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This step by step diy project is about kayak storage rack plans. I have designed this rack so you can store up to three kayaks, while saving space in your backyard or workshop. This project requires mainly 2×2 lumber, so the structure will be really rigid and durable. Take a look over the rest of our woodworking plans, if you want to get more building inspiration.
When buying the lumber, you should select the planks with great care, making sure they are straight and without any visible flaws (cracks, knots, twists, decay). Investing in cedar or other weather resistant lumber is a good idea, as it will pay off on the long run. Use a spirit level to plumb and align the components, before inserting the galvanized screws, otherwise the project won’t have a symmetrical look. If you have all the materials and tools required for the project, you could get the job done in about a day.
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Projects made from these plans
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Kayak Storage Rack Plans
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Cut & Shopping Lists
- A – 2 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 54″ long, 4 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 18″ long BASE
- B – 2 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 51 1/2″ long, 2 pieces – 51″ long SUPPORTS
- C – 3 piece of 2×2 lumber – 51″ long, 2 pieces – 39″ long, 2 pieces of 1×4 lumber – 54″ long TOP RACK
- D – 8 pieces of 2×2 lumber – 12 3/4″ long, 2 pieces – 17″ long BRACES
- 2 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 10′
- 6 piece of of 2×2 lumber – 6′
- 1 piece of 1×4 lumber – 10′
- 100 pieces of 2 1/2″ screws
- 100 2 1/2″ galvanized screws
- 100 pieces 1 1/4″ screws
- wood glue, stain/paint
- wood fillerÂ
Tools
 Hammer, Tape measure, Framing square, Level
 Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander
 Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses
Time
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Building a kayak storage rack
The first step of the project is to assemble the main frame for the kayak storage rack. Cut the components from 2×2 lumber and drill pilot holes through the vertical supports. Make sure the corners are square and add glue the joints. Insert 2 1/2″ screws to lock the components together tightly.
The next step of the project is to build the base for the kayak storage rack. As you can see in the image, you need to build the supports from 2×2 lumber and the rails from 2×6 lumber. Drill pocket holes at both ends of the 2×2 supports and insert 2 1/2″ screws to secure them into place.
Add waterproof glue to the joints. Use a spirit level to make sure the vertical supports are plumb. Use a spirit level to check if the corners are square.
Next, assemble the frame for the top rack. Cut the components from 2×2 lumber and align everything with attention. Make sure the corners are square, drill pilot holes and insert 2 1/2″ screws to lock everything together tightly.
Fit 1×4 slats to the sides of the frame, so you prevent the kayak from slipping off the rack. Use 1 1/4″ screws and glue to secure the rails to the frame. You can adjust the size of the top rack so you can fit two or just one kayak.
Fit the rack to the top of the vertical supports, making sure you center it into place accurately. Drill pilot holes through the top frame and insert 2 1/2″ screws into the vertical posts.
Fit 2×2 braces to the frame, so you enhance the rigidity of the structure. Cut both ends of the braces at 45 degrees and fit them to the structure. Drill pilot holes and secure the braces into place with 2 1/2″ screws.
In addition, fit 2×2 braces to the front and back of the storage rack. Cut both ends of the braces at 45 degrees and lock them into place with 2 1/2″ galvanized screws. Use a spirit level to make sure the posts are vertical and the racks horizontal.
Fill the holes with wood putty and then smooth the surface with 120-220 grit sandpaper. Apply a few coats of stain and then spar varnish, so you seal the wooden rack from water damage.
This is a  simple project anyone should be able to build in a few hours without much effort. Remember that you need to adjust the size of the components so they suit your particular own needs. You can stack at least three kayaks to the storage rack, so it uses the space quite efficiently.
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This woodworking project was about kayak storage rack plans free. If you want to see more outdoor plans, check out the rest of our step by step projects and follow the instructions to obtain a professional result.
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4 comments
How might you modify this for more than 3 Kayaks? Could you add another 2-sided level and make it for 5 Kayaks? (We own 4 kayaks and this would help us a great deal)
Thank You.
Yes, definitely you can do that. Just make sure you reinforce all the joints with cross braces and also use some metal L-brackets to add extra rigidity.
BSA Eagle Project. Can you assist?
Thank you
How can I help you?