My approach is as simple as these others. My garage ceiling is about 10 feet off the floor. I have one stationary resting point on one end for the stern to sit in. Could be a loop of rope or strap, but mine is a shelf of sorts. Then I have a line with a hook on it that attaches to the bow loop. This line runs through an eye hook in the ceiling so I can pull it like a block and tackle.

I carry the boat into the garage and hoist the stern end into my rest with the bow sitting on the floor. Then I hook the bow up to the line and hoist the bow up to the ceiling. I tie off to a cleat about shoulder height on the wall. For added security I then climb a step ladder and fix a strap under the middle of the kayak from one side to the other(port to starbord) . The ends of this strap are also attached to eye hooks in the ceiling. I think the cost of my hoist system would also be in the under $20 range.

Have fun and good luck.

Mike
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We have just moved into a new home without a basement, so am forced to store
: my canoe and kayak in the garage. I have a 12-foot ceiling and plenty of
: room but was wanting to get some advice on hoist systems. I looked at the
: one on canoehoist.com and that looked pretty nice but I have two craft and
: the $250 or so to get them off the floor could probably be better invested
: in a new paddle. You all are a handy lot- any suggestions for this handy
: cheapskate? ( I also have to have my shop in the garage now so will be
: making lots of mobile bases for my until-recently "stationary"
: power tools!) Thanks in advance for your as-usual good advice.

: Brent