How to Make Kayak Storage

Kayaks are used for paddling on streams, rivers, lakes and the ocean. Designed for one or two people, kayaks are manufactured from a variety of materials including plastic and wood. Kayaks need to be stored in a position which prevents contact with the ground and will provide protection from other objects which might damage the hull. Storage racks are available commercially, but with a few materials and tools it is possible to build a rack.

Things You'll Need

• 2-by-4-inch lumber (four 6-foot pieces and four 2-foot pieces)
• Saw
• Wood screws
• Drill (with bit and driver)

Instructions

1. Cut four lengths of 2-by-4-inch lumber to 6 feet in length. Cut four lengths of 2-by-4 lumber to 2 feet in length. Use a hand saw or have the 2-by-4s cut to length at the time of purchase.

2. Lay one 6-foot length of 2-by-4 on the ground so that the wide side is facing up. Position a 2-foot section of 2-by-4 at one end so that an L shape is formed at a 90-degree angle. The 2-foot section should be on top of the 6-foot length so that the side and ends of the two pieces are flush.

3. Secure the L shape with three wood screws. Drill the holes using a bit which is smaller than the diameter of the wood screws. Insert the wood screws using a drill and repeat the process so that two 6-foot sections are assembled with a short L at one end. These will form the upright supports of the rack.

4. Position the upright supports on the ground about 6 feet apart with the 2-foot section extending upward. Place a 6-foot length of 2-by-4 at the top or end without the L shape. Make sure the 6-foot cap overlaps the ends of the upright support pieces. Secure the pieces together by drilling pilot holes and securing with wood screws.

5. Attach another 6-foot 2-by-4 half-way down the upright for a cross support. Make sure the ends of the cross support are at the same location on both sides and attach with wood screws. Also make sure the rack is square or not crooked at this point.

6. Attach a 2-foot length of 2-by-4 at the point where the 6-foot cross piece is attached. This will form a rest for the kayak. Install the 2-foot length on the outer side of the rack by securing with wood screws through the upright support and the end of the 6-foot cross piece.

7. Position the rack flush against a cleared wall so that the bottom L shape is facing forward and prevents the rack from falling forward. Place the kayak on the kayak rests.

Tips & Warnings

• When complete, the rack should be positioned against the wall with the two lower rack supports and two middle kayak supports extending forward.

• Use caution to avoid injury while sawing and drilling wood.

References

• www.paddling.net: Tips on Building a Kayak Storage Rack

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish