How to Hang a Kayak in a Garage

If you own a kayak, or you're thinking about getting one, hanging your boat from the ceiling in your garage is a great way to get it up and out of the way when you're not using it. Storing your kayak overhead is also an excellent use of space that otherwise wouldn't be used in your garage. Hanging a kayak in the garage is easy if you've invested in a high-quality overhead suspension system. Here's how:

Find a reliable suspension system

If you're lifting your kayak off the ground to store it, you need to make sure the suspension system you buy is up for the task. The Elevate Outdoor Deluxe Kayak and Canoe Storage Hoist is your best bet. It features a universal hoist system that anchors securely into the ceiling of your garage, along with a double pully system for safe, easy operation.

Measure the kayak

Use a measuring tape to determine the size of your kayak. Start by measuring the distance between the bulkheads, or the watertight compartments directly in front of and behind the seat. Then, measure the widest part of the kayak - where the seat is - to determine the width. You'll use these measurements to properly space out the supports that will hold the kayak in place.

Look for joists

Once you've found the right suspension system for your kayak, it's time to install it. Start by grabbing a stud finder so that you can locate the joists in the ceiling. Your suspension system will be bolted to these support beams for maximum stability. Listen for the stud finder to beep and mark the locations of the studs in pencil.

Remember that the hardware of your kayak suspension system shouldn't be set over bare drywall. It's too weak to support the weight of the kayak and could even tear the screws out of the ceiling. Anchoring the hardware into the studs leads to a safe, sturdy hanging system.

Mark installation points

After finding the studs in your garage's ceiling, you need to mark installation points that correspond to the boat's length and width. Use the bulkhead length first, then measure side to side to correspond to the kayak's width and the position of the nearest joists. Don't worry if the joists don't line up with the exact measurements of your kayak - installation points can be spaced slightly further than the kayak's width with no complications.

Attach the ceiling mounts

If you've invested in a high-quality suspension system like the Elevate Outdoor Deluxe Kayak and Canoe Storage Hoist, the next step in your kayak storage project involves attaching the ceiling mounts. Use four wood screws to anchor the mounts into the joists. Generally, these mounts should be installed 6 to 8 feet apart, but the distance can vary depending on your application.

Attach the pulley rope

Grab the pully rope included with your suspension kit and feed it through the system. Remember that the end of the rope should be tied in a knot inside the bracket to keep the rope from slipping all the way through the pulley. Then, grab the rope tie-off and anchor it to a wall stud using two wood screws.

Attach the brackets and lift the boat

Grab the left and right brackets and bolt them to the ceiling mounts. Now, you're ready to lift the kayak. There are two prongs on each pulley hook. Slide the boat strap included with your suspension kit over one prong, then slide it around the boat, and attach the other end to the prong on the other side.

Wall-mounted storage solutions

Not sure whether a ceiling-mounted kayak storage solution is right for you? A wall-mounted solution, like the Elevate Outdoor Kayak Wall Mount, may be ideal. You can quickly install this wall-mounted rack, and the arms can be rotated to the side against the wall, keeping them out of the way when not in use. This option is ideal if you want to store multiple kayaks in your garage without sacrificing valuable floor space.

Free up space in your garage with a kayak ceiling suspension system

Owning a kayak is fun but storing it can be challenging. By lifting your kayak off the ground and suspending it from the ceiling, you maximize the storage space you have in your garage. Discount Ramps has everything you need to safely and efficiently store your kayak when you're not using it. Reach out to our friendly team today to learn more!