Why did battleships use teak decks During World War II ?

Many people puzzle that colossal naval war machines like battleships employed wooden decks. Not just battleships, most WWII-era and earlier vessels - including cruisers, aircraft carriers, and civilian ships - predominantly featured wooden decks. Even modern cruise ships and yachts continue using wooden decks to maintain "traditional aesthetics," though these are always installed over steel plates underneath.

Ship decks endure extreme conditions: prolonged sun exposure, seawater impact, salt corrosion, while simultaneously requiring slip resistance, deformation prevention, and thermal insulation. Before the advancement of chemical industries, wood - particularly premium teak - became the only viable material. Teak possesses unique insect-resistant and anti-corrosion properties. After being cut and installed, crews had to constantly maintain these decks using deck stones with water and quartz sand for polishing.

Despite meticulous maintenance, wooden decks inevitably decay under weathering. This necessitated periodic replacement of damaged sections. Nevertheless, the eco-friendliness and time-honored tradition ensure wooden decks' enduring popularity in yacht construction.