection

Thanks for the info.

 

[greenbush future]

Re: Swim Ladder protection

Are you in love with the wood platform? my guess is a synthetic material might be a better option so you don't have to maintain this wood to keep it looking nice. Some folks don't mind the maint. I would replace the wood and never look back.