Sail Thread Deterioration

[dj2210]

My 135 Furling headsail has come apart. The threads on the leech deteriorated and the leech line was exposed. Took it to a local place to have stitched and we noticed some more on the luff. I don't know how old the sail is but it seems in decent shape and the PO said it was only a few years old. It is a Rolly Tasker sail. Is that normal for threads to deteriorate within 10 years assuming it is that age?

 

[Stu Jackson]

Pretty normal. The threads do go first. 10 years is pretty good. Think of how you'd feel if you were left out in the sun for ten years!

 

[dj2210]

Ha - I'm good for about 2 hours..

 

[Anonymous 121765]

DJ,

I also have a RT 150 jib. It's 3 years old now and the thread looks fine.
I was told by my canvas guy a number of years ago that there is a UV resistant thread made that will hold up longer.

Obviously, the price is probably higher, but on all my canvas & sails I make sure to use this. Or, at least this is what I specify. Check some canvas & sailmakers & ask them if this is indeed fact, and do they use it.

CR