How To Store A Kayak In An Apartment – Smart Hacks You Never Knew!

Eliminate the clutter and learn how to store a kayak in an apartment properly.

Your kayak is an expensive investment. This is why it only makes perfect sense that you keep it in good condition longer.

Unfortunately, not many kayak owners are aware of the proper way to care for their boats. This is why it can develop damages over time.

But you can definitely avoid all of these with the right storage techniques. Keep reading to discover these very easy steps on how to keep your kayak in great condition while in storage in your very own apartment. Let’s get started!

The Basics on How to Store a Kayak in an Apartment

Kayaks, whether single or two-person, are bulky vehicles.

If you have a large space at home, storage should not even be an issue.

But what if there’s limited space in your tiny apartment? How can you possibly keep your kayak neat and tidy if this is the case?

The good news is that there are hacks you can do to make sure your kayak is in a good position. It is all about implementing proper storage techniques that will prevent damages to your precious kayak.

Even without a vast space in your apartment, it is absolutely possible to keep your kayak inside. Always remember that indoors is the best place to keep your boat. Otherwise, it may be prone to cracks and splits due to the extreme heat of the sun and the changing weather.

Smart Hacks on How to Store a Kayak in an Apartment

Storing a kayak largely depends on the type of boat you have.

When it comes to a folding or an inflatable kayak, it should be an effortless ordeal.

Since this type of kayak is foldable, you can simply roll it up loosely after use. Then, stash your boat in a dry and cool place. This is all you need to do to make sure it stays in a good condition longer.

However, it can be a bit more challenging when it comes with a hard-shell, traditional kayak.

This type of boat is heavier and bigger. With the bulky quality of the boat, it can be a bit tricky to figure out a way to keep it in your apartment.

But one thing is certain – this is absolutely possible to do.

As long as you place your kayak in an area that is not exposed to extreme temperatures, moisture, and sunlight, it should be all good, then.

Sunlight causes kayaks to degrade quickly. Whether it is made of fiberglass or plastic, the hull material will deteriorate over time due to sunlight.

Moisture and heat do the same thing, which is why you need to make sure your storage space is away from heat and dry.

Now, let us talk about these simple steps on how to store a kayak in an apartment.

1. Find a secure and shaded space.

The first thing to remember when finding a storage place for your kayak is to choose a shaded area.

Indoor storage is best whether it is your shed or garage. These are fine options to consider since your boat is protected from harsh elements.

Make sure there is protection from moisture, as well.

Thus, it is not advisable to store the kayak on the ground. This is not ideal because it can result in the boat’s further exposure to moisture. Furthermore, the hull may undergo deformation over time. This is why it is important to find an elevated area for you to place your kayak.

2. Use a suspension system.

I highly recommend that you use a rack to store your kayak. You can either purchase one or make it yourself. This is a great way to keep the boat right off the ground.

Additionally, you want to be sure that the rack does not scratch up the bottom portion of the boat. The best way to do this is to make sure that the rack supports the side of the boat. Alternatively, it should enable you to position your kayak upside down or the hull-side facing up.

If you would rather suspend your boat right from your ceiling, this is even better. It is a practical way to get the kayak free from other obstructions while making sure you have more floor space in your apartment.

There are suspension systems available for kayaks. Or, if you prefer to do it yourself, you should be able to turn this into a weekend project. There are straps with a wide webbing design that should function well for hanging the kayak from your ceiling.

However, be sure not to hang your boat by its grab loops. This can cause the boat to bend and become deformed. The side straps should be able to support the boat’s body.

3. Upgrade to a Portable Kayak

A great way to avoid having to build and install a kayak storage system, such as a pulley system or hanging rack, is to simply upgrade your kayak to a state-of-the-art portable kayak. With new innovations coming about every year, these portable kayaks are becoming more and more affordable and easier to store.

While a typical kayak is a hard shape and takes up the same amount of space in storage as its full size, an easy to store kayak that is collapsable can easily stow away in a closet or under a staircase. This frees up otherwise occupied space and removes the need for any type of hanging gear.

These styles of kayak also allow for extremely easy transport to and from an apartment, considering they will easily fit in an elevator and squeeze into the back of a generic family SUV. This allows the owner to save time and the headache of moving a full-size kayak in and out of a likely hard-to-access apartment.

Read More: Practical Guide on How To Read A River For Kayaking

Check out these kayak storage tips that can help you take good care of your boat and prolong its lifespan.

Additional Tips on How to Store a Kayak in an Apartment

Before you store your kayak, make sure that you rinse it well with fresh water. This will help to get rid of any grime, salt, and sand on it.

Make it a point to distribute your boat’s weight evenly as you hang it on the rack. An uneven weight to bend or deform the hull.

Last but not least, always keep it away from the sun and moisture. These are harmful elements to your boat, which can jeopardize its build and performance. You need to always keep the storage space dry and cool and perform proper techniques when you take your boat out.

By following these tips on how to store kayak in an apartment, you can ensure the quality of your kayak and make sure it remains in good shape for years to come!

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