Mildew on Sails

[SVLydia]

I have noticed some mildew on my laminated sails. What is the proper way to eliminate mildew? I want to make sure and use the right method so the sails aren't damaged.

I found a video of another Telstar on You Tube and was amazed on how bright and clean his sails looked. Check the link if you want to see what the sails are supposed to look like.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTkT...vvDFtQI0E2L5fb

Its obvious mine need attention. Any ideas?

Randy

[JPA Cate]

Hello s/vLydia,

I am sorry to be the bearer of sad tidings, but according to our sailmaker, once laminated sails get mildew between the layers, that is their death knell. There is no reason not to finish using the sails up, but they will de-laminate.

I'm on a metered connection here, and am not going to look at the video of the other sails, but new and new-ish sails always tend to look better than ones that are on their last legs.

It's time to start saving up for a new or a better set of used sails.

Ann

[SVLydia]

Ouch Ann!! Not was I was hoping to hear, but thanks for your honesty.

What would it cost for a new laminated sail? I have no idea....just looking for some idea.

Randy

[a64pilot]

Talk to a good reputable sailmaker, you may not want or need laminated sails, and only they could give you a price.

[SVLydia]

I will be in the West Palm Beach area.....any recomendations on a good sail maker?

[jibstay]

http://macksails.com in Stuart FL.

I haven’t purchased new sails from them, but I have had a sail repaired. Great work at a fair price. I haven’t heard anything negative about them from anyone.

[UNCIVILIZED]

When pondering on sail materials, consider that unless you race, & truly need that last 2-3% of performance, going to a laminate on a boat this size falls into the luxury category. And odds are that laminated sails won't last nearly as long either. Note, that being a go fast aficianado, I'm all about having good sail shape. Which on a boat that size shouldn't be tough to achieve with Dacron. And tri-radial sails made from same may be the way to go as a balance of great shape,& long life.

[SVLydia]

Originally Posted by UNCIVILIZED

When pondering on sail materials, consider that unless you race, & truly need that last 2-3% of performance, going to a laminate on a boat this size falls into the luxury category. And odds are that laminated sails won't last nearly as long either. Note, that being a go fast aficianado, I'm all about having good sail shape. Which on a boat that size shouldn't be tough to achieve with Dacron. And tri-radial sails made from same may be the way to go as a balance of great shape,& long life.

I have little knowledge of sails so your comments are greatly appreciated. I read a few old posts talking about workmanship quality of sail makers, sounds like you would need to know a bit more than I do before ordering a sail.

Can you explain tri-radial? Where would you get your sails made?