How To Store Your Kayak Outside

Kayaks are watercraft propelled by paddles and used in that fun sport that allows you to relax while doing a physical exercise called kayaking. As the sport increases in popularity, more and more people desire to own and eventually own their own kayaks. 

The joy of possessing a kayak however comes with responsibilities one of which is storing the kayak. Kayaks should be stored in a cool dry place when not in use so they are safe and protected from the elements when not in use. 

They should also if possible be stored suspended above the floor to prevent moisture from destroying them. Sadly, kayaks can be a nuisance when not in use as they are not easy to store since they take up a lot of space because of their shape and size. 

A solution to this problem we are going to look into is storing your kayak outside.

Should I Store My Kayak Outside?

When you think of storing your kayak, what comes to mind? Most people think about putting it in a garage, basement, or attic. But should you store your kayak outside? Storage is a common problem for kayakers. 

Many people store their kayaks indoors, but this can be a problem because of space, moisture, and the cold. Kayaks stored inside can also be damaged by pests and water damage. 

Kayaks stored outside might be exposed to the elements if their shelters are not properly built, but they are also less likely to be damaged. Here are 10 reasons why you should consider storing your kayak outdoors:

1. The kayak will be protected from the elements. All kayak storage spaces are shielded from the elements if the owner or storer of the watercraft wants to maintain the kayak and outside storage spaces are no exception. They protect your watercraft from weather conditions while allowing you more indoor space for other things.
2. It will be protected from theft. Cleverly picking your outdoor storage space in such a way it is not obvious and then securely storing your kayak there helps keep it safe from covetous eyes. They can’t steal a kayak whose location they are oblivious to.
3. It will preserve its value. By storing your kayak outside and above ground, you protect it from depreciating factors like pests, moisture, and other weather conditions thus preserving its value.
4. It is easier to keep an eye on the kayak. You can stealthily check on your kayak periodically without anyone knowing what you are doing. It could be while leaving your house or taking a leisure stroll in the yard. That way it is easy to check on the kayak while performing other tasks.
5. The environment is less cluttered. Storing your kayak outside means you have to ensure the environment is tidy even if you weren’t into it before. This is because the less tidy your environment is, the more likely it is to become a habitat for pests who could then gain access to and damage your kayak.
6. The weather is more predictable. In indoor kayak storage, unless you periodically check on the watercraft you most likely won’t be aware when damaging factors like moisture and pests set it. The reverse is the case with outdoor storage where weather forecasts give you the probable weather conditions and you can judge if the shelter you built is strong enough to handle the challenge or if you should move the kayak. This predictability of weather conditions gives you a certain assurance of the safety of your vessel at all times.
7. It saves indoor space. Kayaks are bulky and take up a lot of space in comparison to other things stored at home and everyone doesn’t have enough space to even store the kayak suspended in their home. Storing the kayak outside is a double win as it not only ensures the watercraft is protected, it also allows you to save indoor space letting your home look tidier and spacious.
8. The kayak is readily available for use since it is stored outside. This is a great advantage especially when kayaks are in season. You simply get your gear, go to the storage space, and bring the watercraft out for your next kayaking adventure.
9. It saves you the hassle of always carrying the kayak indoors. Storing your kayak indoors means you have to take the kayak inside after each adventure or risk exposing the watercraft to the elements. This can get tiring particularly in the kayaking season if you plan on kayaking most of the day almost every day. Storing your kayak outside eliminates the need for this stress making the vessel easily available to you while it stays safe when not in use.
10. It saves you a lot of money on storage costs. Storing your kayak outside is a great way to make use of the space in your yard. All you need to do is erect a shelter and you’re good to go. While this might cost you some money, you will notice that it costs considerably less than storing your kayak in a warehouse or other such storage facilities for safekeeping. Apart from cutting down the storage cost, it also ensures your kayak is nearby and readily available for use at a moment’s notice with no need to leave your house.

Types Of Storage Sheds

Building your own storage shed for storing your kayak outside can be a great way to keep your kayak safe from the weather and thieves.

There are a variety of different types of storage sheds that can accommodate kayaks. A basic shed can typically be built for around $500, while more elaborate sheds can cost upwards of $10,000. 

The size of the shed, as well as the type of roof and walls, will determine the price.
Some people prefer to store their kayaks outside on a covered porch or deck. Others build enclosed sheds in their backyard or yard. 

The most popular type of storage shed is the portable storage shed. Portable storage sheds are typically easy to assemble and disassemble, making them perfect for small yards or plots of land.

They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are usually equipped with a door that opens from the front or the side. These sheds can be moved around easily, so they’re perfect if you want to use them at different locations.

You should therefore do research and choose the shed type that suits your kayak and the climate best while being within the range you can afford.

Choosing The Right Location

Once you’ve made up your mind to store your kayak outside, it’s time to get down to business. You have to set up a shelter to protect the kayak and the first step towards accomplishing that goal is to choose a suitable location in your yard. 

