Kayaking is one of the most renowned water sports. These wakeboard boats are simple to use, very light, easily accessible, and enjoyable for people of all ages.
Despite this, buying a classic padded kayak has several drawbacks. One of them is that it takes up significantly more storage than an inflatable raft. In conclusion, correctly storing your kayak is critical not only for getting it out of the path but also for preserving it.
So, if you have a kayak at home, keep reading for some amazing kayak storage ideas. That way, you will be able to use your kayak for several years.
Let’s have a glimpse at the different choices!
How to get your kayak ready for storage?
Before you ever consider keeping a kayak, there are a few things you should know. When you are organized to take it out of storage, these will help to protect it from decay.
These precautions are particularly important during the wintertime. It is the time when your kayak will most be resting idle for several weeks or months.
So, let’s look at several alternative ways to prepare a kayak for storage!
- Selecting a place
- Cleaning your Kayak
- Kayak Covers
- Positioning your Kayak
Selecting a Place
You must have a decent knowledge of where you want to preserve your kayak before you consider storage solutions. The first step is to choose a location large enough to accommodate your kayak.
However, you have to keep your kayak out of the bright sun and apart from a heating element. It is also a good idea to keep your kayak anywhere where the temperature will not drop below zero or soar above 100 degrees.
As a consequence, the best alternative for kayak storage is usually indoors.
Cleaning your Kayak
You must always wash your kayak before transporting it. Caked-on dust, particles, and oils will decline the kayak’s surface over time. To cleanse it, carefully remove any debris and oil from both the interior and exterior of the kayak with a light cleanser and a cloth.
Then, make sure there is no soap residue on the surfaces by carefully rinsing. After washing, use a soft cloth to clean the kayak’s surface.
Must check for any residual water near the drain stopper or in the hatches. While your kayak is in maintenance, moisture can not only erode the paint, but it can also allow mold spores to develop.
Kayak Covers
A kayak storing cover is suggested whether you intend to preserve your kayak indoors or outdoors. These coverings will keep water and pests out of your boat while it is being maintained.
Instead, you can protect your kayak in processing with a sheet. Make sure there is enough room between the kayak and the tarpaulin to avoid water from accumulating.
Positioning your Kayak
When it concerns kayak storage, the most crucial point to consider is location. You must first select whether you’d like to keep your kayak horizontally and vertically.
Both have their own merits, but the kayak must never be stored straight when stored horizontally. Over time, this will lead the kayak’s bottom to droop.
Multiple Kayak Storage Ideas
Racks are a great way to store your kayak. They are convenient as they are simple to assemble and transport. You can transfer them from your primary home to a summer cottage by moving them from inside to outside. The compact two-kayak rack shown below is lightweight and portable.
- Kayak Storage Racks
There are three different styles of kayak racks, as shown below;
- Malone 6 Kayak Rack System
Most individuals do not require the storage of six kayaks, which this shelf can accommodate. However, if you have the necessary storage space, this is a very practical method of storing them.
If you only get one or two kayaks, you will be capable of storing other items. If you have a couple of stick-up paddleboards, they will fit on this rack.
It can also be utilized to hold all of the necessary accumulations. These supplies can be life jackets, rope, weatherproof storage bags, and a water heater.
- Small Two Kayak Storage Rack
If a six-kayak storage shelf is too much large here is a two-kayak storage rack that can hold up to 175 pounds. It doesn’t require much room and, in this way, tossing your kayaks into it is a breeze.
Another advantage is that it does not require mounting to walls and ceiling. It is not only simple to put up, but you can also shift it around as needed.
- Freestanding Rack
This shelf is convenient since the spacing between each side can be adjusted. For longer kayaks, this could be the best solution. Depending on the requirements, they can be utilized indoors or outdoors. This can be used to store kayaks in a workshop, basement, or outside.
Free-standing kayak mounts come in a variety of materials, including wood and aluminum. You can also build one for yourself to match the number of kayaks you have.
- Garage Kayak Storage Ideas
Following is some of the ideas of storing kayak in the garage:
- Ceiling Mount Rack
If you wanted to keep your kayaks overhead, this is a fantastic alternative. It can hold two kayaks and fits them snugly against the roof. This kayak storage systems allow you to neatly store up to two boats along with your garage ceilings.
Thus, it can be used with a variety of kayaks. The heavy-duty metal framework can take up to 150 pounds. The cushioned handle arms will support your kayaks tenderly and protect them from scratching.
- Kayak Storage Hoist
Do you need to make some room on your floor? You will benefit from the hoist storage solution. It stops your kayak from sinking into the bottom. When you are prepared to get in the water, simply lower them using the rope lifting mechanism.
