Kayak racks can be a great way to store your kayaks and protect them from the elements. However, they can also be expensive to buy ready-made, so many people opt to make their DIY kayak racks. Making your rack gives you the flexibility of customizing it to fit your specific needs, as well as providing an enjoyable challenge.
This blog post “DIY kayak rack plans and ideas” will provide you with some 32+ plans and ideas. We’ll cover different types of racks, from basic wall-mounted racks to more complex freestanding designs. With these ideas in hand, you can create a custom rack that is tailored to fit your needs perfectly
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What Is DIY Kayak Rack?
A DIY kayak rack is an easy-to-make, cost-effective way to store your kayaks. It is typically made from a variety of materials such as wood, steel, and PVC pipe. The most common type of kayak rack is the wall-mounted style which can be built in just a few hours using basic tools and materials.
This type of rack is great for storing your kayaks close to the ground, keeping them secure and out of the way. There are also freestanding versions of kayak racks that offer more versatility and can be moved around easily.
What Are The Benefits Of DIY Kayak Racks?
There are many benefits to building your kayak rack. Below are a few of the key benefits:
- Cost Savings: Building your kayak rack can save you a lot of money compared to purchasing a pre-made version. You can find the materials for most projects at your local store or online and they are usually affordable. This makes DIY kayak racks an attractive option for anyone looking to save some money.
- Customization: With a DIY rack, you have the freedom to design and build it exactly how you want it. You can choose the size, shape, materials, and other details that will fit your kayak perfectly. This allows for complete customization that is impossible to find in store-bought racks.
- Gain DIY Skills: Working on DIY projects is not just fun, but it can provide valuable experience that you can use in the future. Learning how to build your kayak rack will teach you basic carpentry skills and give you a sense of accomplishment.
How To Build A Kayak Rack?
Building a kayak rack is not as difficult as you might think. It requires basic carpentry, measuring, and assembly skills. Here are the steps you’ll need to take to build your DIY kayak rack:
- Measure the size of your kayak and determine the dimensions of your rack.
- Cut the lumber to create the frame of the rack using a circular saw.
- Attach the framing pieces with nails or screws.
- Add support braces if necessary to make sure your rack is strong and stable.
- Upholster the frame with plywood if desired for a more finished look.
- Attach the rack to a wall or mount it on wheels if you want to be able to move it around easily.
- Add kayak holders such as straps, clips, or cradles to secure your kayaks to the rack.
By following these steps and adding your creative touches, you’ll be able to build a kayak rack that will meet your needs perfectly. With a DIY kayak rack, you can store your kayaks safely and conveniently while also saving money in the process.
Best DIY Kayak Rack Plans And Ideas (2024)
There are different DIY kayak rack plans and ideas available to help you build a kayak rack on your own. Following are the best DIY kayak rack plans and ideas that you can choose from, depending on your preference.
1. PVC Kayak Rack
This is an affordable, easy-to-build option for a DIY kayak rack. The design is super simple and it can be designed to fit 33-inch wide kayaks. You only need PVC pipe, T-connectors, PVC end caps, and VC glue. It will be strong enough to hold one or two kayaks at a time. The material is also lightweight and will not take up too much space.
2. DIY Metal Kayak Rack For Truck Bed
This option is for those who want to maximize the kayak storage space in their truck bed. Instead of using PVC pipes, this one utilizes metal instead. It should be strong enough to support two kayaks at a time and it will also keep them secure while on the move.
3. Four-Kayak PVC Rack
This is another great option for a DIY kayak rack as it can handle up to four kayaks. The cool design allows you to set up the rack in your garage and then also picked up and secured it in a truck bed. It is lightweight and should be strong enough to handle the weight of four kayaks.
4. Wall-Mounted PVC Kayak Rack for Three Kayaks
It is a great design if you have limited space. It stores your kayak’s right side up and, ideally, on a flat surface. This vertical design stores your kayaks essentially one above the other so that they take up minimal space in your garage or on the side of your house.
