How To Store A Kayak

Storing your kayak in the correct way is the easiest way to ensure that it remains in the best condition possible.

There’s nothing better than a summer on the water. However, if you’re new to owning a kayak, you might be wondering how to store a kayak once the winter rolls around.

In this article, I will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to store a kayak, as well as some storing tips to prevent you from damaging your kayak.

Let’s get into it.

How To Store A Kayak 

The best way to store your kayak is off the ground. This can be achieved by a variety of different methods that include:

Storage Racks – A good method of storing your kayak is in a storage rack system. There is a tonne of different options and storage racks are one of the most popular storage methods when space isn’t an issue.

Suspension System – Hanging your kayak from the ceiling with a suspension system is an excellent space-saving option, as it allows you to keep your kayak up and out of the way. Suspension systems usually aren’t too expensive and support your kayak to ensure that it doesn’t warp.

Car Rack – Another option for storing your kayak is to use your car rack. This is an option that doesn’t require you to buy any more equipment, though it will involve you having to transport the car rack as well as your kayak every time you want to take it out on the water.

When it comes to choosing the location for storing your kayak, you will also need to make a note of the following conditions:

Sunlight 

Wherever you decide to store your kayak, you need to ensure that it is out of direct sunlight. Not only can strong UV rays damage certain materials when exposed to direct sunlight, but the color of your kayak will fade and cause your kayak to look much more weathered in a short period of time.

Moisture 

Another condition you should be aware of is moisture, and you should avoid storing your kayak in a location with high moisture levels. This comes down to the fact that moisture can cause mold growth, can warp kayaks, and can even cause their structure to deteriorate over time. This is why keeping your kayak outside isn’t recommended.

When it comes to keeping your kayak inside, you will want to ensure that it’s in a dry place where the moisture levels aren’t going to deteriorate your kayak. To achieve this, you might need to use a dehumidifier. 

Heat 

Last, but by no means least, you will need to keep your kayak in a cool, not cold location. This is due to the fact that heat can cause your kayak to warp over time, distorting the structure of the kayak if you’re not mindful.

However, despite the fact that your kayak should be kept in a cool place, it’s important that you keep it away from cold and frost. Continuous thawing and freezing can damage the boat, which is why storing your kayak outside during the winter can be so damaging. Bearing this in mind, you need to keep the temperature controlled.

Although storing your kayak indoors is the safest option to prevent your kayak from being stolen or becoming damaged, you will need to ensure that it isn’t inconveniencing you.

Below are a few ways to ensure that your kayak isn’t making your life more difficult.

Places To Avoid Storing Your Kayak

You will need to pick a convenient location to store your kayak when it is not in use, but there are a few places that you should avoid. These include but are not limited to:

On The Ground 

First and foremost, you will need to make sure that you don’t keep your kayak on the ground, and this is especially important if you’re planning to keep your kayak outside. 

This comes down to the fact that if you store your kayak on the hard, cold ground it could become damaged over time due to moisture exposure and cold or freezing weather conditions.

In The Way Of Frequently Used Possessions

There’s nothing less convenient than needing something you use frequently, and a huge heavy kayak being in the way. This could result in you knocking your kayak down, or causing damage or injury if you’re constantly having to reach behind the kayak to access other possessions that you need on a regular basis.

Well-Traveled Locations In Your Home

It’s important that you don’t store your kayak in well-travelled locations in your home. This means that you should avoid low ceilings or walls where you often walk, as this will inconvenience your household and could easily lead to an accident.

Accessible By Wildlife 

When it comes to keeping your kayak outside, it should always be stored in a way that isn’t accessible by wildlife. Otherwise, the variety of wildlife in your location might decide that your kayak looks like a nice and cosy home for them to settle down.

Tips When Storing Your Kayak

Always Clean Your Kayak Before Storing It

Before you store your kayak away, you will need to make sure that you thoroughly clean it. This is important after every use, but even more crucial when it comes to storing your kayak for a significant period of time. 

You should thoroughly wash the interior and exterior of your kayak. You should also make sure that you don’t leave soap residue anywhere on the hull’s surface by thoroughly rinsing the kayak. That being said, you will need to make sure that you allow your kayak to completely dry to ensure that there’s no leftover moisture that could result in mold growth whilst your kayak is in storage. 

Always Store Your Kayak Off The Ground

As I’ve already mentioned, it’s essential that you store your kayak off the ground as being exposed to the cold ground can be damaging to the structure of the boat. Bearing this in mind, you should establish which storage solution is the best for the space that you have while keeping your kayak off the ground.

Summary

Storing your kayak properly is fundamental to its lifespan. I hope after reading this article you have a better understanding of how to store your kayak.

Make sure that you consider the advice and tips mentioned above to ensure that your kayak remains in the best possible condition.

Good luck storing your kayak!