This rack has a weight capacity of 125 pounds and it is perfect for a single kayak. Additionally, it is simple to operate. Rubber-coated fasteners are included with it. They provide scratch protection for your kayak.
- Wall-Mounted Rack
This hook-style racking could be mounted on the door frame. It will hold your kayaks in position without taking up too much room on the floor. The adaptability of a wall-mount shelf is appealing.
It can be bolted to any sturdy sufficient surface to support the hard shells. It will also be used to store kayaks on its edge. Take into consideration how high you would like to install it.
A wider rack allows you to put items somewhere under the kayak. Also, it takes more energy to pull the kayak into place.
- Storage Cover
You will certainly need a kayak cover, irrespective of the nature of the kayak storage method you choose. This is particularly true if you keep your items outside. These are inexpensive and simple. They hide the apertures by wrapping around the tops.
It is highly recommended that you include a kayak covering with your kayak storage space, irrespective of the type. Mold, fungus, UV radiation, and vermin will all be protected by a canopy. They conceal all gaps by wrapping around the top of the kayak.
- Kayak Outdoor Storage Stand
This is not great, but it is preferable to being on the floor. With this, you will probably need a carrying case or a tarpaulin. Also, if your kayak is super heavy, it may not accommodate your basement or garage.
Although keeping your kayak outside is not ideal, it may be necessary if you run out of resources in your garage. In this scenario, storing the kayak on a display instead of on the surface is preferable. This kayak stand has a straightforward design.
- Kayak Outdoor Storage Shed
This outdoor storage structure is ideal for storing a large number of kayaks. It has many floors where you can store numerous kayaks while keeping them protected from the outdoors. This kayak storage system will preserve your kayaks in top shape all year.
Thus, kayak storing shelters can be purchased pre-assembled, or you may construct one yourself! In this way, you will get this option along with this!
- Kayak Tent
A kayak tent is a terrific option because the optimal spot for keeping a kayak is shielded from the environment. First and foremost, select a well-protected location. You have to choose an exterior wall that is far away from the sun or light. This is the ideal place to select.
After that, you can build an inclined A-frame with vertical beams square against the frame. Make sure there are some horizontal supports to sustain the kayaks.
- DIY Kayak Storage Rack
Kayak storage racks are designed straightforwardly. As a consequence, you may simply construct one with only a few simple techniques. Also, some tools are required for the DIY project.
A kayak wall rack or a standalone rack can be made out of an array of substances, such as wood or PVC. The kayak mounts are all quite simple. That is why you can build your kayak wall rack or independent rack.
When it comes to the substance of the rack, you can choose between PVC and wood. You must maintain the kayak regardless of how well the storage method is since oils and grime can harm the surface. Finally, and most significantly, choose the best location for your kayak storage.
Kayak Carts for Kayak Storage
Pulling a large kayak from the car is a tremendous challenge. But what if there was a gadget that did the majority of the work for you? A kayak cart is a suitable alternative! A kayak cart is a compact structure with rollers.
So, let’s move towards the different types of Kayak carts!
- Sit-in or Sit-on-Top Trolleys
- Folding Cart
Sit-in or Sit-on-Top Trolleys
Sit-in trolleys or carts are primarily designed for sit-in kayaking as well as sea kayaks and canoes. They do not have a built-in splash or self-draining openings. However, these can also be used for sit-on-top kayaks.
They usually come with a belt that you can use to secure them to your kayak. If you are paddling with your family, a kayak cart can help them learn to transfer their kayaks.
A sit-on-top (SOT) trolley mounts to the kayak with hooks that go into the splash holes straight. Due to their solidity, these carts are typically regarded as the most efficient kind of cart.
Most leisure sit-on-top kayaks will use SOT trolleys or plug-in kayak carts. Thus, not all splash openings are the same length.
Folding Cart
Here is another type of kayak cart named Folding Cart. These carts are typically utilized on the bow or rear of the kayak. They may be disassembled, packed down, or folded away for convenient transportation and storage at homes.
These are common among hikers and families since they are simple to transport. With all of the other gear needed for a weekend vacation, this may be a massive challenge. So, this is the right choice for you to pick the folding cart.
What is the inexpensive way to build a kayak?
When I first began looking at kayak carts, I discovered that they might be pretty costly. Fortunately, I have worked out how to make a DIY kayak cart that is cheap and economical.
Here are a few instructions on the construction process.
Requirements
The benefit of this concept is that it doesn’t necessitate a bunch of mechanical expertise. It also takes extremely little time. In approximately an hour, you will be able to complete the DIY kayak cart.
Here’s everything you will have to put your cart together:
- Grade 40 PVC pipe in a 10-foot segment
- (7) 1 inch PVC tee connections
- Three 1-inch PVC covers
- PVC gluing
- A 3-foot section of 5/8 wheel rim
- 5/8-inch create-a-bolt package (nuts, washers, and lock washers included)
- (2) 10-inch Hydraulic tires
- Giant play noodles
Instructions:
It is essential to remove the PVC tubing into different areas once you have gathered everything you require for your DIY kayak trolley.
