Kayaks are constructed with thin material for optimal performance on the water. Because the material is stretched so thin, warping can occur during storage. When storing a kayak, it’s important to keep in mind the three factors that can cause harm: heat, time, and stress. To safely store your kayak, make sure it is kept either at an angle or standing up. It should be covered and properly balanced. Proper storage is essential¡ªit protects your kayak from the elements and extends the boat’s life. Also, proper storage saves space, making room for even more kayaks.
Key Factors That Damage Kayaks During Storage
Sunlight
The ultraviolet rays that accompany bright sunlight can degrade just about any kayak hull material, from fiberglass to plastic to coated fabric. Continuous exposure to sunlight can fade the color and weaken the material of your kayak, especially if it’s made from polyethylene or fiberglass.
Moisture
Consistent exposure to moisture from rain and snow can cause hull materials to degrade over time. Stagnant water can harm the boat’s interior, create a place for gnats and mosquitoes to breed, and even cause mold to form.
Heat
Extreme heat can cause deformation of hull materials, so it’s important to keep your boat away from heat sources, out of rooms that get really warm, and away from direct sunlight. Storing the kayak near heaters or furnaces could cause the hull to warp and deform due to excessive heat.
Cold
Cold temperatures aren’t as big of a concern as heat, but repeated freezing and thawing can potentially damage your boat. This is especially pertinent if you have a fiberglass boat that has been repeatedly exposed to moisture during storage.
Where to Store Your Kayak
Indoor Storage
If you’re lucky enough to have a garage or shed space, then storing your kayak indoors is your safest bet. Not only would it be protected from the outdoor elements, but it will also be kept out of sight from thieves. A garage, shed, or workshop is a fantastic way to store your kayak, keeping it away from the elements, and protecting it from curious animals or even theft. Indoors is perhaps the safest option for storing a kayak. You’ll always get to keep tabs on it, even during long periods in which you go without kayaking. It’s also the best way to control the temperature and keep your kayak in an ideal condition for longer.
Outdoor Storage
Storing your kayak outdoors, long term, certainly isn’t ideal, but if you’re working with limited indoor space – and there’s no way to squeeze a kayak in – it’ll have to do. Although it is possible to store it outdoors, this should only be used as a last resort option as the extreme temperatures, elements, and UV radiation can damage your kayak far quicker than if it was stored indoors. Shaded outdoor areas are your best bet when it comes to an outdoor kayak storage space. Back porches or patios, more often than not, have protection from the sun, wind, and extreme heat.
Self-Storage Units
For owners with limited storage space or those who live in an apartment or condo, a self-storage unit can be an affordable and secure place to store these items and keep them out of your way. They’ll also be safe from extreme weather conditions and exposure to the sun that can damage them over time. For the best results, get a climate-controlled unit that manages the level of humidity and temperature levels. Kayaks will stay in the best shape when they aren’t too cold and aren’t left in humid conditions.
How to Store a Kayak Properly
Cleaning and Preparing Your Kayak
Before putting your kayak away for any length of time, ensure it’s clean and dry. A simple rinse and dry is likely enough. However, if you paddle in either saltwater or muddy water, wipe down with a mild soap and water solution. Scrub your kayak with a mild detergent and water to degrease everything. Thoroughly rinse your kayak. Open the drain plug and completely drain the water from your kayak, wiping off the excess. Place your kayak in a sunny location and let it dry completely.
- Rinse it with your hose and remove any dirt, bugs, or residue.
- Consider using an all-purpose soap and microfiber cloths to ensure cleanliness.
- Be sure to make sure everything is clean, including any nooks and crannies.
- If there are fabric portions of the seat, wash them by hand or throw them in your washing machine.
- Drain any excess water and then leave it in the sun to dry completely to prevent mold and mildew.
Positioning Your Kayak
How you store your kayak will have a big impact on how it holds up over time, and improper positioning can cause permanent damage to your boat. Here are some key points to consider:
- Store on its side or upside down: Placing your kayak on a storage rack right side up can cause dents in the bottom and cause it to warp. Placing your kayak on its side on a storage rack may create dents on the side that backs against the rack.
- Distribute weight evenly: Kayak hulls can deform or bend over time due to uneven weight distribution. When storing your boat, you need to support the weight of the boat at points along its length, using padded cradles or wide nylon straps that match the curve of the hull.
- Avoid pressure points: Whether you’re hanging your boat or putting it on a rack, don’t strap it down tightly like you would when transporting it on your car. Long-term pressure from straps can deform the body of the kayak.
- Never hang by grab loops: Hanging your kayak by its handles risks deforming it and twisting it at the ends. Use wide straps that wrap around the body of the boat instead.
Storage Solutions
There are many storage solutions available, from DIY ideas to premium racks costing hundreds of dollars and everything in between. There’s no one best storage method, only what works for your location, convenience, and budget. Here are the most common options:
- Wall-Mounted Racks: A wall-mounted kayak rack is a fantastic option for storing your kayak inside and off the ground. It allows you to keep a couple of kayaks stacked horizontally and at a slight angle, giving the storage area a well-organized vibe.
- Freestanding Racks: If you’re setting up a freestanding kayak rack system, be it inside or outside, the first thing you should do is ensure that you have the floor space for it. These things are anything but compact, especially when they’re designed to hold multiple kayaks at a time.
- Suspension Systems: Hanging your boat from the ceiling is a good way to get it up and out of the way. You can purchase a suspension system designed just for a kayak or you can make your own using wide webbing straps. To best protect the hull, hang your boat so that the hull faces up toward the ceiling.
