For what it's worth, in 28 years, I've never had a wire break from the trees
swaying in the wind. I can't see the point in pulling them so tight that there
isn't any sag in the wire.

I use 1/4 inch nylon rope and if the rope needs to be replaced from UV damage,
or squirrels, then it's probably about time to do some maintenence on the
antenna anyway.

jw
k9rzz

I couldn't agree more! The 1/4" nylon rope is the way to go, and the longwire
doesn't have to be tight as a banjo string, to work well. Bring a butane
lighter up on the roof with you, so you can melt the loose ends to keep them
from fraying. I finish the knot work by securing the loose ends to the main
rope with some small black UV resistant cable ties. It neatens it up, and you
won't have to worry about it for years. Good DXing to you, Gary, Illinois,USA.