As you finish up your adventures on the water or are the proud owner of a new kayak, you may be left wondering how to store a kayak properly. Store your kayak properly, and you’ll prevent damage, warping, fading and a host of other issues that the elements can cause. While the elements can damage your kayak, the way you store it can, too. Read on to learn how to store a kayak to ensure that you can enjoy your kayak for many seasons to come.
PREPARING YOUR KAYAK FOR STORAGE
After a season out on the water, your kayak will likely have its fair share of dirt and grime that should be cleaned off before putting it into storage. Preparing your kayak for storage can be completed in five easy steps as follows:
- Scrub your kayak with a mild detergent, water, and plenty of elbow grease.
- Thoroughly rinse off the kayak.
- Open the drainage plug and empty all water from your boat, wiping any excess.
- Place your kayak in a sunny location and allow the boat to dry completely.
Now you’re ready to learn how to store a kayak!
WHERE TO STORE YOUR KAYAK
HOW TO STORE A KAYAK INDOORS
If you have the room to do so, keeping your kayak indoors, whether that’s in your home, garage or shed, is the preferred option because of the protection it offers from the elements. This ensures that it will remain dry and protected from harsh and inclement weather. Direct sunlight, moisture and both extreme heat and extreme cold can compromise the integrity of your kayak. Storing your boat away from windows, or better yet covered, and in a temperate environment offer an added layer of protection.
You will want to keep your kayak elevated off the ground as well as it not only saves space but also further protects it from damage. You can accomplish this with either a specialized kayak hoist or alternatively a kayak rack. Pelican’s wall mount for kayaks is equipped with a swivel system that allows the bracket to be folded back onto the wall. This way, the wall rack won't be in your way when not in use. The solid steel structure features rubber padding to protect your kayak during storage. A powder coating finish gives you the option to either install this rack either indoors or outdoors. Pelican’s wall mount is also equipped with additional arms that allow you to conveniently store your paddles underneath your kayak.
Pelican also has a handy kit designed for kayaks and paddleboards that allows you to easily hang your boats up and out of the way and off the ground. Added velcro loops securely hold your paddles too! The kit contains 2 modular systems that can be used for 1 or 2 watercrafts.
HOW TO STORE A KAYAK OUTDOORS
For many, especially those who live in smaller dwellings like an apartment or a condo, indoor storage just isn’t feasible. So, outdoors it is. As you search for the right outdoor spot, you will want to make sure that this spot is shaded and that you can protect your kayak from moisture. A shaded spot will protect your kayak from both the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays and heat. A weather-resistant tarp is a great option to ensure your kayak remains shaded, but you will want to suspend the tarp away from the kayak as direct contact can promote the development of mold and fungal growth. Other options regarding how to store a kayak for long-term outdoor storage include placing your kayak under a deck, roof, or covered porch.
You don’t want to keep your kayak in the water either during the season, so storing kayaks outdoors on mounting racks is practical during the summer and gives you quicker access to your boat compared to indoor storage options. To further shield your kayak from the elements, opt for Pelican’s Catch kayak cover! Designed to wrap around your boat easily, it provides complete protection thanks to a system of straps and hooks that can be used to find perfect adjustment. Thanks to its heavy-duty waterproof construction, this cover will keep your kayak in top condition between trips.
HOW TO STORE A KAYAK: WHAT NOT TO DO
The way you position your kayak for storage is critical, poor storage can cause irreparable damage. You’ll thus want to avoid doing the following:
- Prolonged storage with tight straps creates pressure points that can deform your kayak.
- Placing your kayak on storage bars right-side-up can create dents on the bottom and deform the boat.
- Placing your kayak on its side on storage bars you risk denting the side that’s laying on the bars.
- Hanging your kayak by the handles may deform and bend it at the ends.