- Pulley Systems: A kayak pulley system utilizes straps and pulleys mounted to a ceiling, allowing boaters to easily hoist their kayaks vertically near their desired space, freeing up valuable garage or shed space to be used for other purposes.
- Vertical Storage: Storing a kayak vertically is a relatively simple and quick way to free up floor space, and in a safe and secure location where you can regulate the temperature. Most kayak user manuals indicate that it is safe to store a kayak vertically on its stern.
Comparison of Kayak Storage Options
| Storage Type | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wall-Mounted Racks | Saves floor space, organizes multiple kayaks, secure | Requires wall installation, takes up wall space | Garages, sheds with limited floor space |
| Freestanding Racks | Portable, no installation needed, holds multiple kayaks | Takes up floor space, less secure outdoors | Large garages, outdoor shaded areas |
| Suspension Systems | Maximizes floor space, protects hull when hung correctly | Requires ceiling installation, challenging to hoist alone | Garages with high ceilings |
| Pulley Systems | Easy to raise/lower, saves floor space | Complex installation, may need professional help | Garages, sheds with ceiling access |
| Vertical Storage | Frees up floor space, good for multiple kayaks | Requires high ceilings, less secure outdoors | Indoor spaces with high ceilings, short-term outdoor use |
Protecting Your Kayak During Storage
Using Covers
We recommend a storage cover for your kayak. It doesn’t matter if you’re storing it inside or outside, a kayak cover is helpful regardless of where it’s being stored. A weatherproof cover is a good solution to keep your kayak in the shade. The waterproof and ultra-resistant Pelican cover can be used. If you want to keep your kayak inside, keep it away from any windows or loosely cover it with a tarp. Tarps should be hung over the kayak to encourage airflow and not kept directly on top of them.
UV Protection
Use a UV protectant spray: A good sun-protective spray can work wonders. Apply it regularly and follow the manufacturer directions for the best results. Try to use reflective material to cover the kayak to help reflect the sun away from the kayak instead of drawing it in. This can help to reduce not just the UV risk to the kayak but it can also help to minimize heating of the surface, which can often be just as damaging.
Preventing Pests
Insects, spiders, snakes, rodents, and other small animals are known to make homes in kayak cockpits. Fit your cockpit with a cover to keep visitors out but be sure the cockpit is dry before covering it to avoid mold and mildew. Rodents can also chew through it and nest inside it. Even though you can get rid of bugs and rodents, they may create irreparable damage to your kayak.
Securing Against Theft
Leaving your kayak unlocked makes it easy prey for thieves. Invest in adequate locks to protect your investment and your hobby. If it’s outside, keep it hidden and locked or chained to something secure. A good kayak is an expensive investment. Leaving it outside, where it is visible, can increase the risk of theft.
Best Practices for Long-Term Storage
When we talk about winter storage or storing for more than a couple of weeks, that’s when long-term tips come into play. It needs a bit more care:
- Opt for a cool, dry place, such as indoors or an off-site storage facility.
- Store it on its side or upside down to prevent hull distortion.
- Ensure it’s clean and dry to keep pesky critters at bay.
- Want to use a kayak wax or UV protectant to keep it looking shiny and new? Now is the time to put it on! (Before choosing a wax, make sure it is safe for your kayak’s materials. There are different waxes for different types of materials.)
Best Products for Kayak Storage
Here are some top-rated products to help you store your kayak safely and efficiently:
- RAD Sportz Wall Hanger Pro: A single-kayak wall-mounted rack with a 125-pound load capacity, padded arms, and nylon safety straps for added security. Shop on Amazon
- StoreYourBoard Ceiling Rack: A compact and robust ceiling rack that has a two-kayak, 150-pound weight capacity, and padded, height-adjustable frame. Shop on Amazon
- COR Kayak Sling: Durable, adjustable nylon straps ideal for suspension systems, designed to prevent pressure points. Shop on Amazon
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I store my kayak on the ground?
No, storing a kayak directly on the ground is not recommended. It can lead to hull deformation due to uneven weight distribution and expose the kayak to moisture, dirt, and pests. Always use a rack, suspension system, or vertical storage to keep it off the ground.
Is it safe to store a kayak vertically for long periods?
Vertical storage is safe for short-term use, especially if the kayak is supported properly on its stern with padded material to avoid pressure points. For long-term storage, horizontal storage on a rack or suspension system is preferred to prevent potential hull damage.
How often should I clean my kayak before storage?
Clean your kayak thoroughly after every use, especially if it’s been in saltwater or muddy water. Before long-term storage, scrub it with mild soap, rinse, and ensure it’s completely dry to prevent mold and mildew.
Do I need a climate-controlled storage unit for my kayak?
A climate-controlled unit is ideal for long-term storage, as it protects against extreme temperatures and humidity, which can damage hull materials. However, a well-ventilated garage or shed with proper covers can also work if a storage unit isn’t feasible.
What’s the best way to protect my kayak from UV damage?
Store your kayak indoors or in a shaded area. If outdoor storage is necessary, use a UV-resistant cover or tarp and apply a UV protectant spray regularly to minimize damage from sunlight.
Conclusion
Proper kayak storage is crucial for extending the life of your vessel and ensuring it’s ready for your next adventure. By choosing the right storage location, using appropriate racks or suspension systems, and protecting against sunlight, moisture, and pests, you can keep your kayak in top condition for years to come. Whether you opt for indoor storage in a garage, outdoor storage under a tarp, or a climate-controlled self-storage unit, following these guidelines will help you store your kayak safely and efficiently.
For more tips on kayak maintenance, check out REI’s Expert Advice or Paddling Magazine’s Storage Guide.