Good(?) Old Sails

[LJ Efird]

Mainsail and genoa (furling) are 20 years old on C-30. At what point does one seriously need to consider replacing sails, and what are the indications that time has finally come, short of tearing or ripping under stress?

 

[Darrel]

When stretched out

More than likely sails that are 20 years old, even on a boat with less than average use, will be stretched out and baggy. The draft in the sail has moved so far aft that they no longer give much power to the boat. The boat will still sail, but you probably don't have anything to compare the performance drop off until new sails are made and you sail with those.Then you will probably say "WOW" didn't know my boat could be so easy to sail, so fast and with a lot less heel.Contact a local sailmaker, he can come out to your boat, evaluate your sails, show the good the bad and the ugly about them and quote you a price to upgrade to new ones.Good luck.

 

[Trevor - SailboatOwners.c]

Keeping the boat?

Hi LJ -While your sails may be serviceable, they really can't be repaired at 20 years, since the thread weakens over time, even if rarely used. If you enjoy sailing and expect to keep the boat for a few years, I'd defintely put replacing sails high on your list. You can contact a number of local sailmakers or take a look at the offerings from Doyle right here on this site. I was amazed at the improvement (both pointing and boat speed) with the new mainsail I ordered from CO by Doyle.Best,Trevor