As winter approaches and temperatures drop, most people consider storing their kayaks for several months. But due to its bulk size, storing a kayak sometimes becomes challenging. So, if you have a few kayaks, how to store a sit-on-top kayak perfectly with others?
Keeping a kayak vertical is one of the best ways to store it indoors and outdoors. And for storing the kayak vertically, it’s ideal to use a cockpit facing outward against a wall. Also, if you want to store a kayak indoors for a short period, hanging them upright is an ideal way to keep it safe.
So, Today I would like to share with you some important information about storing kayaks. If you want more details please continue reading.
Where do you store the kayak—inside or outside?
The number of kayaks and the available space are two significant factors in determining storage placement. Besides, whatever the option you have to keep your kayak (indoors or outside), you need to be aware of proper storage procedures to ensure that it stays in good condition at all times.
For Indoors
If you can store your kayak inside, you should consider yourself fortunate. Keeping a kayak indoors, whether in a shed, garage, basement, or any other numerous options, is regarded as one of the most efficient ways to keep it safe and secure.
Consider the following tips when you prepare your kayak for indoor storage:
- Keep the boat in a corner where sunshine doesn’t come directly. If you do this, your kayak will last longer and look better.
- You should store your kayak in a place that may not block the walkways and disturbs passersby.
- It will be best if you can control the room temperature according (temperature can be lowered or raised) to your desire.
For Outside
You can also temporarily store your kayak outside while away from the water. Therefore, you need to dry out your kayak first before storing it. However, you can also store your kayak outside for an extended time. Outdoor kayak storage options include: keeping it on a covered porch; keeping it in a dry place beneath the overhang of a building.
Follow these tips to store your kayak outdoors for a long time:
- Avoid sun damage by covering your kayak with waterproof UV-resistant material.
- Store your kayak beneath a deck, under a tarp, or even hung up if necessary.
How to Store a Sit-On-Top Kayak? 8 Best Ways To Store a Kayak
Storage solutions for kayaks range from do-it-yourself stands to high-end garages. There is no single optimal storage solution when considering cost, space requirements, and accessibility. Find out how the manufacturer recommends stowing your kayak, and make sure to use padded cradles or wide straps to avoid any bruising.
You can Try this best Sit-on-top Kayak:
1. Storing the Kayak Vertically
The most common method that kayakers usually apply to store their kayak is flipping the kayak on its side and leaning it vertically against a wall. The kayak needs to be tilted to a small degree when holding it vertically. It prevents the kayak from falling over upright. Besides, when keeping it, ensure the stern is flat on the ground, the cockpit faces outward, and the bow points to the ceiling.
Moreover, you can attach some cushioning to the underside of your kayak to stay in place and offer protection. You might line the interior of a small box with a few towels or cushions and then lay the bottom of the kayak inside the crate. You can also secure the kayak’s top with a few support pegs inserted around its outside border on both sides.
2. Storing the Kayak Horizontally
A kayak’s side is one of the strongest sections of the boat. Finding a level area and a dry space is vital for keeping the kayak horizontal. Just flip it on its side and maintain a right angle between it and the wall. Placing it against a wall protects it from the outdoors elements. Remember not to set the kayak at a spot where the cockpit is directly in line with a wall.
However, your kayak can begin to dent based on its material if you store it horizontally. For example, plastic dents rapidly. Although flipping the kayak onto its opposite side once a month can prevent it from getting dented, it is better to avoid storing the kayak flat.
📌 You Can Also Check: Best Kayak For Lakes And Rivers Of 2022
Therefore, if you just want to keep your kayak for a short while, you can lay it flat horizontally. Otherwise, if the kayak is stored horizontally for an extended period, whether face up or face down, it will suffer substantial damage. Consequently, hanging it on the wall is recommended.
3. Cover the Kayak
Covering the kayak is a good idea whether you’re keeping it inside or outside. It is critical since keeping the kayak exposed to the sun or in a dusty, pest-infested garage will shorten its lifespan significantly. For extra protection, you can cover your kayak with a tarp, a cockpit cover, or a specially designed kayak cover.
Make sure to leave sufficient room between the cover and the kayak to prevent snow or rain from piling up on top of the kayak if you plan on storing it outside. Use a rope to suspend the tarp with poles or trees a few feet above the ground, and then pitch the tent-like structure. Create a makeshift tent by draping the tarp over the ropes; then, bring the kayak inside. Amazon has a great kayak cover available You can try this Kayak Cover:
4. Using Standing Racks
You can build or buy a rack to keep your kayak off the ground. These racks contain space for two to six kayaks, depending on their sizes. Like roof racks, most kayak wall racks consist of a pair of J-shaped hooks that attach to the wall and hold the kayak on its side.
Another safe and affordable way to store a sit-on-top kayak is a kayak rack made from PVC pipe. It’s great for do-it-yourselfers. Even though these racks take up the most space compared to the others, attaching wheels or casters makes them portable.
5. On Wall Hangers
Using wall hangers to create a cradle on the wall for a kayak is the most versatile and practical option. The cradles can hang from any suitable vertical surface. Such as a wall or fence within or outside the garage. These U-shaped hangers with a flat back require a custom fit.
