Sail storage tips:

I can't quite remmeber which forum this came up on in the past, but after your questions(s) I thought it worth sharing here.

The question was:

What is the best method for storing sails: folding, rolling or flaking for off season storage?

For me, the answer is: It depends.

For my mainsail, I find it best to ensure the sail is clean and "completely" dry and then I roll it.

I loosen all battens and then use the middle batten to roll the sail.

Once rolled I then place the mainsail into a long storage bag or sleeve that can "breath".

The sleeve is then placed in a dry location protected from moisture, birds, insects, rodents, etc.

I also ensure nothing is stored on top of the sleeve or anything that can rub against the sleeve.

I used to fold/flake the main. However, over time I found the sail main would wear, weaken and eventually tear along the fold/flake lines

Since I've begun rolling the sail for storage, I've not had the problem.

For my head sails, lappers, hooters, spinnakers, etc. I used to fold/flake.

However, I experienced the same problem with wear, weakening and eventual tearing along the fold/flake lines.

More recently I ensure the head sails are completely dry and I use a stuff sack for "between use" and seasonal storage.

Since I've made this change, I've not experienced the wear, weakening and eventual tearing along the fold/flake lines.

That is probably because the fold/flake lines are completely random, when using the stuff sacks.

Does anyone else have any thoughts or advice???

Wow, look outside, it's snowing.

However, Spring is coming and it will soon be time to get the boat ready for the next season....waaa hoooo...!