The Docksider


Our Dock Mounted Kayak Lift Rack

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How to Store Your Kayak for the Off-Season

Wall Mount Conversion Kit

As kayaking season winds down, it’s important to take steps to properly store your kayak for the off-season. Improper storage can lead to damage that shortens the lifespan of your kayak, but with the right techniques, you’ll be able to enjoy your boat for many years to come. 

1. Avoid Exposure to Sunlight, Moisture, and Extreme Temperatures

Sunlight and UV rays can cause your kayak’s material to degrade, especially if it’s made of plastic. Likewise, extreme temperatures—whether hot or cold—can warp or crack the hull, while moisture can lead to mold and mildew. If possible, store your kayak in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

  • Indoor Storage

If you have room in your garage, shed, or basement, indoor storage is the best option. It protects your kayak from both weather and temperature extremes. Make sure the area is dry and ventilated to prevent condensation from building up around your kayak.

  • Outdoor Storage

If indoor storage isn’t an option, be sure to cover your kayak with a weather-resistant tarp. Ensure the tarp is loosely fitted to allow airflow and prevent mold.

2. Keep Your Kayak Off the Ground to Protect the Hull

Storing your kayak directly on the ground can cause the bottom of the boat (hull) to deform under its weight. Prolonged pressure can also lead to cracks over time.

Consider the Wall Mount Rack Kit to transform your Docksider Lift & Storage Rack for wintertime storage. This kit allows you to easily store your kayak inside a garage, shed, or cottage, away from harsh winter weather. Keeping your kayak off the ground and out of the elements helps extend its life and ensures it’s ready for action come spring.

3. Clean Your Kayak Thoroughly Before Storage

Dirt, grime, and saltwater can cause long-term damage to your kayak’s exterior if left untreated. Before storing your kayak for the winter, clean it with fresh water to remove any debris, especially if you’ve been paddling in saltwater environments.

Once clean, let your kayak dry completely to prevent moisture buildup during storage. Any lingering moisture can lead to mold, mildew, or rust on metal components, so be sure to store your kayak only when it’s fully dry.

4. Add UV Protection for Outdoor Storage

If you must store your kayak outside or in a spot that gets some sunlight (like near a window), applying a UV protectant can help shield it from the sun’s damaging rays. Many marine-grade UV protectants are designed to work on the materials used in kayaks, such as polyethylene, fiberglass, and even inflatable models.

Properly storing your kayak for the off-season is essential to maintaining its condition and performance. Using the Wall Mount Rack Kit, you can easily take your kayak from dockside to inside, keeping it safe from the winter weather. 

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Installing a Kayak Lift System: DockCraft Makes It Easy!

Docksider Kayak Lift System in action

If you’re an avid kayaker, you know that storing your kayak securely and conveniently can be challenging. Enter the Docksider, our innovative kayak lift system. The Docksider is designed to simplify the process of launching and storing your kayak, making your time on the water more enjoyable and less of a hassle. In this blog post, we will guide you through the installation and show you how easy it is to get started with the Docksider Kayak Lift and Dock Rack.

Why Choose the Docksider?

1. Convenience: The Docksider allows you to easily launch your kayak and retrieve it from the water when you’re done. No more struggling to lift your kayak out of the water or worrying about it being damaged during storage.

2. Durability: Made with rustproof marine-grade aluminum, the Docksider is designed to withstand all types of weather and provide long-lasting performance.

3. Easy to Use: The Docksider is easy to install with straightforward instructions and even easier to use. Effortlessly lift and lower your kayak into and out of the water each time.

4. Benefits:

– Free up valuable dock space!
– Lift with a fraction of the weight with the leverage design!
– Store your kayak right where you need it, on the side of your dock!

Mounting the Docksider:

You have two primary mounting options: the clamp-on mount and the bolt-on mount. Each has its advantages depending on your specific needs, dock type, and installation preferences.

Clamp-On Mount

The clamp-on mount is designed to attach to the edge of your dock without the need for drilling holes. It uses adjustable clamps to secure the lift system in place.

Advantages

1. Ease of Installation: The clamp-on mount is generally easier and quicker to install. It doesn’t require drilling, which can save time and effort.

2. Non-Permanent: Since no holes are drilled, this mount can be easily removed or repositioned without leaving permanent marks or damage on your dock.

3. Versatility: Ideal for those who may want to move the lift system between different docks or locations, or if you plan to upgrade or replace your dock in the future.

Considerations

1. Compatibility: Ensure your dock’s edge is suitable for a clamp-on system. The clamps need a stable and accessible edge to grip securely. From the top of your dock to the bottom of the side rail, the height can be no less than 2 ½ inches and no greater than 7 ½ inches.

