[paulk]

>>The tape is there to hold the cut panel to it's original shape (as >>much as possible) and to prevent the tear from propagating further >>across the panel.

That's exactly the problem - those creases become holes in 1-2 sessions, not years! I had the same problem both with Retro 04' (not x-ply) and now with Tush. I try to rig it without creating to many creases. And I indeed have only 3-5 on my Tush., but they already developed into holes. I keep sails at room temps.
paul