5. Trailer-Mounted DIY Kayak Rack
With this DIY kayak rack idea, you can create a customized kayak trailer to safely transport up to four kayaks. All you need is a flat trailer that isn’t optimized for kayak storage and some other materials such as PVC pipe and metal brackets. This will give your trailer added stability when hauling multiple kayaks.
6. Scrap Wood DIY Kayak Rack
We all have scrap wood lying around in our garages and basements, just waiting to be used. If you don’t want to bother with PVC pipes or metal brackets, then this is the perfect solution for you. You can use scrap wood or even driftwood to make a DIY kayak rack that should be able to hold one or two kayaks.
Making this rack is not as difficult as it seems, but it will require some basic carpentry, measuring, and assembly skills.
7. Quick Kayak Rack
If you don’t have the time and energy to go through all of the steps above, then this is the perfect solution for you. This DIY kayak rack utilizes lumber to secure up to six kayaks vertically inside a metal or aluminum shed. You only need to cut and assemble the pieces, and then connect them using nails or screws.
8. Truck Bed Wooden DIY Kayak Rack
This option is perfect for those who want to store their kayaks in the back of their truck. It’s designed to fit in your truck bed for longer kayaks and allows you to maintain storage space underneath your boat for all of your other paddling safety equipment. You can use lumber, plywood, and other materials to build this rack.
9. DIY PVC Kayak Stand
If you want an easy way to store your kayaks outside, this is the perfect solution for you. This option utilizes a 1.25-inch schedule 40 PVC pipe with T-connectors, elbow connectors, end caps, and PVC glue. It’s designed to be leaned up against a shed or the side of your home so that it won’t take up too much space. It’s also lightweight and can be easily moved around when needed.
10. Suspended Storage
When limited storage space is an issue, suspended storage is a great option. It saves you space and can be less expensive to make than other storage solutions. Ideas include building a vertical hanging rack from the ceiling or studs on the wall, using rope and pulleys, or affixing metal hooks to the wall for floating kayaks. With a bit of creativity, you can come up with a unique suspended storage solution for your kayaks.
11. Simple Garage Storage
This simple storage solution is suited to work in the garage and if you do not own a garage, you may be able to replicate this storage solution in a shed or basement. It utilizes a lean-to design, which can be created with 2x4s and plywood. Once assembled, it can hold up to four kayaks while taking up minimal floor space. This is an ideal option if you have limited storage space in your garage or shed.
12. PVC DIY Kayak Rack For Vehicle Roof
The PVC DIY kayak rack for the vehicle roof is another great option if you have crossbars already installed on your vehicle. This setup utilizes PVC J-hooks that can be attached directly to the crossbars and are strong enough to hold multiple kayaks at once. It’s ideal for long trips, as the weight of the kayaks will be evenly distributed across the roof of your vehicle.
13. DIY Two-Kayak Yard Rack
If you’d like to store your kayaks in the yard, this is a great option. It utilizes the kinds of T-posts used for stretching longer sections of fencing material. The T-posts are pounded solidly into the ground, and two-by-fours are then attached as cross braces to hold up to two kayaks.
14. Freestanding Four-Kayak Wooden Kayak Rack
This is a more advanced DIY kayak rack that requires woodworking skills and expensive cutting and shaping tools. It’s designed to be freestanding, but it can also be secured against the wall in your garage or shed. The result is an attractive four-kayak rack that is sure to draw the attention of any visitors.
15. Wall-Mounted Wooden Garage Kayak Rack
If you would like to store your kayaks in the garage, this wall-mounted wooden rack is a great option. It utilizes wood planks and metal brackets which can be secured directly into the concrete walls of your garage or shed. This option requires proper drills and heavy mounting tools to support the weight of the kayaks.