If you’re considering storing your kayak outside, there are a few things to consider. They are:

1. The area should be free from moisture. Even though kayaks are watercraft that spend most of their time in water, moisture is one of their natural enemies in storage. A kayak exposed to moisture is at risk of being infested with mold and fungus that compromise the structural integrity of the watercraft damaging it as time goes by.
2. The climate: Make sure the area you’re choosing can handle the weather conditions your kayak may experience. The area should also offer adequate protection from the elements. That is it should shield your kayak from the rain, snow, sun (ultraviolet rays), wind, and other weather conditions. If the storage area cannot provide such protection you will be exposing your kayak to the wrath of the elements and dooming it to a short lifespan. A good way to ensure such protection is provided especially from water and the sun’s ultraviolet rays is to make use of tarpaulin or other such waterproof materials to protect the kayak from the elements.
3. The storage space should be strategically hidden. The fact that kayaking is loved by many is no use and as such kayaks are prized commodities. Many a kayaker wishes to own his kayak and if care is not taken, your kayak will soon be someone else’s. Your kayak storage location should not be obvious as this will help deter potential thieves. Even then you should make sure the kayak is locked while in storage to make it difficult for persistent kayak hunters to acquire your kayak. While this does not guarantee the complete safety of your watercraft, it significantly increases it.
4. There should be enough space. To properly store the vessel, you should ensure your storage location has enough space to properly store your kayak and if possible your kayaking gear. If you can safely store them all in one place, it will make it easier for you to access them whenever you desire to use them.
5. There should be an elevation of sorts. Depending on the location you choose and the structure you decide to erect, you might already have an elevated platform for storing your watercraft. If not you can get a kayak rack or other means to help you store the kayak above the ground. Doing this will offer the kayak solid protection from moisture or water that could otherwise be on the floor of the storage area. It will also offer some measure of protection from pests that may decide to make your kayak their home.

Building Your Own Storage Shed

The Kayak Garage is a great way to store your kayak outside, but many people don’t have the space for a garage. 

If you’re one of these people, you can build your own storage shed even if you have a small backyard or limited space using some simple steps. Here are the steps:

• Buy or build a frame that’s at least four feet wide and eight feet long. Make sure the frame is strong enough to support the weight of the kayaks. Most people use a couple of 2x4s for the frame.
• Add some kind of material to the frame to prevent rot, such as siding.
• Add some type of skirting, such as treated wood or metal, around the entire outside of the shed. The skirting is used to prevent rot and for drainage. The roof should be about five feet high.
• Add a door that is at least six inches thick, but more so if you want to be able to lock the shed.

The above is a guide to building a kayak shed but is not the only way to go about it. You can use whichever approach to erect a shelter suitable for the kayak that you can afford and will provide security both from thieves and nature to the kayak. 

You could even make use of a storage rack or wall mount or some construction you came up with on your own if you are handy with stuff; whatever makes you happy.

Securing Your Kayak

If you own a kayak, securing it in the storage shed is important to keep it out of the elements and away from thieves. After ensuring the kayak is clean and dry you can proceed to store it in the shelter you provided. Here are some tips on how to safely store your kayak:  

1. Make sure the kayak is secured to sturdy support using stakes, straps, and ropes so it doesn’t move around and make noise. The kayak should be stable even in storage.
2. Use a locking system, such as a cable lock or padlock, to make sure the door is secure.
3. Use a kayak cover to prevent the kayak from getting dirty.
4. If possible, leave the seat in the kayak when it’s not in use to keep it safe and dry.
5. Use a kayak lock so no one can steal it or move it around without your permission.
6. Store the kayak in a location where it can’t be easily accessed by children or animals. Children can easily damage your kayak and animals, particularly in winter can turn your kayak into a home dirting and eventually damage it.
7. To prevent unauthorized use, remove all paddles, life jackets, and other removable gear from inside the watercraft before securing it. This will quickly discourage anyone who desires to make use of the watercraft in your absence.
8. Keep the keys to your kayak and shed combination in a safe place. It is a good idea to not broadcast this location to prevent unfortunate circumstances. 
9. Store the kayak in a well-ventilated area. The storage area should be a cool and dry place.
10. Make sure the kayak is stored above ground. This will protect it from moisture dirt and grime.
11. Make sure you store the kayak in the correct position. Plastic kayaks should be stored on their sides while composite kayaks can be stored on their sides or upside down. Storing the kayak in the appropriate position is crucial if you want to maintain it in good shape. If you are unsure of which position is correct for storing your kayak, you can inquire from the manufacturers or surf the net for it.

Maintenance and Protection

After successfully building your storage shed and securing the kayak, you have to ensure it stays safe. This implies periodic checks on the watercraft to ensure it is in good shape and not deteriorating.

Any sign of decay should be repaired immediately if you desire to use the kayak for years to come. The storage shed should be cleaned regularly and also checked to ensure it is providing sufficient protection from the elements. 

Periodic checks also serve to make sure kayak hunters don’t acquire your watercraft. Check the locks used to make sure they are still in good shape and if you can afford it, a security system in the shed is a good idea to ensure the safety of your kayak.

Kayakers many a time are faced with the problem of where to store their kayaks as the watercraft can be bulky and take up a lot of space. 

Storage facilities to help you store your kayak address this problem but they cost money and not all kayak owners can afford them. A good solution to this problem is storing the kayak outside. 

Storing your kayak outside is a viable option as long as you take some precautions which include making sure your chosen location is hidden from plain sight to protect the watercraft from thieves, making sure it has an elevated platform for the kayak to protect it from moisture and dirt, and that the place is protected from the elements for the kayak’s safety. 

You should then make sure to clean and dry your kayak before storing it and invest in a good kayak cover to protect it from the elements. If you live in a particularly windy area, try to find a sheltered spot to store your kayak, or consider investing in a storage rack. 

You should also keep an eye on the kayak to ensure it is safe and in good condition. Properly storing your kayak outside saves you space and money and ensures the watercraft is always ready for use. Thanks for reading!