2. Stability: While clamp-on mounts are secure, they might not be as secure as bolt-on mounts. It’s like killing a fly with a fly swatter compared to a sledgehammer. They both do the job!!

Bolt-On Mount

The bolt-on mount is a more permanent solution that involves drilling holes into your dock and securing the lift system with bolts. To remove, all you have to do is remove the 4 screws.

Considerations

1. Installation Effort: Installing a bolt-on mount requires more effort and tools, including drilling and precise measuring. It’s a fixed-position installation.

2. Dock Impact: Drilling holes in your dock will leave holes in your dock. If you plan to change the location of your lift system, you’ll need to drill new holes in the new mounting position.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Step 1: Choose the Perfect Location

Select a spot on your dock where the water is deep enough for your kayak and easily accessible. Ensure there is enough space to maneuver your kayak in and out of the lift system.

Step 2: Assemble the Docksider

Unpack your Docksider kit and review the included instruction manual. Assemble the main components of the lift system according to the provided diagrams. This typically involves attaching the lift arms and handle.

(If you are using the clamp-on mount, skip steps 3 & 4)

Step 3: Secure the Mounting Brackets

Using your measuring tape, mark the locations for the mounting brackets on your dock. Drill pilot holes for the screws, then securely fasten the brackets using the provided hardware. Ensure the brackets are level and aligned properly.

Step 4: Install the Lift System

Attach the Docksider Cradle Assembly to the mounted brackets (already installed). Slide the Clevis Pins on the Cradle Assembly into the designated slots of the mounting brackets.  Then secure the Cradle to the Mount with 2 more clevis pins provided. This step may require a helper to hold the system in place while you install it.

Step 5: Test the System

Before placing your kayak on the lift, test the Docksider by raising and lowering the cradle a few times. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure smooth operation.

With your Docksider Kayak Lift and Dock Rack installed, you are ready to enjoy hassle-free kayaking. Whether you are getting your kayak into the water or lifting it out after a day of paddling, Dockcraft makes it easy. Happy Kayaking!

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Caring for Your Kayak and Kayak Rack During the Winter Months

kayak storage

Fall is here and hopefully you are enjoying some of the beautiful fall days on your kayak. For those of us in colder climates, now is the time to start thinking about kayak storage.

Prepare Your Kayak Before Winter Storage

Before storing your kayak for the winter, it’s important to thoroughly clean it to remove any residue from use over time including sand, dirt, and salt. Simply using water and a mild soap will work to get your kayak clean. You can also use a protectant for your kayak that will help to shield UV rays. Be sure your kayak is completely dry before storing it away for the winter.

How to Store Your Kayak for the Winter

One of the most important storage recommendations for keeping your kayak like new is to hang it on a storage rack and not on the ground during the winter months. Ideally your kayak should be stored inside in a garage, shed, basement, or other storage area. It’s not necessary for the storage location to be warm, just so that the kayak is protected from the outside elements.

When storing your kayak on a rack, be sure to evenly distribute the weight on the rack so as not to damage the hull. If you don’t have a rack, avoid having the kayak sit on the floor as this can deform its shape. It’s best to lay it on its side or vertically on a wall.

If you do have to store your kayak outside, it’s best to keep it in a shaded area and where it will not get wet. You can protect your kayak outside by creating a covering for it, but don’t wrap the kayak in the cover too tight. Make sure there is room for air flow as moisture next to the kayak can cause mold. Be sure the cover is waterproof and UV resistant. Storing your kayak this way while outside will preserve it from the elements including moisture, sunlight and extreme heat and cold which can cause damage.

Whether storing your kayak inside or out, a cockpit cover is helpful to avoid having mice or other animals make a home out of it. You can even make your own cover using a garbage bag and tying it around to cover the cockpit. It’s also helpful to check on your kayak occasionally during the winter to make sure animals or insects have not gotten in.

The Docksider Kayak Lift & Rack

We recommend removing the Docksider kayak storage lift and rack from your dock before winter. Though the Docksider is made from architectural or aircraft grade aluminum, the cold and ice during the winter months can cause damage. The lift and rack can be easily detached from your dock by removing the bolt on or clamp on mount.

The Docksider can also be used as a wall mount rack to store your kayak. We offer a wall mount conversion kit so that you can store your Dockside Kayak Lift & Rack and your kayak in your garage, shed or other storage area. Using the Docksider to store your boat indoors will allow you to very easily lift the kayak up into storage position just as you do on the dock.