Other DIY Kayak Rack Plans And Ideas (2024)
1. Three-Kayak Wooden DIY Kayak Rack
This option is designed to store three kayaks at an accessible height. The design is shorter and can be stored on a deck, dock, or even in the garage. This makes it easier for loading and unloading your kayaks without having to move them from one area of the yard to another.
It provides a safe and secure way to store your kayaks outside.
2. Freestanding Six-Kayak DIY Rack
This is an excellent choice for those who need a lot of storage space for their kayaks. The freestanding design makes it easy to drag the rack away from the house if needed, and it can accommodate up to six kayaks. The structure is made from 4” x 6” posts to form the base and 2” x 4” lumber for the sides, making it sturdy and reliable.
3. Wall-Mounted Metal DIY Kayak Rack
The wall-mounted metal DIY kayak rack is a great option for those who prefer a more modern look. This setup utilizes metal piping that can be secured directly to the walls of your shed or garage. It’s an easy solution to set up, and you can create as many DIY wall-mounted kayak hangers as needed depending on how many kayaks you own.
4. DIY Two-Kayak Yard Rack
The DIY Two-Kayak Yard Rack is an easy way to store kayaks in the yard. This setup utilizes T-posts that are used for stretching longer sections of fencing material, and the cross braces are made from two-by-fours. The T-posts can be pounded firmly into the ground and will securely hold up to two kayaks. This is an excellent option for those who want an easy, low-cost solution for storing kayaks in the yard.
5. Homemade Truck Bed PVC Kayak Rack
This homemade truck bed PVC kayak rack is a great solution for those who need to transport multiple kayaks in the bed of their truck. The beauty of this setup is that it is lightweight and adjustable, so you can easily adapt the rack for larger trucks if needed. This is an excellent solution that’s sure to make transporting multiple kayaks a breeze.
6. Wall-Mounted DIY Kayak Rack From Electrical Conduit
This wall-mounted DIY kayak rack is a great solution for those who need to store multiple kayaks in their garage or shed. It utilizes an electrical conduit and a pipe bender to create the hardware needed for mounting onto the walls, and it also requires some basic woodworking skills for creating the actual frame. This is an inexpensive way to store your kayaks and will provide you with a secure rack that is sure to last for years to come.
7. 12 Kayak Wooden DIY Rack
There’s no better way to store up to 12 kayaks than with this high-capacity wooden DIY rack. This setup utilizes wood planks and metal brackets which are easy to assemble, making it a great choice for those who need plenty of storage space for their kayak collection. It’s also portable and can be easily moved around the yard. With this setup, you’ll be able to store all of your kayaks in one convenient location.
8. Outdoor Covered DIY Canoe and Kayak Rack
It’s an ideal solution for those who want to store their kayaks and canoes outdoors year-round. This outdoor covered DIY canoe and kayak rack is a more complex build but will provide an excellent solution with its large roof that keeps your vessels safe from rain, snow, and UV radiation. It can easily accommodate up to six kayaks or four canoes and two kayaks, making it a great choice for larger collections. With this setup, you’ll be able to store your vessels all year round without worry.
9. Combination DIY Kayak and Bike Rack
The Combination DIY Kayak and Bike Rack is a great outdoor storage solution that keeps your kayaks and bikes organized and out of the way. It can store up to one bike and a single kayak, with plenty of room on the lower shelf for all your kayak fishing accessories. This rack is easy to construct and provides superior protection from the elements while keeping everything secure.
10. Homemade Kayak Rack and Garage Shelving Unit
If you’re like us and have limited space for storing your kayaks, this DIY homemade kayak rack could be exactly what you need. It’s a great solution to improve your kayak storage, as it can store up to three kayaks safely and securely. You can also use the installed shelving unit on all three levels to store some of your kayak accessories such as fishing gear, life jackets, and other recreation equipment. This is an easy-to-build project that doesn’t require a lot of materials or tools.