You can slice the tubing in a variety of ways. Without a doubt, Pipe clippers are the finest. A chop cutter is also an excellent choice. If you don’t have one of them, a hack saw will suffice.
Length of Pipes
The appropriate sections of pipe will be required:
18 inches x 1 inch
10.5-inch x 10.5 inch
4 inches x 8 inches
4.5 x 2 inches
4 inches x 3 inches
1.75 x 2 inches
Steps to Follow
Next, you will punch a 5/8-inch hole in the center of each of the two end covers. It is now reasonable to implement the base of the cart together.
Take the two end caps with the opening and attach them separately into two 1.75-inch sections. Place them on one edge of the (2) tees and epoxy them in place.
Next, glue all edges together. This step is crucial because the backrest will be made from the central hole of the tees. You have to cut the connected shafts and slip them through the lower part that is complete.
You will assess the bottom area of your cart and add 8 inches equal to the amount you have to trim.
After that, you have to attach (2) tees to both sides of your 10.5-inch pipe. Glue the upper and bottom sections together, as well as (2) of the 3-inch pieces. Next, you will build the two handrails that the kayak will stand on from here.
All you have to do now is put on the colorful tubes, and you’re ready to go. You must slice the fun noodles into four equal portions.
Cheers! You have a kayak cart!
Is it safe to store your kayak vertically?
Any sorts of penetrates and defects can occur if you don’t know how to keep a kayak appropriately. A deformed hull can be repaired, but it is tough. In this way, the outcomes are never assured, and your kayak would never be the same.
The good news is that with a little planning and proper maintenance, your kayak will serve you well for many years to come. It is one of the safest and most ideal options to store your kayak vertically.
You can simply place your kayak on its sides on the surface and keel against the barrier. Try to place the kayak in such a way that it will be hard to remove from its storing spot. Use this vertically placing method for further personal satisfaction.
Note: Note that resting directly on the stern of a kayak for a lengthy amount of time is not recommended. It should also not be placed on the sides without enough assistance, as the plastic shell may be damaged.
How to store the Kayak in the right position?
Your kayak has a very distinctive structure that allows it to function well on the water. ABS and frequent plastic are extremely robust. Thus, they are prone to breakage if the kayak’s burden is not well balanced.
The weaker areas of the hulls will distort if the load of the kayak is not adequately supported. It can affect the kayak’s stability and effectiveness on the water.
Here are the ideal settings to protect your kayak’s shell from bending, whether you are keeping it inside or out:
- On the bow, vertically. The easiest technique to minimize hull pressure is to hold your kayak straight on its bow. Then push the shell square against a wall. Most residences, on the other hand, lack the vertical storage capacity required to store a 12+ foot kayak.
- On the pavement, on the sidewalls. Directly place your kayak on its side on the floor and stern up against the wall. On the bright side, the majority of the mass is placed in the head, which is the kayak’s toughest and least likely to distort.
Is it necessary to clean your kayak before keeping it for an extended period?
Dust, dirt, seaweed, salt, and other dirt and debris will collect on the inside and outside your kayak over time. Thus. the dirt might harm the surface of your kayak.
So, it is a great way to give your kayak a deep clean with warm water and soap before storing it for a long time. Must wash it with water under the ports and the many other hiding places.
After a thorough cleaning, make sure your kayak is completely dry before storing it. Make sure, it is cleaned within the vents and other water-tight sections. Rust and fungi can form in the liquid inside the flaps, causing the plastics to degrade.
What to avoid while storing your Kayak?
When storing your kayak, you should take some precautions. Let’s glance at some of the factors you should think about when storing your kayak!
- You need to avoid storing your kayak on its edge or sides. When you stand up straight in your kayak as if you were floating in it. The complete load of the kayak rests on the shell, forcing it to distort.
The mass will be distributed between the top and bottom, as well as any protruding elements of the kayak.
- Hanging your kayak on its grip hooks is not a good idea. The kayak’s pressure will cause the hull to droop down, leading it to distort. In this manner, you have to avoid it.
- You need to keep your kayak away from a source of heat. High temperatures will accelerate the warping and deformation of the kayak’s plastics. That is the reason, keep it away from water heaters and ovens.
Conclusion
Free-standing kayaking mounts, wall fixing, ceiling hanging, and more are just a few of the kayak storing options available. Thus, in this article on kayak storage ideas, you will get more options for keeping your kayak so that it stays in top shape.
After reading this article, I am sure you will get your preferable choices to store your kayak. If you have got different ideas then must share your favorite one!
