How to Store Your Kayak for Winter: A Step-by-Step Guide

Kayak Storage How to Keep Your Boat Safe and Secure

Kayaking is a great way to get out on the water and enjoy the fresh air. But when you’re not paddling, it’s important to store your kayak properly so that it stays in good condition.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the best ways to store your kayak, whether you live in a small apartment or have a large garage. We’ll also provide tips on how to protect your kayak from the elements and pests.

So whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or just getting started, read on for all the information you need to know about kayak storage!

So How To Store A Kayak?

How to Store a Kayak:

Drain water from the kayak.
Stand the kayak upside down on a support.
Cover the kayak with a tarp or protective cover.
Store the kayak in a cool, dry place.

How to Store a Kayak

Outdoor Storage

If you have the space, storing your kayak outdoors is the best option. It allows your kayak to air out and dry completely after each use, which helps to prevent mildew and mold growth.

To store your kayak outdoors, you will need a sturdy, weather-resistant cover. The cover should be large enough to completely cover your kayak, and it should be made of a material that is resistant to UV rays, water, and mildew.

When storing your kayak outdoors, it is important to keep it out of direct sunlight. The sun’s UV rays can damage the hull of your kayak, and they can also cause the straps on your kayak to become brittle and break.

It is also important to keep your kayak off the ground. If you place your kayak directly on the ground, it will be exposed to moisture and dirt, which can both damage the hull of your kayak.

If you do not have a covered area to store your kayak, you can build a simple storage rack. A storage rack will help to keep your kayak off the ground and out of direct sunlight.

Indoor Storage

If you do not have the space to store your kayak outdoors, you can store it indoors. However, storing your kayak indoors can be more challenging, as you need to make sure that your kayak is properly protected from the elements.

To store your kayak indoors, you will need a dry, well-ventilated space. The space should be large enough to accommodate your kayak, and it should be free of any moisture or pests.

You will also need a sturdy, weather-resistant cover to protect your kayak from dust, dirt, and other debris. The cover should be large enough to completely cover your kayak, and it should be made of a material that is resistant to UV rays.

When storing your kayak indoors, it is important to keep it away from heat sources. Heat can damage the hull of your kayak, and it can also cause the straps on your kayak to become brittle and break.

It is also important to keep your kayak away from moisture. Moisture can cause the hull of your kayak to rust, and it can also promote the growth of mold and mildew.

If you do not have a dry, well-ventilated space to store your kayak, you can purchase a dehumidifier to help keep the air in the space dry.

Tips for Storing a Kayak

Here are some tips for storing a kayak:

Clean your kayak thoroughly before storing it. This will help to remove any dirt, salt, or other debris that could damage the hull of your kayak.
Dry your kayak completely before storing it. Moisture can cause the hull of your kayak to rust, and it can also promote the growth of mold and mildew.
Store your kayak in a cool, dry place. Heat and moisture can damage the hull of your kayak, and they can also cause the straps on your kayak to become brittle and break.
Use a sturdy, weather-resistant cover to protect your kayak from the elements. The cover should be large enough to completely cover your kayak, and it should be made of a material that is resistant to UV rays, water, and mildew.
Keep your kayak away from heat sources. Heat can damage the hull of your kayak, and it can also cause the straps on your kayak to become brittle and break.
Keep your kayak away from moisture. Moisture can cause the hull of your kayak to rust, and it can also promote the growth of mold and mildew.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your kayak in good condition for years to come.

Also Read THIS: How To Strap Kayak To Roof Rack

FAQs on How to Store a Kayak

What is the best way to store a kayak?

There are a few different ways to store a kayak, but the best way for you will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. Some of the most common methods include:

Inside: If you have the space, storing your kayak inside is the best way to protect it from the elements. You can either store it in a dedicated kayak storage rack or simply lean it against a wall in a spare room or garage.

Outside: If you don’t have the space to store your kayak inside, you can also store it outside. However, it’s important to take steps to protect it from the sun, rain, and snow. You can do this by covering it with a tarp or by storing it in a shed or carport.

On the water: If you live near a body of water, you can also store your kayak on the water. This is a great option if you want to be able to access your kayak quickly and easily. However, it’s important to make sure that your kayak is properly secured to the dock or boathouse.

How long can a kayak be stored without being used?

Kayaks can be stored for long periods of time without being used, but it’s important to take steps to protect them from the elements. If you’re storing your kayak outside, it’s important to cover it with a tarp or to store it in a shed or carport. If you’re storing your kayak inside, it’s important to make sure that it’s in a cool, dry place.

What should I do to prepare my kayak for storage?

Before you store your kayak, there are a few things you should do to prepare it. These include:

Clean your kayak: This will help to remove any dirt, grime, or salt that could damage the kayak.

Drain your kayak: Make sure to drain all of the water from your kayak before storing it. This will help to prevent mold and mildew from growing.

Inspect your kayak: Look for any damage to the kayak, such as cracks or leaks. If you find any damage, repair it before storing the kayak.

Lubricate your kayak: Lubricate the moving parts of your kayak, such as the bearings and o-rings. This will help to keep them in good condition.

How do I winterize my kayak?

If you’re storing your kayak for the winter, there are a few additional steps you can take to winterize it. These include:

Drain your kayak: Make sure to drain all of the water from your kayak before storing it. This will help to prevent the water from freezing and expanding, which could damage the kayak.

Apply a protectant: Apply a protectant to the outside of your kayak to help protect it from the elements.

Store your kayak in a cool, dry place: Store your kayak in a cool, dry place, such as a garage or shed.

What are the signs that my kayak is not stored properly?

If your kayak is not stored properly, there are a few signs you might notice. These include:

Cracks or leaks: If your kayak has cracks or leaks, it’s a sign that it’s not being stored properly.

Mold or mildew: If you see mold or mildew growing on your kayak, it’s a sign that it’s not being stored in a dry place.

Rust: If you see rust on your kayak, it’s a sign that it’s not being stored in a cool, dry place.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take steps to correct the problem and to store your kayak properly.