The length of the hangers should be determined by the number of kayaks you need to store and the depth to which you intend to stack their contents. Remember that the higher the kayak, the more effort is required to hoist it into position.
Also Read: How To Hang A Surfboard On A Wall?
Moreover, this technique makes transporting and stowing your kayak a breeze. You can swiftly retrieve your kayak from these hangers and put it into your car when you’re ready to go for a paddle, making them ideal for short-term storage. Kayak wall hangers are very affordable. You can check out a Kayak wall hanger on Amazon.
6. Using Hoists
Hoists are a fantastic option for storing kayaks, allowing you to free up additional floor space. This system, installed on the garage’s rafters, permits you to keep your kayak above the garage’s ceiling and access it by drawing it up with a pulley. In most cases, this method requires two pulleys, a length of rope, and cradle straps to lift the hull.
Consider the depth of your kayak and the hoist system before using this method. You shouldn’t hang it from the grab loops on your boat because they weren’t meant to support its weight for an extended time.
7. On Hanging Straps
Storage straps hung from the wall are equivalent to cradles for stowing kayaks. The straps are at least two inches in width and are made of nylon. Since the straps will support the kayak’s whole weight for extended durations, they must be secured to a stud.
8. Using Sawhorse
Consider storing it on sawhorses if you’re searching for a cheap solution to keep your kayak. As long as cushioned, sawhorses or 2x4s can serve as support bars. The challenge is balancing the hull’s weight over all the struts. If the supports dent the hull, you should make them more comprehensive.
Folding sawhorse-style racks are available from several manufacturers. They are both sturdy and portable, making them ideal for taking to the launch site or even just keeping in the garage. These are versatile and may be used in the garage and the yard.
Some Tips for Storing Your kayak
Considering a few things is essential when securing your sit-on-top kayak for the off-season. Here’s some information on safe places and tips to keep your kayak:
- You need to select a location with enough space to place the kayak. If you plan and measure your storage space and kayak, you can do this work.
- Don’t leave your kayak where the sun can bake the plastic and degrade the color. The kayak should keep in a cool, dry, dark place.
- It’s important to check the temperature of the place you want to keep your kayak to protect it from extreme cold or heat. Avoid temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit and below zero degrees (37.7 degrees Celsius). It is essential to prevent your kayak from becoming fragile or becoming damaged.
- If you don’t have a lot of room at home but still need to keep the kayak for an extended time, you can consider storing it by service. You can keep your kayak safely at various locations, including marinas, public beaches, kayak rental shops, and kayaking academies.
Some places where you shouldn’t store your kayak
Now, we will describe some places where you should not store your sit-on-top kayak.
- On the Ground
Do not leave your kayak lying on the ground. If you do this, the water or the cold will damage the kayak. Hang your kayak somewhere dry, or try to cover the floor with tarps or something similar to keep it out of the rain.
- In Extensively Traveled Places
If it is kept against a wall or under low ceilings where you or others are likely to pass by, your kayak won’t be stored properly. It’s not worth risking the safety of others or putting yourself and your loved ones through an awful experience.
- Around Common household item
When hanging your kayak from the ceiling or the wall, be sure it won’t interfere with anything else. Attempting to reach something from behind or around the kayak can result in you losing your balance. You even can fall and destroy the boat.
What is the best way to store a kayak in the garage?
- Wall-hung rack. Although this storage method needs a substantial amount of wall space, it is a fantastic way to keep many kayaks in a garage without using up any available floor space.
- Install a Suspension System
- Build Vertical Racks for Storing
- Hanging Slings for the Wall.
- Make use of stands that can move around with relative ease.
How do I keep my kayak from being stolen?
- Keep the room locked where the kayak is stored
- Keep Them Away From Sight
- Build a Shed to store Kayaks and One That Comes Equipped with Locks
- Keep Track of Your Boat’s Identifying Number.
- You should hide the second ID number on your kayak in a different location.
- Obtain the Insurance for a kayak.
- Perform the Double Lock maneuver!
Frequently Asked Questions
Should kayaks be stored upside down?
The best way to keep the kayak from getting dents is to store it upside down. Again, be careful about how you put your kayak on the racks. Putting the kayak on its side puts the side resting on the bars at risk of being dented. Remember that the kayak should be stored upside down when not in use.
Can I store a sit-on-top kayak on its side?
Sit-on-top kayaks can store either upright on the deck or upside down, provided they are stable. Never lay a kayak horizontally on the ground for storage without protecting it first with a movable foam cushion or blanket. You can keep your kayak on its side if the J-shaped racks supporting it are cushioned and conform to the hull.
How do you store a kayak for the winter?
The kayak is best protected from the elements during the winter or other times of the year if stored indoors. However, this is not always possible. The outside location is fine as long as the boat is shielded from the elements (particularly the sun).
Final Verdict
We have already found the answer to the question-“how to store a sit on top kayak?” The various options for stowing a sit-on-top kayak that we’ve described above will allow you to choose the ideal way based on your individual needs. We hope the tips and guide we’ve offered will be helpful, and you’ll be prepared for what to do with your kayak this winter.
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