A Guide to Sail Care & Maintenance

I remember the first time my mainsail gave out on me—it was a lesson learned the hard way. Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks to keep my sails in top shape, and I'm here to share them with you. From daily inspections to handling unexpected repairs, these tips come from real-life experiences on the water.

A stitch in time...

The First Line of Defense: Regular Inspection

Regular inspection is the cornerstone of any good sail maintenance program. I give my sails a quick once-over after each time I sail, looking for any obvious signs of wear or damage. These post-sailing checks don't need to be exhaustive, but they can help me catch small problems before they escalate.

I also do more thorough inspections at the beginning and end of each sailing season. This is the time to really scrutinize every inch of my sails. I look closely for tears and holes, even tiny ones, as these can quickly grow under the stress of wind and waves.

Having learned the hard way, I pay attention to the stitching, checking for loose or broken threads, especially in areas of high stress like the seams and edges. I also check for chafe, which is another common enemy of sails, particularly inspecting areas where the sail might rub against spreaders, stanchions, or other parts of the boat.

For those with laminate sails, be vigilant for signs of delamination, where the layers of the sailcloth begin to separate. Don't forget to check for UV damage, indicated by faded colour, brittle fabric, or weakened areas.

Finally, inspect the hardware, including slides, rings, and other fittings, for any damage or corrosion. And if your sails have battens, check them for cracks, splinters, or any signs of distortion.

Keeping them clean

Just like your boat itself, your sails benefit from regular cleaning. Saltwater, dirt, and grime can all degrade sailcloth over time. Regular cleaning throughout the season, and a more thorough cleaning at the end of the season, will help keep your sails in good condition.

The most important part of cleaning is simply rinsing your sails with fresh water. This simple step can remove a surprising amount of salt and dirt. A good shower of rain when underway can get the job done!

At the end of the season—if a simple rinse isn't enough—use a mild soap solution. It's crucial to use a gentle detergent specifically designed for sails, as harsh chemicals or bleach can damage the fabric. Avoid household cleaners or anything too abrasive.

When scrubbing, use a soft brush or sponge to gently remove dirt without damaging the sailcloth. And perhaps the most crucial step after washing is to rinse thoroughly. Make sure all traces of soap are removed, as any residue can attract dirt and grime.

Finally, before storing your sails, allow them to air dry completely to prevent mildew. Never put away damp sails.

Protection from the Elements

The elements, particularly the sun and wind, can be harsh on your sails. Protecting them from these forces is essential for longevity. The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays are a sail's worst enemy, causing fading, weakening, and eventual breakdown of the fabric. When your sails aren't in use, cover them or store them below deck to minimize sun exposure.

For roller furling headsails, make sure the sacrificial UV cover is in good condition and providing adequate protection.

Wind can also be damaging, especially when if sails are left to flog (flap uncontrollably). Flogging can quickly tear and weaken sails.

When you're not sailing, secure your sails properly or take them down altogether. Even when at anchor or in a slip, make sure sails are furled or covered to prevent them from being damaged by wind.

Moisture is another concern. Always store your sails in a dry, well-ventilated area to prevent mildew.

Maintenance and Repair

Even with the best care, sails can sometimes require maintenance and repair. Small tears can often be temporarily patched with sail repair tape, a handy item to keep in your boat's repair kit.

However, for more significant damage, it's always best to consult a professional sailmaker. They have the expertise and equipment to make proper repairs that will stand up to the stresses of sailing. Worn or damaged stitching should also be repaired by a professional.

Don't attempt to sew heavy sailcloth yourself unless you have the right equipment and experience. Inspect the hardware regularly and replace any damaged or corroded fittings.

Consider having your sails professionally inspected and cleaned at the end of each season. A sailmaker can identify potential problems and perform preventative maintenance that can extend the life of your sails.

Be kind to your sails

Proper use is just as important as cleaning and maintenance. Avoid overloading your sails in heavy winds. Reef early to reduce stress on the sailcloth. Trimming your sails correctly is also crucial. Proper sail trim not only improves performance but also reduces stress and wear.

Avoid letting your sail flog as much as possible by sailing efficiently and securing sails when not in use. And be mindful of chafe. Use chafe guards or padding where sails come into contact with other parts of the boat to prevent wear.

Putting Them to Bed: Storage Best Practices

Proper storage is the final step in ensuring your sails stay in good condition. Before storing your sails, make sure they are clean and completely dry. Fold or roll them loosely, avoiding sharp creases that can damage the fabric. Store them in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from moisture and extreme temperatures. A sail bag or dedicated storage area is ideal.

A Few Extra Tips for the Savvy Sailor

Most of us keep an Engine Log, but its a good idea to keep a sail log as well, recording when sails were cleaned, inspected, and repaired. This can be a valuable tool for tracking the condition of your sails over time.

Don't hesitate to consult a sailmaker for advice on sail care and maintenance. They are a wealth of knowledge and can provide valuable insights specific to your sails and sailing conditions.

Finally, always use the right products when cleaning or repairing your sails. Choose cleaning products and repair materials specifically designed for sails to avoid damaging the fabric.

By following these sail care and maintenance practices, you can significantly extend the life of your sails, delaying the day when you have to dig deep into your pocket when you have to renew them.