Page 19 - Maria Constantino "The Knot Handbook"

ROPE MAINTENANCE

Looking after ropes makes perfect sense, as rope in good condition can be relied on to do
its job safely and effectively. Well-maintained rope will also last longer and make knot-
z tying easier. Here are some tips for looking after your ropes.
0
1-
u
:::> • Untie knots as soon as possible after • Make sure that all ropes - synthetic
c use - leaving knots in place will and natural fibre - are thoroughly
0
a: weaken ropes. dry before storing them away.
1-
z

• Do not leave rope (or even smaller • Store cordage in a cool, dry, dark
stuff, like cotton or string) exposed place, with good air circulation.
to bright sunlight. Remember that
some polypropylene ropes degrade • Inspect your ropes periodically. Go
in UV light. over them yard by yard and look for
worn or broken smfaces.
• Avoid contamination from acids,
alkalis, oils and organic solvents. • Do not walk on ropes.

• Protect synthetic cordage from heat • Coil ropes loosely and hang them on
and sparks. pegs well above the floor.

• Wash sand, grit and oil off ropes in • Never leave rope lying loose on the
warm water containing household floor. It could become damaged and
washing-up liquid. cause accidents.

• For ropes that have been in sea
water, at the end of the season, before
they are put away in storage, soak and
nnse ropes 111 fresh water to remove
salt deposits.