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Congratulations on your new sails! We understand that receiving new sails can be exciting, and we’re here to provide you with some important information to help you get started.

Your Sail Has Arrived. What’s Next?

We wanted to take a moment to thank you for your recent purchase and for choosing our company for your sailing needs.

We know you’ll have a blast with your new sails, and we can’t wait to hear about all the adventures you’ll have with them. Just remember to take good care of them, and they’ll take good care of you!

If you ever need any help or advice, we’re just a phone call or email away. We’re always here to support you and make sure you have the best sailing experience possible.

Unpack Carefully Using These Tips

Before installing your new sails take a moment to check things over.

First things first, how does the box look?

Is there any visible damage, water stains, or tears to the box? If there is take a picture and send it to us, we would like to be aware of these details.
Next, carefully cut open the box. Be careful cutting the tape, the sail is in a bag but can be damaged if you cut too deep.

Take a moment to inspect your new sails:

Double check your order number located on your sail bag, make sure it is yours.
Multi-Sail orders often ship in separate boxes, so make sure to check your tracking number or speak to our logistics team if you have questions.
Carefully remove the sails from the packaging and lay them out flat if you can.
Check them over to make sure your entire order has arrived, and inspect for any tears, holes, or defects.

If everything looks good, it’s time to install your sails.

Install your sails and check the fit. If you run into any issues or questions fill out the form below or give us a call. We wish you smooth seas, fair winds, and all the best on your sailing adventure.

Opening and Installing Battens

If your mainsail came with battens you’ll find them coiled in the box. Use the following tips to open them:

Take your battens to an open area away from people, vehicles, or water (Battens do not float).
Step on the coil while it is standing up and begin cutting away the tie-straps, allowing the coil to roll open slowly.
Watch the instructional video below, or click here for more information on measuring, cutting, and opening battens.
If your sail came with round battens and connectors please use the labels to assemble them prior to installation.

For tips on installing your battens first identify what type of batten pocket your sail uses. Then follow along below:

Removing And Installing Batten Hardware

This is a brief guide to help you quickly remove the batten hardware from your mainsail. Removing the hardware is a straightforward process, and you will only need a few tools to get started:

Drill (with a bit)
Screwdriver
Bag to store the hardware
Marking Pen

Once you’re ready to start installing your new or existing hardware you can follow along with this how to video or read a more detailed instruction on our page here.

Steps to follow:

Locate the hardware on your sail and remove the screws using a screwdriver or drill.
Keep your palm up underneath to catch the bottom plate and nuts and place in a bag to avoid losing pieces.
Follow the batten pocket to the luff of the sail where the hardware will be installed.
Slide the back-plate under the sail and line it up with the top and bottom plates.
Use a pen and your drill to mark locations for holes to be drilled in the sail.
Drop in the screws, tighten, and move on to the next one.

Installing Spreader Patches

Spreader patches are important to protect your sail from chaffing by spreaders or other sharp objects when pressed up against the sail. These patches are excellent preventive care to extend the life of your sails. If there is a risk of chafing on your sail from spreaders or other objects, or if our designers suggest it, spreader patches will be included with your sail. To ensure better performance in racing, it is strongly recommended to apply these spreader patches to your sail.

Steps to Install Spreader Patches

Hoist sail in light weather and mark location of spreaders where they contact sailcloth
Take sail down and move to a flat location to ensure even pressure on patch
Ensure sail is clean and dry before installing spreader patches to prevent mold and mildew growth
Place patch over marked area and angle according to preference, allowing for overlap of one to two inches
Peel back paper backing and secure patch to sail while removing trapped air, working in sections until entire patch is applied smoothly
Flip edge over and press down on overhanging section of insignia cloth at Leech to finish securing patch to sail
Repeat on opposite side of sail to protect it while tacking.

Read a more detailed walk-through here.

Using A Velcro Strap On Your Sails Clew

We supply a Velcro strap with each mainsail. It has a couple of functions. Follow along in the video below for an explanation of what it is and how to use it properly on your sail.

Benefits of the Velcro Strap included with each Mainsail

Enhanced stability and strength during heavy winds or stormy weather
Quick adjustments to tension of sail when not using a clew slug
Recommended to use even with other attachment methods
Adds additional peace of mind while sailing

Leech Lines and Foot Lines

Leech Lines

A leech line is a line that starts at the head of your sail and goes down to just above the clew. It is typically adjustable using cleats or Velcro tabs located at the clew or at reef points. By tightening this line, you can reduce flutter in the trailing edge of the sail and improve the shape of the sail.

Foot Lines

Foot lines, on the other hand, run along the foot of the sail between the tack and the clew. These lines are now standard on both mainsails and headsails, and it is easy to install them on an older sail that does not have them.

There are several configurations of leech lines available. If you are going to be installing leech and foot lines on your sail please click here for a tutorial page.

Installing Tides Marine Track Sliders

If you are using a Tides Marine Track and Slide system here is a quick video to help you install it.

The Tides Marine Track and Slide System is a revolutionary solution for mainsail handling.
If you’re having difficulty hoisting or lowering your mainsail, this system can help.
The system reduces friction in the mainsail luff track, making it easy to handle.
It’s designed to handle modern mainsails, including those with full or partially battened designs, large roach, and high aspects.

If your looking for more information please click here for a tutorial page.

Sailing with a Spinnaker or Genoa (Light Air Sails)

Watch this video for more information on how and when to use a light air sail.

Light Air Sails are most commonly Spinnakers or Genoas, these sails are characterized to be a large unsupported headsail that is used in light wind conditions where your jib and mainsails simply aren’t enough. Adding a light air sail to your boat can significantly increase your wind versatility.

Read more in our blog – Spinnakers: Rigging, Trimming, Gybing

Support If You Need It (Warranty Information)

If you have any issues or concerns, please don’t hesitate to let us know. We stand behind our products and are proud to offer the widest coverage warranty in sailmaking to ensure your satisfaction.

If you need to report any feedback or ask for assistance, please contact us at approvals@precisionsailloft.com or fill out the form below. We are here to help and want to make sure you have a great experience with our products. Thank you for choosing to sail with us!

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