Homemade (& Affordable) Kayak Rack

So I recently procured another kayak which meant… I needed more storage. I’ve been considering these Seattle Sports Kayak Wall Cradles but after reading some message boards and considering the price for two, I figured there was probably a more economical solution. Then, I ran across a discussion which lead me to this cheap solution. I found the hangers and was able to hang TWO kayaks in my garage for just over $30.

Turns out, it was very easy (and cheap) to install so here’s our easy do-it-yourself guide to building your own garage kayak rack.

Equipment and Cost for 1 Rack:

» Heavy Duty Arm Hangers x2: $11.36
(The price fluctuates on Amazon. They’re also available at the Home Depot under the Everbilt brand name.)
» 3” #12 Steel screws x4 (Replace the hardware the hanger comes with): $1.99
» Eye Screws x6: $2.49 (usually sold in a pack)
» Bungees x2: $1.58
» Carabiners x4 (Optional): $1.56
» Rope (Optional): Assuming you already have some, we’ll consider this free.

Total Cost for 1 Rack: $18.98 + tax (almost a $20 savings)
Total Cost for 2 Racks: $33.48 + tax(almost a $45 savings – you save a bit more since the screws all come in boxes).

The Tools You’ll Need:
Powerdrill
Pencil
Tape Measure
Pliers
Stud Finder (Optional)

How To:
Step 1: Find a stud on both sides of the cockpit. Measure the same distance from the floor (or ceiling – whatever you’re close to). Mark, and drill the braces to the studs with 3 Inch #12 steel screws (again, the ones that come with them are not of high quality).

Step 2: Place your kayak on the braces.

Step 3: For added security and so the kayak doesn’t just tip off the braces, you’ll want to add some bungees. Position an eye screw on top of the kayak and one below – parallel to each brace. The position distance depends on how long your bungee is. Choose a distance that’s far enough to keep your bungee taught and your kayak from moving from the wall.

Step 4: (Optional) For even extra added security – and incase a brace fails (it hasn’t happened in 8 years), add another eye screw above and below the bow and stern of the kayak. Then, clip caribiners to each end of a length of rope. Clip one caribiner to the new eye screw, loop the other end of rope and caribiner loosely around the kayak and clip it to the same eye screw.

Step 5: Remove, kayak and paddle often.

As of 2015, we’ve now installed three of these racks and they’ve all held sturdy for over 8 years. Feel free to send us pictures of your homemade kayak rack so we can add them to the post!

(These Heavy Duty Arm Hangers)

Milespaddled.com How-To Video:

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