Knots/Caring for cordage

Cordage is often expensive, and is generally a pain to replace in any case. For all cordage, there are some things you can do to maximize its lifespan:

• Protect cordage from rough treatment
  • Do not stand on cordage - especially synthetics
• Keep cordage away from chemicals, oil, grease dirt and grit
• Avoid extremes of cold or heat
• Limit exposure to sunlight — even for UV-stable cordage
• Wash and rinse (thoroughly) your cordage regularly
• Keep natural fibre ropes dry
• Load-bearing cordage must be inspected regularly
  • Look for cut or frayed fibres, wrinkled or ruptured sheath, glazing/fusing from thermal friction
• Keep a log for load-bearing cordage
  • Even though the sheath is flawless, it may mask internal damage
  • Cordage with a history of hard work, or severe shock-loading should be retired or downgraded
  • Base your cordage life cycle off the specs and the specific applications - ask your retailer for assistance if necessary, or get trained
• Only short lengths of non-production rope should be folded - everything else should be coiled.