Storing Sails - GRAMPIAN 34 Owner's Manual

STORING SAILS FOR THE OFF-SEASON
Although sails today are made of synthetic fibres, you will get the best use of
your sails if you stor
c leaned and then stored.
Sail Inspection
Sails should be inspected closely for chafe. You may find only minor wear, two or
three stitches gone, but these should be attended to during the off-season.
These items will spread and can cause unnecessary loss of sailing time during
the next season. The areas to examine carefully are the following:
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The area of the main which rubs the upper shrouds and spreaders.
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The leech of the main for rubbing by the backstay and topping lift.
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Both the inner and outer ends of the batten pockets.
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All grommet holes should be checked for distortion.
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All main sail slides and piston hanks on the jib. The latter should be given
one small drop of oil once a year.
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The foot of the jib, especially where it comes in contact with rigging,
lifelines and other parts of the boat.
Sail Cleaning
Cleaning all of your sails at least once a year will keep up their appearance and
increase their effective life span. Small sails can be cleaned in a bathtub. Larger
sails can be cleaned on a concrete surface. Both should be cleaned with a soft
scrub brush, using like warm water and a non-abrasive household detergent.
Sails should be thoroughly rinsed and allowed to dry spread out in the open air. If
you can hang them where they will not be whipped around, all the better Hang
them only from the head to the tack as they are hoisted on the boat.
Ironing is not recommended. This can cause localized fusing of the filaments and
distortion of the cloth. This can never be cured. The safest treatment for sails
which are badly creased is hosing them down with water and spread them out or
hang them as discussed. Sails may also be laundered in their bag using a
washing machine set at the permanent press setting. Alternatively, there are
companies who specialize in cleaning sails. You local sail maker has this service.
Storage
Sails should be completely dry before being stored for a long period of time in
order to prevent discolouration. They should be stored loosely in a dry area
where the air can circulate freely. It is important to avoid creases and ensure that
the area is dry. One of the best ways for storing sails is to roll them from the head
to the foot keeping the luff together. If possible, we recommend you roll the main
around the boom and hang the boom from the rafters.
11.
e them carefully for the off-season. Sails should be checked,