Kayak Storage

[kenuloza]

How do you guys store your Kayak over the winter? Is it safe to keep yak on the garage floor?

[OVER THE RAIL]

I use two straps and hang them on their side. Keeps them out of the way. Sit-in has cockpit cover. I pull the plug on the SOTs.

Try to keep them out of the sun. They will fade. A loose tarp is OK, for outside. Empty snakes and mice in springtime. :)

[Eric G]

Most kayaks can be stored long term on its side - read your owners manual to be sure.

Wilderness Systems wants it on its side, while the Hobie Outback upside down, go firgure.

Most storage cradles and straps hang the kayak from two points on it's side. My Pungo specifcally states NOT to store overhead supported by two straps cockpit up.

I would not store on its bottom long tern in the garage, lose it's "rocker" shape to the hull (but this is more prevelant in summertime heat).

[kenuloza]

Thanks guys
I have to look at the manual and read what is suggested. I was thinking about puting it up on two saw horses with some foam padding. I dont have anywhere to hang it, and need to keep it in the garage.

[JoshKaptur]

If you're really paranoid, get a couple bean bag chairs for supports.

[CAPTKIRK]

Thanks guys
I have to look at the manual and read what is suggested. I was thinking about puting it up on two saw horses with some foam padding. I dont have anywhere to hang it, and need to keep it in the garage.

I made a couple of "L" brackets out of 1x3's, screwed them to the wall studs about 5ft. off floor and place the kayaks on their sides on these (two per yak about 6 to 8' apart). Also put some foam insulation on the wood to both pad and prevent slipping. Takes up little room and keeps the yaks out of the way. The brackets actually consisted of one piece approx. 16" perpindicular to wall and a angle gusset piece below back to that same stud for strength.

[barrell]

eric g mde some good points but you always risk altering the rocker when suporting a yak. The suport should be 1/3 back from the nose and tail. Never ahng from the front and back handles. This will either increse the rocker (bannana curve) or give it a reverse rocker which basicaly ruins it.
The wider the support the better. nEver suport it on the bottom of the hull. You will end up with dents. always upside down or sideways. Anyplace a hard or sharp thing is pressing aginst the hull may develop a big dent. What do I do after 20 years of yak fishing? I just leave it laying in my yard ,upside down covered with ice and snow. I dont have time to be anal about the dents in my yak.