DIY kayak canoe storage rack ideas
How do you build a kayak rack that suits your exact requirements? One that you can use both outdoors and indoors and is strong enough to hold multiple canoes? In this article we show you 3 examples of storage racks that you can build using Kee Klamp fittings and galvanised steel tube.
Galvanised steel is incredibly sturdy and corrosion resistant, which means that your storage rack will stand the test of time. And the best part is that you can modify these designs or come up with new ones: a fittings and tube system can accommodate these changes with no problems. Curious? Read on.
Discover our 3 examples of DIY kayak canoe storage racks:
Project design 1: DIY kayak canoe storage rack
Proper storage of boats, kayaks and canoes is essential for maintaining their longevity. A strong frame can protect your boats from damage and allow them to dry properly after each use. It also keeps your storage space tidy and your gear easily accessible.
However, sometimes prefabricated boat brackets may not be suitable for your specific needs. Building your own rack is an alternative that allows you to customise the storage unit in a way that pre-made racks just can't.
Take our customer David example. He decided to build his boat storage rack using galvanized steel fittings and tubing. Not only was he able to quickly assemble the structure on his own, but he is now also able to take the structure apart whenever he wants to and reassemble it anywhere he needs it.
A rack that you can modify as your collection grows
Here is another aspect you would need to consider as your boat collection grows: the ability to modify the unit to your heart’s desire. As expected, prefabricated racks can limit you in the long run. If you want to expand your kayak or canoe collection beyond what your rack is originally designed to carry, you will likely need to consider purchasing a second storage unit. David's design however allows the possibility of adding or modifying the existing structure according to his needs.
For example, you can easily add another level by purchasing the relevant fittings and tube and adding them to the storage unit using a simple allen key. Even if you don't plan on having more boats, an extra upper level is a great place to store paddles, paddle boards or even to dry out life jackets.
Finally, if you want to ensure maximum protection for your boats, consider adding padding to your design. David thought about this while he was building his project:
"Inexpensive foam pipe insulation can be slipped over horizontal tube units to provide padding to boats if needed."
Overall, David was very happy with the way the project went, saying:
"The whole rack can be assembled and disassembled in less than 10 minutes and can easily be moved by two adults. At the same time, it is heavy enough so that it won’t be blown over when a strong wind blows."
Specs:
- Frame details
- Height: 1200 mm
- Length: 2000 mm
- Depth: 1200 mm
Assembly:
- Allen key
What's included:
- Tube and fittings
What's not:
- Fixings for attaching the frame to the ground
Are you looking for a mobile storage unit? Several customers have already shown how easy it is to convert almost any standard trailer to a kayak canoe trailer. If you choose a tube and fittings system, you won't need any construction experience or the ability to cut and weld metal to get the job done.
Project design 2: Kayak canoe trailer rack
If you are a kayak owner, you know how difficult it can be to transport your boat from one place to another. So much so that it can even keep you from going out into the water sometimes. The hassle of getting your kayak onto the roof of your car and tying it down can be too much especially if you have a bigger kayak or don't have anyone to help you. Or maybe your car roof doesn't have enough room. This is the reason why many kayak owners invest in a trailer.
Build your own kayak trailer: Utility trailer conversion
This old trailer was converted by Mark into a kayak and canoe trailer. Mark didn't have enough room above his SUV to haul all the boats, but his new trailer helped him achieve that. Mark's favorite part about using the fittings to build the rack was that it didn't require any soldering to assemble. He also liked that the fittings were easy to use.
Specs:
- Frame dimensions
- Height: 1000 mm
- Length: 1200 mm
Assembly:
- Allen key
What's included:
- Tube and fittings
What's not:
- Fixings for attaching the rack to the wooden frames
- Wooden parts
Project design 3: Storage frame for 4 kayaks
Here is another standard trailer conversion project: this one will allow you to store 4 kayaks or canoes.
As with Mark’s project, all you need to build this rack are a few basic tools plus fittings and tube. The cool thing about this unit is that you can fix it onto a trailer or on the floor, depending on your needs.
Specs:
- Frame measurements
- Height: 1000 mm
- Depth: 1200 mm
- Length: 1600 mm (tube length
Assembly:
- Allen key
What's included:
- Tube and fittings
What's not:
- Fixings for attaching the frame to the surface
If you have another boat stand design in mind but are unsure of what parts you need, do not hesitate to contact our team for free design assistance. Our project team will be happy to help you create your storage rack.