11. DIY Exterior Covered Kayak Storage Shed
This DIY exterior-covered kayak storage shed is the perfect solution if you are looking for a way to store your kayaks outside and protect them from the elements. This build is easy to construct and requires few materials or tools. The shed can house up to two kayaks and provides plenty of storage space for your outdoor recreation gear. With its unique design, this covered kayak storage shed will be a great addition to your backyard or front porch.
12. Wooden DIY Kayak Rack Built for Three Kayaks
This DIY wooden kayak rack can store up to three kayaks and is an easy build for any DIYer. The lumber rack should be pressure-treated wood so that it can withstand the elements, and the rest of the items necessary to complete this build can all be found at Home Depot. This kayak rack provides plenty of storage space while still giving your kayaks a rustic and stylish look.
13. Lightweight DIY PVC Three-Kayak Rack
This type of kayak rack is an ideal solution for small paddlers looking for a convenient way to store and transport their kayaks. The lightweight DIY PVC Three-Kayak Rack has a unique design that allows it to store up to three kayaks while keeping them closer to the ground for easy loading and unloading.
Additionally, its lightweight materials make it easier to carry around and transport. The rack is perfect for those who have limited storage or carrying space and need to store their kayaks efficiently.
14. DIY PVC Kayak Rack You Can Build For Under $100
This DIY PVC kayak rack can be constructed for under $100 and is perfect for those who are looking for a lightweight, easy-to-build, and inexpensive way to store their kayaks. The rack can hold up to two kayaks that can either be stored upside down or right side up, depending on the user’s preference.
It only requires minimal cutting of PVC pipes and can be constructed by even the most inexperienced person. This is a great option for those who are looking for an easy and affordable way to store their kayaks without taking up too much space.
15. Rustic Crafts DIY Kayak Rack
This Rustic Crafts DIY Kayak Rack is designed to store up to four kayaks and can also hold additional paddles. It is constructed with a sturdy wooden frame that supports metal arms that are strong enough to carry the majority of the weight of the kayak. This rack is perfect for those who want an easy-to-assemble rack that looks great and has ample storage capabilities.
16. DIY PVC Two-Kayak Rack with Lower Wooden Shelf
This simple two-kayak rack is ideal for those who need to store their kayaks in a garage or covered area. This design utilizes PVC pipes and connectors, so it is light yet strong enough to hold up two kayaks securely. It also features a lower shelf that can be used to store paddles and other kayaking gear. This DIY PVC Two-Kayak Rack is easy to assemble and provides an affordable storage solution for paddlers.
17. Freestanding Wooden Two-Kayak Garage Storage Rack
This freestanding wooden two-kayak garage storage rack is a stylish and convenient way to store your kayaks. Its unique hook-shaped design allows you to easily mount it on a wall in your garage, keeping the kayaks secure and out of the way.
The sturdy construction ensures that it can hold up to two kayaks at once, giving you plenty of storage options. This is a great option for those who want to keep their kayaks safe and organized without taking up too much space.
18. DIY Wooden Kayak and Paddleboard Storage Rack
It’s hard to find a way to store multiple kayaks and paddleboards without taking up too much space. But this DIY Wooden Kayak and Paddleboard Storage Rack is designed to do just that! It has a rectangular design that allows you to consolidate your kayaks and paddleboards in one convenient location.
Plus, the two shelves on the bottom provide separate storage options for paddleboards, while the upper shelf is perfect for storing a kayak. This simple DIY rack is a great way to keep your watersports equipment organized and out of the way.
How To Build Kayak Rack For Home?
Kayak rack construction is an easy DIY project that can help you store your kayaks in a safe and organized manner. There are many different types of racks that you can build, depending on the space available in your home or garage. The following are step-by-step instructions on how to build a kayak rack for home.
- First, arrange the necessary materials you will need for your kayak racks, such as two pieces of lumber, four screws, four washers, and one ratchet strap.
