mast up or down for winter?

[docent]

I have a catalina mk 28 tall rig. I have always removed mast for winter storage because I read it is less stressful on deck. Thoughts? If the mast is left up (cheaper), please advise right way to loosen stays and shrouds, how loose is loose and when is it too loose?

thanks

[Rockter]

Don't make it so loose that the wind will wobble it about.
I have not tensioned the rig for a long time now.

[brak]

I try to remove the mast. Enough cracks in mast base created during the time in water - certainly don't need to add to that while on shore (particularly because on shore boat can't heel and let wind pressure spill off).

It ain't cheap around here - but I think for what it saves in future repairs, it may be worth while.