Wooden Decks on Ships in World War II: An Unusual Material Choice

Rare but Not Unseen: Wooden Decks in World War II

During World War II, wooden decks were an unusual but not unheard-of material choice for certain types of naval vessels. Most notably, British aircraft carriers were notable exceptions, primarily due to the demands of their operations. However, it is worth noting that US naval ships, including aircraft carriers, often used a combination of wooden and steel decks, particularly for their flight decks. This article will explore why wooden decks were used for certain ships during the war and the reasons behind their use.

History of Wooden Decks in Naval Warfare

Before diving into the specifics of World War II, it is important to understand the history of wooden decks in naval warfare. Wood was phased out for a majority of naval vessels in the late 19th century, primarily due to the advent of larger, more powerful vessels that required heavier steel decks. However, some navies continued to use wooden decks for certain vessels until the very end of the 19th century. For instance, the Spanish navy used wooden decks on ships during the Battle of Manila Bay in 1898, even as they were giving one of the most famous commands in naval history: “-ignore the torpedoes, full speed ahead!!”

Wooden Decks in US Naval Vessels

US naval vessels, including their aircraft carriers, utilized wooden decks for their flight decks. This decision was made for several practical reasons. First, steel decks can be extremely slippery when wet, making it difficult for sailors to maintain traction. In contrast, wooden decks provided better traction, which was especially important for operations on the flight deck. Additionally, if oil or lubricant were spilled on a steel deck, it could become dangerous to walk on, even when dry. Wooden decks could be easily replaced or repaired when worn out or damaged, making them highly practical for warships that saw a lot of action.

Another factor to consider is the climate control on US warships. Wooden decks, particularly those made of teak, were better at insulating the deck and helping to keep the ship warmer in winter and cooler in summer. The superior insulation properties of wooden decks also helped to reduce the energy required to maintain climatic conditions aboard the ship. Teak was chosen due to its resistance to water damage and its ability to insulate the deck effectively.

During World War II, US aircraft carriers often featured a combination of a steel hangar deck and a wooden flight deck. This design allowed for larger air wings to operate from the carriers. The first US aircraft carrier designed with an armored deck was the Midway class. While armored decks were more durable, the need for quick repairs meant that these repairs often required a well-equipped shipyard.

Conclusion: Wood vs. Metal for Naval Decks

Wooden decks were indeed used on ships during World War II, but the choice was not made lightly. The use of wooden decks on ships such as aircraft carriers and some US naval vessels offers several advantages. For instance, wooden decks were cheaper and lighter than armor, making them a cost-effective and practical choice, especially when armor was not strictly necessary. Additionally, wooden decks provided a less slippery surface, which was beneficial for movements and traction. Furthermore, wooden decks did not rust, as demonstrated by the preservation of the Forward deck of the Bismarck, which still had visible paint after 50 years. Finally, wooden decks made less noise when objects were dropped or dragged across them, which could be an essential factor in certain military scenarios.

In conclusion, while wooden decks were not the norm, they represented an innovative and practical solution for specific naval operations during World War II. Their use highlights the adaptability and ingenuity of naval engineers and the innovative spirit that characterized naval warfare during this period.