You may think you can turn your canoe or kayak upside down and let it sit on the ground in your yard until next summer, but doing this can deform the hull and prematurely age your watercraft. Here are some tips for properly storing your canoe or kayak to keep it in ship shape.
Outdoor storage
If you plan on storing your kayak or canoe outdoors over the winter, raise it on foam boat blocks, lay it on padded sawhorses or install an L-shaped rack at the side of your house or garage to keep it off the ground. It’s best to store canoes upside down on the gunwales and kayaks on their sides.
It’s also good to invest in a water- and UV-resistant cover to prevent your watercraft from becoming damaged or faded. Furthermore, keep your kayak or canoe hidden from view and position it, so it’s difficult for a thief to grab it.
Indoor storage
Storing your kayak or canoe indoors is the best way to extend its lifespan and keep it safe from pests, inclement weather and direct sunlight. The most common storage methods are hanging it from the ceiling or using a boat rack.
If hanging your boat from the ceiling, do so with the hull facing up. Never hang a canoe or kayak by the grab loops. These aren’t structural handles and could break. Instead, use wide straps or slings that wrap under the hull.
If you decide to store your boat on a rack, choose one that supports the watercraft at several points along its length. Look for a model that allows the canoe or kayak to lay on its side or hull-side up.
Finally, if you’re looking for the ideal storage conditions for your kayak or canoe, investing in a climate-controlled storage space is your best option. U-Need Storage has a variety of boat, vehicle and RV storage units for customers in Ontario, including Milton, Guelph, Georgetown and Oakville.
STORAGE FACILITIES IN MISSISSAUGA AND BEYOND
If you need to store seasonal items like your canoe, kayak or motorboat over the winter, U-Need Storage has a self-storage unit to suit your needs. We have 12 convenient locations to choose from and serve customers across the Greater Toronto Area, including Freelton. Contact us today for more information. We have experienced storage estimators to help you find a suitable unit.