Seaguard or Urethane coatings are applied to ropes to help protect ropes from water, abrasion and UV rays.

UV Light

Continual exposure to sunlight can affect the strength of rope. Polypropylene and Polyethylene ropes are highly susceptible to UV rays.

Specific Gravity

Generally refers to whether a rope sinks or floats. A rope with a specific gravity above 1.00 will absorb water and sink, and a rope with specific gravity below 1.00 will float. The amount over or under 1.00 specific gravity will influence how well the rope will sink or float, for example a rope with 1.15 specific gravity will not sink as far as a rope with specific gravity of 1.40.

Dynamic or Static

Dynamic ropes are able to stretch and absorb energy. Static ropes are designed to have very little stretch.

Splicing

Most rope constructions are spliceable and if done correctly can provide 90% to 95% of new rope strength.