Cheap Ways For Storing Your Kayak Indoor & Outdoor
Kayaks are usually found in storage rather than in the water. Furthermore, they can easily warp if not properly stored because they are made of thin materials for maximum performance. Keep the vessel out of inclement weather and stressful situations. To do so, you’ll need to come up with a space-saving, convenient, and cost-effective storage solution for your vessel. Here are five cost-effective options to consider when it comes to indoor kayak storage.
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Low-Cost Kayak Storage Options: Mounting on the wall using a kayak rack
Mounting your kayak on a wall is one of the simplest and most efficient ways to store it, particularly in a garage. A mounting storage rack for kayaks and plenty of wall space is that is required. It is simple to install the mount if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions, as each is installed slightly differently.
Before you install the mounting rack, make sure the chosen area has the following characteristics:
- There is no direct sunlight;
- The garage door won’t knock the kayak when opened;
- There are studs to drill into;
- Water/moisture won’t drip down the mounting wall.
Install the kayak rack after making sure the space meets the above criteria. Make sure the arms are well-padded. This will keep the integrity of your kayak for a longer period of time.
Although some of the kayak storage racks can hold more than one kayak, the majority, if not all, only requires a single installation. As a result, you get a dependable and durable storage solution for your kayak after each trip. You can save money by making your own kayak rack if you are a DIY enthusiast. Here’s someone demonstrating how he managed to do it:
Using portable stands
If you have enough floor space, portable kayak stands are the most flexible and convenient way to store your kayak. They take up more space depending on the width and length of your kayak, but they are one of the best options for setting up your kayak outdoors.
As the name implies, you can move your stands around whenever you need to use the floor space in the garage. You could also consider erecting a tent outside and using the stand to keep the yak underneath the tent and off the floor.
Furthermore, there is no need to drill any holes, which means no need to refill them whenever you move or redesign. This shouldn’t be an issue in most cases, but just to be sure, make sure your kayak weighs less than the kayak storage stand’s weight capacity. Making sure the kayak is completely empty and clean before storing it is a good tip for this.
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. That being said, if there is still some space between the ceiling and the garage door when it is open, you can still store the kayak in the limited space you have to work with.
Because this is a do-it-yourself project, you’ll need to be handy. In any case, the following tools will be required:
- Tape measure;
- Screwdriver;
- Four nylon ties straps;
- Four eyebolts;
- A drill.
Once you have all of the necessary tools, begin by measuring a 20-inch wide space in which to install the eyebolts required to hang the kayak.
Check the front of the kayak’s position and mark it with a pencil. Now, drill the holes you marked based on the size of the bolts. Use the screwdriver to screw the eyebolts in drilled holes.
Repeat the process for the kayak’s back, making sure to measure the distance precisely. Connect all four nylon hook straps to the eyebolts once they are securely screwed into the ceiling.
Now, with a little assistance, slide your kayak through the tightened straps to keep it from falling back. Tighten the straps to the point where the kayak is near the ceiling. Your kayak is now safely stowed without getting in the way of you or other items.
Here’s a step-by-step video on how to hang a kayak above the garage door:
Storing the kayak upright (Vertically along the wall)
If you don’t have enough width in your garage, you might want to think about storing your kayak upright. It is the cheapest and easiest DIY storage solution, despite being one of the least recommended.
Secure kayak wall mounts, a couple of straps, and a piece of foam to pad the stern is all you’ll need. Also, make sure your garage is high enough to accommodate your kayak.
To keep your kayak from falling, attach the wall mount to the studs once you have all of the necessary equipment. Place the foam on the floor, then raise your kayak and secure it to the mount. Because the kayak will not put much weight on the studs, there is no need to be concerned about properly installing the mount, but it is still a good idea to do so.
Hanging kayak from the ceiling using an overhead suspension system
If you’re short on space in your garage, hanging your kayak from the ceiling is probably the best and most cost-effective option. Because the system is somewhat complicated, purchasing an overhead suspension system that includes all of the necessary parts for a secure installation is the best option. It comes with a detailed installation guide to assist you in properly installing it.
However, before installing, look for ceiling studs where the mounting hardware can sit. Also, ensure you buy a system that can support the weight of your kayak. The weight capacity is indicated in the user manual, but make sure you check the product description before you place an order.
Some systems are expensive, so do your research to find an option that fits your budget. If you have multiple kayaks, 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.
Storing Kayak Indoor & Outdoor: Conclusion
It is not necessary to spend a lot of money to store your kayak indoors. I’ve outlined 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 have you covered as well.
About the author: 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!
