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How to Build a Canoe Storage Rack

How to Build a Canoe Storage Rack
Canoeing is a great recreational sport for the entire family. Many people start out by renting canoes until they gain proficiency and become familiar with the different types and makes of canoes. When the day comes that a canoe is purchased, the next step is to securely store the canoe to avoid damage to the investment. There are several options for storage, but building one is easy and can be mounted to the ceiling of a garage, carport or storage building.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:
  • 2-inch-by-4-inch lumber Wood eye bolts Chain Adjustable chain links Drill and bit Pliers Saw
  • 2-inch-by-4-inch lumber
  • Wood eye bolts
  • Chain
  • Adjustable chain links
  • Drill and bit
  • Pliers
  • Saw
Step 1
Locate the joists or wood beams running across the ceiling where the canoe rack will be mounted. If dry wall or another material covers the ceiling, locate the wood beams by using a stud finder or finding screws or nails as clues. You want about 4 feet between each supporting eye bolt.
Step 2
Mark at the center point of one joist and another about 4 feet across from the first point, at the nearest joist center point. Subtract 2 feet from the canoe's length, and make two more marks directly behind the first two. You should have four marks in a rectangle.
Step 3
Drill pilot holes using the wood eye bolts as a references. Screw the eye bolts in securely, making sure there is no play between the eye bolts and the joists. Use pliers to tighten the bolts if necessary.
Step 4
Open the adjustable links and place one on each eye bolt. The chain must be cut at time of purchase and needs to be long enough to allow the canoe to rest between the supports and ceiling. Attach one end of the chain into the adjustable link, and tighten securely. Repeat for the other three links.
Step 5
Cut two pieces of 2-inch-by-4-inch lumber 4 to 6 feet longer than the width of the eye bolts. Mark two locations on the lumber, making sure to keep the distance from the end equal on both sides. Drill a pilot hole, and insert eye bolts into each hole. Repeat the process for the other end of the support.
Step 6
Insert an adjustable link into the hanging end of the chain, lift the lumber and secure with the link. Repeat for the opposite side.

Tips & Warnings

 
There should be sufficient clearance beneath the canoe for walking or parking vehicles.
 
Use care when working with any type of sharp tools, and wear eye protection. Make sure the bolts and links are securely tightened to avoid potential damage and injury because of the canoe falling.

Article Written By Tara Dooley

Tara Dooley has written for various websites since 2008. She has worked as an accountant, after-school director and retail manager in various locations. Dooley holds a Bachelor of Science in business management and finance.

Write for Trails.com

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