Kayak Rack – Free DIY Plans

This step by step diy project is about how to build a kayak rack. If you have several kayaks and you want to save space by storing them in an elegant manner, this is the solution for your needs. This rack is super sturdy, easy to build and it can accommodate 3 kayaks. In addition, I have added a shelf for the kayak storage stand, so you can organize smaller items. This project comes with everything you ever wanted to know, including a full Cut & Shopping list. You can easily Print or Save the plans as PDF file. PDF downloadable plans, for this project, with premium features in the Store.

You should always plan everything from the very beginning, in order to prevent costly mistakes and to save time. In most of the cases, you need a friend to give you a hand when assembling the wooden rack. Invest in high quality lumber and plywood, as the components will be exposed to bad weather. Protect the components with appropriate paint or stain.

There are a few tips that you should take into account, if you want to get a professional result. Therefore, take accurate measurements and use professional tools when making the cuts or when drilling pilot holes. Align the components at both ends and add waterproof glue to the joints, if you want to create a rigid structure.

Made from this plan

Kayak Rack – Free DIY Plans

Materials

• A – 2 pieces of 4×4 lumber – 72″ long POSTS
• B – 2 pieces of 4×4 lumber – 42 1/2″ long BASE
• B – 4 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 43 1/2″ long BASE
• C – 2 pieces of 4×4 lumber – 50″ long FRAME
• D – 8 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 40″ long SUPPORTS
• E – 4 pieces of 4×4 lumber – 16″ lumber BRACES
• G – 4 pieces of 4×4 lumber – 27″ lumber BRACES
• H – 1 piece of 1×8 lumber – 5 ft SHELF

• 6 pieces of 4×4 lumber – 8 ft
• 1 piece of 1×8 lumber – 6 ft
• 6 pieces of 2×6 lumber – 8 ft
• construction glue
• stain, wood filler
• 1 5/8″ screws, 3 1/2″ screws
• 2 1/2″ pocket holes
• 7″ carriage bolts

Tools

• Safety gloves, glasses
• Miter saw, jigsaw
• Pocket Hole Jig
• Chalk line, tape measure, spirit level, carpentry pencil
• Drill machinery and drill bits

Time

• One Week

Related

• Porch swing plans
• Arbor swing plans

Build a Kayak Rack Plans

Assembling the sides of the kayak rack

The first step of the project is to build the sides for the kayak rack. Cut the components from 4×4 lumber as shown in the diagram. Align the edges flush and make sure the corners are square. Add construction glue to the joint and insert 2 1/2″ screws.

Assembling the frame of the kayak stand

Next, assemble the kayak rack. Join the two side frames for the rack by attaching the horizontal supports. Drill pocket holes at both ends of the supports and insert 2 1/2″ screws into the vertical components. Add glue to the joints and check if the corners are square.

Base beams

Use 2×6 lumber for the base of the rack. Make a decorative cut to one end of the beam. Smooth the edges with sandpaper.

Attaching the base beams

Attach the beams to the base of the kayak. Align the edges flush and add construction glue to the joints. Drill pilot holes through the beams and insert 3 1/2″ screws on both sides.

Supports

Use 2×6 lumber for the supports. Make a 15 degree cut to one end of the supports. Make a decorative cut to the opposite end. Smooth the edges with sandpaper.

Attaching the supports for the kayaks

Fit the supports to the vertical posts. Clamp the supports to the posts after aligning the edges flush. Drill pilot holes through the supports and through the post. Insert 7″ carriage bolts to lock the supports into place. Use 2 bolts for each joint.

Braces for the kayak supports

Use 4×4 lumber for the braces. Make 45 degree cuts at one end of the brace and a 60 degree cut at the other end. Fit the brace to the rack, drill pilot holes and insert 3 1/2″ screws to lock them into place tightly.

Braces for the kayak rack

Use 4×4 lumber for the braces. Make 45 degree cuts at both ends of the braces and attach them to the back frame of the kayak rack. Make sure the corners are square and align the edges flush. Drill pilot holes and insert 3 1/2″ screws to lock the braces into place tightly.

Fitting the top slat

Fit a piece of 1×8 lumber to the top of the kayak rack. Center the slat into place and align it to the back of the rack. Drill pilot holes and insert 1 5/8″ screws to lock it into place tightly.

Kayak rack plans – Wood stand

The top slat is designed for storage. You can use it as a shelf for storing small items. I like to make the most of my designs, so every space needs to be used.

How to build a kayak rack

You can fit the kayak rack against a wall to save space. In addition, you can use a few lag screws to lock the vertical posts to the wall framing. If you are already here, you might as well take a look over my free set of plans for this A-frame ladder stand.

Kayak rack plans

Last but not least, we recommend you to take care of the finishing touches. In order to get a professional result, fill the holes and the gaps with wood filler and let it dry out for a few hours. Check if there are protruding screws and fix this issue, if necessary. All that is left to do is choose that amazing view so you can enjoy this swing at its true value.

If you want to download the plans. just click on the GET PDF PLANS button bellow.

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