How long do mainsails last?

[admin]

I was recently asked how often should one renew one's main? Typically? The sailor knew sails get baggy and lose their shape with use. But asked if there were any rules of Thumb out there which would suggest perhaps 5 year or 10 year intervals as a compromise between expense and better performance?

[admin]

Added to the obvious UV and use, wear on sails and the condition of the sewing can be a major factor in the useful life of the sail.  There is a tendancy for the sewing threads to shrink and break with age and use.  If you do not take down the sail occasionally and carefully inspect the sewing for worn or broken threads, and the material for any signs of wear, you will get a much shorter lifespan of the sail.
Re-sewing the worn or broken threads along with patching worn or obviously stressed sail areas can significantly lengthen the life of the sail.
There are many thinks like reefing blocks, lines, lazy jacks and areas rubbing against shrouds and spreaders that will significantly take years off your sail unless you patch and protect.