Once summer is over and winter fast approaches, it is time to pack your water sports equipment and bring out the storage rack for your surfboard and your kayak. Aside from keeping them from getting stolen, you don’t want them getting potentially damaged before you get to use them again for summer next year.
Kayak Storage
Kayaks are made with delicate materials, usually fiberglass, plastic and coated fabric, designed to give them optimal performance in the water. Because of this, it is important to keep them away from heat and not to store them for a very long time. Plastic kayaks are the most common, most affordable and even the most durable if used on rocky beaches. Plastic kayaks are also easy to transport and repair.
A composite kayak, like the ones made of fibreglass, is great on the ocean and is long-lasting, but is not suitable on rocky shores.
Kayak storage could be a challenge because most kayaks are quite long and bulky. A few requirements must be satisfied for their successful storage, but here are some basic reminders.
Where to Store Kayaks
It is best to store kayaks indoors, but if it is not practical, then you may store them in a location where there is no direct sunlight exposure and they are protected from extreme temperature. Sunlight can cause kayaks to become brittle. Moisture can also degrade the hull material. Extreme heat will deform the hull of plastic kayaks, and extreme cold can damage your fibreglass kayak.
If you lack space and are unsure if you could maintain your kayak, it is best to buy an inflatable kayak that could fold and fit in just a backpack. This can be stored in the closet or in the garage very easily.
How to Store Kayaks
There are many options for kayak storage. You may store your kayak on the wall using a wall bracket and a storage rack, vertically and horizontally. You may also store it on the ground. Make sure, though, that there is wood under the kayak for protection and that it is leaning towards the side.
Before storing your kayak, ensure the following:
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Clean the kayak thoroughly including the rudder and cables. Remove all grime, dirt and sand. Do not use chemicals in cleaning. Clean it with mild soap instead. Make sure that the boat is dry before storing. The trapped moisture in the kayak will make the material brittle and eventually damage it.
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If you plan to hang the kayak or place it on a storage rack, add enough weight support under the boat to avoid creating pressure points. Such pressure points could deform the kayak.
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If you are storing your kayak outside, remove any part, including soft materials, that might fall off.
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Cover the kayak, whether you plan to store it inside or outside your home, because this will give it an added layer of protection.
What NOT to do
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When cleaning your kayak, do not scrub it too much. Use mild soap instead to remove stains and just spray it with water to rinse it all off.
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Do not keep your kayak exposed to direct sunlight, as this could damage it.
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When you own a plastic kayak, don’t lay it on a hard surface because it could cave in under pressure, resulting in a flat bottom.
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Don’t hang the kayak using the handles because it will create a concave kayak with a sagging bottom.
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Do not strap it tightly into the storage rack.
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Do not leave your kayak unsecured, especially if you are storing it outside. Remember that a kayak is an investment.
Surfboard Storage
Surfboards should be stored indoors and secured from the elements. Just like the kayak, surfboards will be damaged if they are continuously exposed to the sun and rain. Here are a few reminders on how to store your surfboards:
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Surfboards should not be stacked on top of each other. The weight of all the surfboards will damage the bottom board. A surfboard rack can usually store up to five boards separately and prevent them from banging and scratching each other.
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Store your surfboards vertically. Unlike kayaks, surfboards do not require a certain angle when they are being stored, so they may be stored vertically.
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If you have a small space, you may store your surfboard on the ceiling using a ceiling surfboard rack.
Storing your favourite sports equipment is easy if you have a garage, a big room or a storage space. But what if you don’t have space for your water sports equipment? Visit Spacer.com to find the most fitting storage space for your needs. It even comes with a money back guarantee. Spacer also offers boat storage in addition to one for your water sports equipment. Visit our site now!
