Alternatives to Teak Battens

[Finallybuyingaboat]

I need to replace the toe rail and rub rail on my Shark. Well, at $5 a linear foot for teak battens, teak would end up costing me in the area of $700 after taxes, shipping, etc. Are there any other types of wood that can be used which are not as expensive or an endangered species? My GF is a tree hugger and does not like the idea of using an endangered species if there is an alternative.

[sander06]

I'm not sure what the connection is between battens and toe rails/ rub rails but there are a number of woods that are just as good as teak and are less expensive. Mahogany and oak come to mind just off the top of my head. You might want to check out ...

The Plastic Classic Forum :: Index

They seem to be always looking for low cost alternatives to just about everything concerning boat maintenance and repair.

Good luck. I can't bring myself to pay what they want for a piece of teak.

[cruisingdream]

Just for tree huggers

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[Quickstep192]

Just an opinion.........

If you want to put function over form, an aluminum or rubber rail with an insert will last a long time and the insert can be replaced if damaged. It will last a long time and no trees were directly killed to make it.

Here's an example: Flexible Rub Rail with Flexible Insert @ TacoMarine.com

If you want the look of wood, go with teak.

Maybe teak for the toe rail and aluminum for the rub rail?