Kayaks are more commonly found in storage than on the water. Furthermore, because they are made of thin materials for maximum performance, they are prone to warping if not properly stored. Keep the vessel away from inclement weather and stressful situations. To accomplish this, you must devise a space-saving, convenient, and cost-effective method of storing your vessel.
In what follows are five low-cost options to consider when it comes to kayak storage:
5 Affordable Ways For Storing Your Kayak
1. Mounting on the wall using a kayak rack
One of the simplest and most efficient ways to store your kayak, especially in a garage, is to mount it on the wall. For this, a kayak storage rack and plenty of wall space are required. It is simple to install the kayak wall mount given that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions, as each one is installed differently.
Before you install the mounting rack, double-check that the area you’ve chosen meets the following criteria:
- There are studs to drill into
- The garage door won’t knock the kayak when opened
- There is no direct sunlight
- Water/moisture won’t drip down the mounting wall
After ensuring that the space meets the above criteria, install the kayak rack while making sure the arms are well-padded. This will preserve the integrity of your kayak for a longer period of time.
Some of the kayak storage racks can hold more than one kayak, but the majority, if not all, only requires a one-time installation. As a result, you get a dependable and durable storage solution for your kayak after each trip.
Alternatively, you can make a kayak rack if you are a DIY enthusiast to save some bucks! Here is a video of someone showing how he managed to do this:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zb5cgFq6NVc
2. Using portable stands
If you have enough floor space, portable kayak stands are the most adaptable and convenient way to store your kayak outdoors and indoors. The downside is that they take up more space depending on the width and length of your kayak, but the upside is that they are one of the easiest options for storing your kayak outside.
As the name implies, you can move your stands around whenever you need to use the garage floor space. You could also set up a tent outside and use the kayak stand to keep the ‘yak underneath the tent and off the ground.
Furthermore, you do not have to drill any holes, which means you do not have to refill them whenever you move or redesign. Most of the time, this shouldn’t be an issue, but just to be sure, make sure your kayak’s weight is less than the weight of the kayak storage stand. A good tip is to make sure the kayak is completely empty and clean before storing it.
3. Storing it over the garage door
Your garage door may take up a lot of space, making it difficult to hang the kayak from the ceiling. However, if there is still some space between the ceiling and the garage door when it is open, you may still be able to store the kayak in the limited space available.
Because this is a DIY project, you’ll need to be a little handy. In any case, you’ll require the following equipment:
- Tape measure
- Screwdriver
- Four nylon ties straps
- Four eyebolts
- A drill
Once you have all of the necessary equipment, begin by measuring a 20-inch wide spot in which to place the eyebolts required to hang the kayak.
Check and mark the proper position for the kayak’s front with a pencil. Drill the holes you marked based on the size of the bolts.
Use the screwdriver to screw the eyebolts in drilled holes.
Follow the same procedure for the kayak’s back, being careful you correctly measure how far back it should be.
Connect all four nylon hook straps to the eyebolts once they are securely screwed into the ceiling.
Now, with a little help, slide your kayak through the tightened straps to keep it from falling back. Tighten the straps until the kayak is perpendicular to the ceiling. Now, your kayak is safely kept and won’t get in the way of other objects or you.
As usual, here’s a step-by-step video on how to hang a kayak above the garage door:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3uxeidqVxaY
4. Storing the kayak upright (Vertically along the wall)
If you don’t have enough width in your garage, you might want to explore upright kayak storage. Though it is one of the least recommended storage solutions, it is the least expensive and easiest to DIY.
Secure kayak wall mounts, a handful of straps, and a piece of foam to pad the stern are all you need. Also, be certain that the height of your garage is sufficient to accommodate your kayak.
Once you’ve assembled all of the necessary components, secure the wall mount to the studs to keep your kayak from dropping. Set the foam on the floor, then place your kayak on top and strap it to the mount. There’s no need to be concerned about positioning the mount on the studs because the kayak won’t be putting much weight on it, but it’s still a good idea to do it correctly.
5. Hanging kayak from the ceiling using an overhead suspension system
If you have limited garage space, hanging your kayak from the ceiling is probably the best and most cost-effective option.
Because the system is somewhat complicated, it is best to purchase an overhead suspension system that includes all of the necessary parts for a secure installation. It comes with a detailed installation guide to assist you in properly installing it.
However, before you begin, look for studs in the ceiling where the mounting hardware can be installed. Also, make certain that the system you purchase can support the weight of your kayak. The weight capacity is listed in the user manual, but before ordering, double-check the product description.
Some systems are costly, so do your research to find a system that fits your budget. If you have multiple kayaks, you may want to consider those that come in a pack of two or more.
This storage solution has the advantage of elevating the kayak out of the way in your garage. However, installation takes time and effort.
Final Thoughts & Takeaways
It is not necessary to spend a lot of money to store your kayak inside. I’ve highlighted a few tried and true methods for properly maintaining your kayak. There is a DIY solution for the majority of them, but if you know you aren’t that handy, we’ve also got you covered.
About the author:
Name: Ally Mash
Bio: A world traveler and outdoor enthusiast, Ally has spent most of his free time backpacking through South America, Iceland, Vietnam, and Europe. His mission is to get more people in the mindset of protecting our planet by sharing its beauty with fellow adventurers like him on Adventures Pursuit!
