Everyone has a piece of rope somewhere that is used for everything. Take something to the municipal landfill and tie up your trailer or just secure the ladder while cleaning the gutters. In shipping, people work with rope every day. In the end it is somewhat self-evident that every piece of rope can still be used properly. However, rope does require some maintenance to continue to use it safely.
Rope material
Rope has different properties, depending on the material it is made of. Rope is made from natural or artificial raw materials.
Some natural types of materials that rope can be made of are:
- Agave fiber (Sisal)
- Jute
- Cotton
- Hemp
- Wool
- Coconut threads
Of the examples mentioned, coconut thread is the least strong and hemp the strongest material. Rope made from natural products has some negative properties. The materials expand when they get wet (any previously made knots are then difficult to remove). They can freeze (the rope can then break easily) or rot. They are also not very durable.
Some examples of types of material of artificial (synthetic) rope in home, garden and kitchen use are:
- Polyester
- Polypropylene
- Nylon
Improved properties of synthetic rope compared to rope made of a natural material are mainly durability, strength and weight.
Rope maintenance
Below are some tips for maintaining rope to keep your rope in top condition.
Store the rope in a dry, dark, cool place
Sunlight, heat and moisture affect the condition of the material.
Remove any knots after use
Long-fitting buttons weaken the material at the level of the button.
Keep the rope clean
Acids, alkalis, oils, and solvents can attack and damage the rope. Clean rope with warm water and washing-up liquid. Rope that has come into contact with seawater must be thoroughly cleaned before it is stored.
Avoid exposure to heat or sparks
Heat can be disastrous for the strength, especially with synthetic rope types.
Don’t walk on rope
The local weight load can cause damage. Clear rope off the ground as well. This prevents damage and accidents.
Regularly inspect the rope
Check the rope regularly, meter by meter, for breaks and wear. Replace ropes in poor condition to maintain safety.
