Hey all,
While out on the harbor the other evening my main developed a tear about six feet in length just above one of the seams. It extends back to the leech but the leech itself is still intact. It's about 25 feet up (40 foot luff). Looks like a pretty clean tear.
It appeared out of nowhere, not like there was significant wind or gusts or anything. I am unsure of the sail's age, I believe the prior owners of my boat bought it used since the number on it does not correspond to anything on my boat. This makes me worry that the whole thing is just waiting to self destruct from the cumulative effects of sun and years.
Considering the short season here in Massachusetts and the fact that I just started my vacation and was hoping to get some sailing miles in, should I try getting this professionally fixed or just throw some Dacron tape on it and hope for the best? I've already called one loft but haven't gotten a call back, was going to try a few more on Monday. First experience with sail repair, just trying to get an idea of how to proceed.
I think this winter's project might be getting some new sails, just want to enjoy the rest of the season in the meantime.
Thanks!
While out on the harbor the other evening my main developed a tear about six feet in length just above one of the seams. It extends back to the leech but the leech itself is still intact. It's about 25 feet up (40 foot luff). Looks like a pretty clean tear.
It appeared out of nowhere, not like there was significant wind or gusts or anything. I am unsure of the sail's age, I believe the prior owners of my boat bought it used since the number on it does not correspond to anything on my boat. This makes me worry that the whole thing is just waiting to self destruct from the cumulative effects of sun and years.
Considering the short season here in Massachusetts and the fact that I just started my vacation and was hoping to get some sailing miles in, should I try getting this professionally fixed or just throw some Dacron tape on it and hope for the best? I've already called one loft but haven't gotten a call back, was going to try a few more on Monday. First experience with sail repair, just trying to get an idea of how to proceed.
I think this winter's project might be getting some new sails, just want to enjoy the rest of the season in the meantime.
Thanks!