Many kayak enthusiasts living in apartments face the challenge of properly storing their beloved watercraft. Limited space and strict building rules can make it difficult to find an appropriate storage solution. If you’re thinking about how to store a kayak in an apartment, worry no more! This blog post will provide you with detailed steps on making the most of your available space while keeping your kayak safe and secure.
Storing A Kayak In An Apartment? 7 Clever Options
Follow this guide to safely and securely store kayaks in an apartment. But, before starting you’ve to first measure the kayak and assess the storage space.
Measure Your Kayak
The first step to store a kayak in an apartment is to know its dimensions. To do this, start by measuring the length from the tip of the bow to the tip of the stern. Kayak lengths can vary, typically ranging from 8 feet to 16 feet. The longer your kayak, the more challenging it will be to store. Next, measure the widest part of the kayak, commonly around the cockpit area.
Kayak widths range from 24 to 36 inches, and wider kayaks will require more floor space. Lastly, weigh your kayak or check the manufacturer’s specs for weight. Kayaks usually weigh between 30 and 70 pounds. The lighter your kayak, the easier it will be to maneuver in tight spaces, making lightweight kayaks advantageous for apartment storage.
Assess Storage Space
Now that you have your kayak’s dimensions, it’s time to assess the storage space available in your apartment. Remember, closets, balconies, and storage units may offer viable options for keeping your kayak secure and out of the way. Consider measuring the dimensions of these potential storage spaces to ensure your kayak will fit comfortably.
So, you’ve measured the dimensions of your kayak and assessed the storage space, now it’s time to start the storing process. You can try different options as discussed below to store your kayak.
Try Storing Vertically
Vertical storage for kayaks in apartments is a smart way to save space. You can do this with wall-mounted racks or pulley systems. Wall-mounted racks stick to the wall and hold the kayak upright. You need to fix them well into the wall for safety. Check your ceiling height to make sure the kayak won’t touch it. These racks have soft parts to keep the kayak safe from scratches.
Pulley systems lift the kayak up to the ceiling. They take up less space on the floor and keep the kayak out of the way. Make sure you install them securely into the ceiling. Be careful when lifting or lowering the kayak to avoid any damage. It’s good to have someone help you handle the kayak safely. Before picking one, measure your ceiling and the kayak to find the best storage option.
Store Under The Bed
One of the most convenient ways to store a kayak in an apartment is under your bed. This method cleverly utilizes unused vertical space and keeps your kayak easily accessible yet out of sight. First, measure the height and length of your kayak to ensure it fits under the bed frame.
Storing under the bed also calls for the use of furniture risers or rollers. Risers, which can be made from wood or PVC pipe, elevate the bed, creating enough clearance for the kayak. Place them under each bed leg or the bed frame. Alternatively, attach rollers to the kayak’s bottom, allowing it to easily slide under and out of the bed. This method not only optimizes unused space but also protects your kayak while keeping it easily accessible.
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Standing Upright
Another practical solution is storing the kayak upright against a wall or in a closet. This approach capitalizes on vertical space and ensures your kayak is neatly tucked away. For stability, position the kayak perpendicular to the wall, possibly leaning against a stud.
Wall-mounted kayak racks or brackets can provide extra support and prevent the kayak from sliding or slipping. Vertical racks or hooks are also suitable for closet storage. If you opt for this storage method, consider storing the kayak on its side with the cockpit facing out, which offers better stability. You can even place the paddle across the cockpit for additional support.
However, upright storage requires some floor space along the wall, so be sure to measure the length and width of your kayak to ensure it fits without obstructing doors or walkways. Avoid direct sunlight, which can damage the hull over time. If you choose to store your kayak in a closet, remember to prop the door open slightly to ensure adequate airflow and prevent moisture buildup.
Deflating/Inflatable Kayaks
For individuals residing in apartments who are looking for an effective way to store a kayak, deflatable or inflatable options offer a clever alternative. Crafted from flexible materials like polyester, foldable kayaks effortlessly collapse into compact packages when deflated, utilizing Boston valves to expel air. Once compressed, they neatly tuck away into a carry bag resembling a briefcase, easily storable under a bed, within a closet, or even in the trunk of a car.
Inflatable kayaks take this concept further, employing high-pressure air bladders and pumps for inflation. When not in use, they neatly fold into backpack-sized bags, occupying minimal space in an apartment. While sacrificing some rigidity and size compared to hard-shell counterparts, the convenience of deflating and compactly storing these versatile boats makes them an ideal solution for apartment living. Simply inflate when ready to hit the water, offering a practical and space-saving solution for urban adventurers.
Try Securing On The Ceiling
If you have high ceilings, consider storing your kayak on the ceiling. This method requires ceiling-mounted racks or hoists. These systems use pulleys and ropes to lift and lower the kayak, making it easy to access when needed. Before installing the system, make sure that your ceiling has the capacity to bear the weight of your kayak.
When storing your kayak on the ceiling, ensure that it is securely fastened to prevent any swinging or potential falling. You can use straps or bungee cords to fasten the kayak securely and avoid any accident. It’s also a good idea to inspect the storage system periodically to check for any wear or damage that could compromise its stability.
Outdoors Storage
If your apartment has a balcony, patio, or even a small yard, outdoor storage is a viable option. Find a shady spot, like under a roof or porch, to shield your kayak from sun and rain.
Use a rack or hooks to keep it off the ground, and then cover it with a tarp to protect it from rain, snow, and bird droppings. Never leave it on the grass as this could lead to mold formation. Secure your kayak with a cable lock to deter theft, and if possible, store it upside down to avoid the accumulation of water inside.
Regularly inspect for any signs of damage, and ensure that your insurance covers outdoor storage. By giving proper attention and upkeep, your outdoor area can transform into the ideal location for storing your kayak.
Offsite Storage
Storing a kayak offsite is another option if space is extremely limited in your apartment. Though it may be inconvenient to transport the kayak to and from storage, it solves the storage issue.
Rent a Storage Unit
One option is to rent a storage unit at a self-storage facility. Look for a climate-controlled storage unit in order to protect the kayak from temperature extremes. Make sure the unit is large enough to fit the kayak and any accessories. Storage units typically have monthly rental fees based on size.
Use a Locker
Some storage facilities offer individual lockers for rent. This is a more affordable option than renting an entire unit. Look for a locker that is tall enough and deep enough to accommodate a kayak. These small storage spaces are ideal for kayak storage when paired with a roof rack for transport.
Safely Transporting The Kayak
Finally you have decided the best option to store the kayak, now its time to transport the kayak safely. Transporting a kayak in an apartment building can appear challenging due to its size and shape, but with the right techniques, it becomes manageable.
You can seek assistance from a friend that will help to alleviate the load. When lifting the kayak, it’s important to bend at the knees and not the waist to prevent back strain. Utilizing padding like gloves and shoulder pads can help cushion the weight.
Carrying the kayak vertically provides better stability. Hold the kayak upright while you walk, and be careful not to hit the walls in the elevator. If you have to use stairs, go slowly and hold onto the railing for support. Take breaks if you need to rest. With a friend and some care, you can move your kayak through your apartment building without any problems.
Conclusion
Storing a kayak in an apartment just needs some smart thinking and using the space you’ve got. Measure your kayak, see where it fits, and find ways to keep it safe. Whether it’s hanging it on the wall, sliding it under your bed, or even keeping it outside on a balcony, there are plenty of ways to make it work. If you’ve got an inflatable kayak, that’s even easier! And when you need to move it around, grab a friend to help and take it easy. With a little planning, you can keep your kayak safe and be ready to paddle whenever you want.
