Can I safely epoxy Teak on gelcoat?

Question

My boss is having me install a teak deck (16'x16' approx.) with west system epoxy and no fasteners.

I'm scratching the gelcoat with 24 grit paper and a b*****d file.

I thoroughly clean the Teak and gelcoat with acetone before installation, but I'm not confident in the process.

Is this a sound construction method?

He insists on using epoxy, and no fasteners, how can I make this install last?

I'm just talking about the adhesive, I'm not looking for a teak deck lecture. I built at least twenty Teak decks, but I've never done an install like this... I'm worried.

Answer 1

Rather than use epoxy have you given any thought to using an adhesive like Sika.There are a number of really great flexible adhesive products on the market now.I used Sika for teak decks on my yacht around six years ago and it is still working fine.You can caulk the gaps with the same product and then just give a light sand to finish...works a treat.