- The second thing you must do is measure and mark the lumber pieces for cutting. You will need four equal-sized pieces that should be cut according to your measurements.
- Third, you need to drill four holes in each piece of lumber, evenly spaced apart. These holes will be used to attach the supports to the wall using screws and washers.
- Fourth, assemble the pieces by fastening them with screws and washers. Make sure to check that all components are properly secured before moving on to step five.
- Lastly, attach the ratchet strap to the finished kayak rack and secure it against the wall. Now place your kayaks in the rack, and you’re done.
How To Build Kayak Rack For Car?
If you’re looking for a way to transport your kayaks in style, building your car kayak rack is the way to go. It’s relatively easy to do and incredibly affordable compared to buying one from a store. Here are the steps on how to build a car kayak rack:
- You should make all the supplies available. You will need two PVC pipes, four corner brackets, screws, washers, and nuts.
- Next, cut the PVC pipes to the desired length (recommended about 4 feet) and then you need to use the corner brackets to attach them at the corners.
- Once the rack is constructed, you need to attach it to your car by screwing the washers and nuts into the holes in the brackets. Make sure that all screws are tight.
- Finally, place your kayaks onto the rack and secure them with straps or bungee cords. And you’re all set.
Tips To Build A DIY Kayak Rack
Building a kayak rack is an easy and affordable way to store your kayaks. There are a variety of different plans and materials you can use to build your rack, but here are some general tips to help make the process easier:
- Measuring is never too much: It’s important to measure twice so that you can accurately cut only once. This will make or break your design in many ways. When measuring, make sure to take into account any obstructions that may be present in your desired location. The accuracy of the measurements is key to creating a successful kayak rack.
- Additional Supplies are wiser: When building a kayak rack, you should always purchase extra materials. This will help you avoid having to make a second trip to your local hardware store if something goes wrong in the middle of the project or if you need to do any last minute cutting or measurement. Experienced builders can usually get away with rounding up less when it comes to supplies, but less skilled individuals should round up by as much as three or four feet.
- Weather Treatment: Since your kayak rack is going to be outside, you should think about weatherproofing it. PVC tends to require the least in terms of weatherproofing but if you are planning on using wood or metal then make sure to break down and treat it appropriately so it doesn’t rot or corrode over time and cause you additional time and effort to repair your DIY kayak rack.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which DIY kayak rack is best for trucks?
The best DIY Kayak Rack for trucks would be the Truck Bed Wooden DIY Kayak Rack, Homemade Truck Bed PVC Kayak Rack, DIY Metal Kayak Rack For Truck Bed, and Four-Kayak PVC Rack. These are all great choices that can easily be customized to fit your specific needs.
2. Can you use PVC to make a kayak rack?
Yes, you can use PVC to make a kayak rack. PVC is an incredibly versatile material and is relatively easy to work with. With the right tools and supplies, you can construct an efficient and durable kayak rack out of PVC. Plus, it’s much cheaper than buying a pre-made rack.
3. Are straps or bungee cords necessary for a car kayak rack?
Yes, straps or bungee cords are essential to keep your kayaks secure when transporting them in a car. They will help prevent any possible damage that may occur during transportation and provide extra stability while the vehicle is in motion.
4. Which DIY projects can you build with 2×4?
The simple garage storage DIY kayak rack that we have described above can be a great starting point for any DIY 2×4 project. Additionally, with a few 2x4s and some basic tools, you can make almost anything from shelves to birdhouses to small tables. Be creative and let your imagination guide you!
Final Words
Building a DIY kayak rack is an easy and affordable way to store your kayaks. Follow these tips, measure twice, purchase extra materials, and consider weatherproofing the material you’re using, to ensure your DIY kayak rack can stand up to the elements.
In our article “DIY kayak rack plans and ideas”, we have discussed all the necessary information that you need to know before building a kayak rack. With these tips, you’re sure to have success in creating your very own DIY kayak rack. Happy building!
