Whether you plan on storing your kayak outside or inside, the process can be a bit of a challenge. It is important to protect your kayak from the elements and make sure it is stored in a place that is shaded and out of direct sunlight. To properly store your kayak, make sure to lock it and distribute its weight evenly. Tie down straps should not be too tight and should be evenly spaced.
Tie-down straps should not be too tight
When securing your kayak, do not over-tighten the tie-down straps. The straps should be just loose enough to be securely fastened without causing any damage. If they are too tight, they may even damage your kayak. Tie-down straps are also a great way to protect your kayak from the elements. To store your kayak safely outside, make sure you follow these steps:
When securing your kayak for storage outside, always tie it down at the bow and stern. You can do this with rope or cam straps. If you do not have a trucker’s hitch, you can use two tie-down straps. Or, you can use a rope and tie it to the bumper. But make sure it is not too tight, or else it might bend the length of your kayak.
If storing your kayak outdoors, be sure to store it in a climate-controlled area. Frequent thawing and freezing can cause damage to your kayak. Store it in an area that is warmer than 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Never store your kayak outside if the temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. It may also cause mold and mildew to develop, and it may also affect the color of your kayak.
Wall-mounted cradles
If you are looking for a durable way to store your kayak outdoors, one great option is to use wall-mounted cradles. These cradles are designed for large kayaks, and are made from solid steel to support up to 200 pounds. While they don’t have a lot of features, they do provide ample space and keep your kayaks in excellent condition. If you have a large kayak, you should consider a wall-mounted cradle, like the Seattle Sports Kayak Wall Cradle.
When using a kayak wall-mounted cradle, make sure that the size is right. You should choose a cradle that is approximately 40 percent the length of your kayak. Once you have determined the size, install the cradle using the same measurements as your first one. One of the best options is the Suspenz Deluxe. Its easy-to-load pivot arm and suspension straps will help you store your kayak safely and securely.
Vertical storage
When you’re not using your kayak, you can keep it stored vertically on one end of the rack. Just be sure not to store it longer than a day or two. If you do, you could damage its body. When it’s stored vertically, the weight of the kayak puts pressure on the end of the rack. This can cause dents and damage to the hull. To prevent this, rotate the kayak so that one end is on the floor and the other is on the wall.
If you’re storing more than one kayak, you can buy a rack that can hold all of them. Many kayak racks include a boat dolly, which allows you to lift and move your vertical kayak. This rack is great for garage storage, too! Some kayak racks even come with wheels for easy mobility. When buying a rack, make sure to choose one with wheels. This way, you won’t have to worry about slipping your kayak.
Protecting your kayak from the elements
Before you store your kayak outside, be sure to wash it thoroughly to remove sand, algae, and other debris from the hull. Use a mild soap and water mix to wash the entire boat, including the footbraces. Once the boat is clean, allow it to dry and air out before storing it. If your kayak is inflatable or foldable, allow it to dry completely before storing it.
If you are storing your kayak outdoors, you need to protect it from rain, sun, and other elements that can damage its hull. It’s best to store it somewhere that doesn’t have direct sunlight, as that will expose the hull to mold and fungi. Alternatively, you can place your kayak in an interior closet, where it’ll get maximum protection from the elements. But keep in mind that storing it near windows will cause condensation, which will eventually damage the boat.