From Barrier Rope to Sisal: Which Should I Choose?

Ropes range from tiny to large, from synthetic to natural. There are so many options to choose from that you may find yourself confused when you begin to look at the different choices you have. We’re here to make it easier for you.

Types of Rope and Their Many Uses

All rope can be divided into two main categories, natural and synthetic rope.

Natural Rope

Natural rope is often made from sisal, cotton, coir, hemp, or another type of fibre that is naturally produced. This type of rope tends to look natural and is usually off-white, tan, or brown in colour.

The benefits of natural rope are that it is heat-resistant and has reduced slippage. It’s also biodegradable, so you can use it anywhere and not worry when you need to leave it behind. However, there are some downsides, too. It’s easily damaged by mould and ultraviolet rays. If it is in water, the rope will deteriorate rapidly. It also shrinks if it’s in water.

What is natural rope used for? That depends, as it is quite versatile. In many cases, people will find it works well for décor related projects. The natural look makes it ideal for handrails and barrier ropes, as well as indoor and outdoor decorations, garden swings, and hanging plants. Since it doesn’t slip easily, it’s great for packaging and tends to hold tight when tied into a note.

Types of natural rope include:

Cotton: Used for crafts, toys for animals, camping and tying objects that require softness. This rope will tighten considerably with water, but it’s a soft rope that is useful for people and animals.

Manila/Hemp: Sturdy and durable, this rope is good for farm work and landscaping, as it resists the sun, but not rain. It can also be used in fishing nets or for exercise purposes.

Jute: Ideal for gardening and packages, jute is flexible, but not very durable. This rope works well for anyone trying to tie a bundle together.

Synthetic Rope

Synthetic rope is made up of nylon, polypropylene, polyester, or a combination of these. It tends to be found in more industrial applications. It is available in many different colours and thicknesses to choose from.

The benefits of synthetic rope are its strength and durability. This rope is also elastic and can stretch a little if needed. Synthetic ropes will last much longer than natural ropes, even when exposed to water and UV rays. You can expect a synthetic rope to last about 30% longer than natural. However, it is quick to melt when exposed to fire and it isn’t very eco-friendly. In addition, this rope tends to be slippery and can actually slide when knotted.

Thanks to their strength and ability to absorb shock, synthetic ropes are often used for lifting heavy items and for pulling. They can resist the shock and stretch a little to provide the perfect towing option.

Types of synthetic ropes include:

Nylon: Slick and stretchy, this rope is often seen in use with pulleys. The smooth surface means friction is not a big issue, so it can be used with winches, as well. It’s not great for water use, but is UV resistant and is frequently put to use for hanging clothes and tying plants.

Polyester: A good all-purpose rope, polyester rope tends to be one of the strongest and most durable options available to you. It is used mostly in marine applications, including winches and boats.

Polyethylene: Designed to resist water, polyethylene rope is often used for fishing and sailing, but it performs equally well in camping or on construction sites.

Polypropylene: Like other synthetic ropes, this one is ideal for use in the water. It’s light enough to float and can be helpful in marine applications. You’ll see it used in tree climbing and by electricians, as well, since it doesn’t conduct electricity.

Within these two options, you also have different options for the design of the rope, including braided, where several strands of rope are twisted and woven around a core string. Double braided means a braided core and then more braided around the outside.  This is very useful for adding strength. Twisted rope is just three pieces of rope that are twisted in the same direction. They can be split and pulled apart easily.

Hollow ropes are woven around like the braided version but without the core. Instead, there’s just space in the middle, so it works well for anchor lines and towing on water.

What to Look for When Buying Rope

The first thing to consider when buying rope is what you need it for. This will determine which rope you choose. For example, if you’ll be using the rope on water, you need to remember that natural ropes will tend to disintegrate too fast. If you need a barrier rope, ask yourself if it will be used indoors or outdoors. Will it get wet? This should help you make your decision.

In general, don’t use natural ropes in the rain or sun. Synthetic ropes are a much better choice in this situation. Choose carefully, as your excess will likely end up in the rubbish if you didn’t think about disposal.

Where Can I Buy Rope?

Rope may be purchased in many home improvement stores, but you need to be sure it’s high quality. Lower quality ropes may come apart or break when you are trying to use them. Depending on the task at hand, this may be rather dangerous.

High quality is the way to go, whether you want black rope, white rope, or something natural. You can also buy a reel of rope or just a section of rope in the length you need.

At Rope Services UK, we offer a wide range of ropes in all colours and types. Whatever you need them for, be it barrier rope, marine rope, or something else, you’ll have access to what you need. Check out our ropes today.