On 22 Dec 2005 05:32:05 -0800, "Capt. Rob" wrote:

In some ways, these interiors
seem more traditional than do the "apple crate" all teak interiors that
bombarded us in the last decade. "


I find great humor in the ads that promote the use of wood species
other than teak as "better" or "upgrade" when in fact it is just a
cost cutting move and the use of an innappropriate material. Teak is
traditionally used because it will eventually get wet by leakage or
heavy weather sailing and it will stain as any wood will, however it
is easily recoverable. Other species, Cherry, Ash, Mahogony, etc.
are permanently stained or at least stained to a depth that makes them
recoverable by significant sanding rather than chemical cleaning and
brighteneing as can happen with teak. Other species will also swell,
warp and split from intermittant exposure to weather, teak will resist
these problem outcomes.

Teak is most costly. Teak is most appropriate. Use of all other,
cost cutting move.

Frank