Whether you’re swapping out your winter tires for summer ones or storing a spare set for your trailer, knowing how to store them properly is a small task with significant long-term benefits. It’s easy to just stack them in a corner of the garage or leave them outside, but improper storage can lead to a host of problems. Tires are a major investment in your vehicle’s safety and performance, and taking a few simple steps can protect that investment for years to come.
When tires are stored incorrectly, they can develop dry rot, permanent flat spots, and sidewall cracking. These issues don’t just shorten the tire’s lifespan; they can compromise its structural integrity, making it unsafe to use when you eventually remount it. Learning How To Store Tires Correctly To Prevent Damage is about more than just tidiness—it’s about preserving the rubber compounds and internal structure so they perform like new when you need them again. Let’s walk through the best practices to keep your tires in top shape.
The Perfect Environment for Storing Your Tires
Where you choose to store your tires is the single most important factor. Tires are made of complex rubber compounds that react to their surroundings. The ideal storage location is cool, dry, and dark. Think of a clean, indoor space like a basement, a climate-controlled closet, or a dry section of your garage. The goal is to shield them from the elements that cause the most harm.
Three environmental enemies pose the biggest threat to stored tires. First is ozone, which is present in the air and can be emitted by electric motors (like those in furnaces or sump pumps). Ozone accelerates the aging process and causes cracking. Second is sunlight. The UV rays from direct sunlight break down the rubber, leading to fading and brittleness. Finally, moisture is a silent killer. A damp environment can promote corrosion on the steel belts inside the tire and lead to mildew, which weakens the rubber.
A Step-by-Step Guide on How To Store Tires Correctly To Prevent Damage
Before you even think about where your tires will live for the next few months, a little preparation goes a long way. Start by giving them a thorough cleaning. Use soap, water, and a stiff brush to remove any dirt, brake dust, or road grime. This isn’t just for appearances; embedded debris can slowly degrade the rubber. Make sure the tires are completely dry before moving to the next step.
Now, let’s talk about the actual storage methods. The best approach depends on whether you’re storing tires alone or tires mounted on wheels.
Storing Mounted Tires (on wheels)
If your tires are still mounted on their wheels, you have the easiest storage option. The wheel helps the tire maintain its shape. The best method is to stack them horizontally, one on top of the other. However, to prevent excessive pressure on the bottom tire, don’t stack them too high—four tires high is a safe maximum. Alternatively, you can hang them on a wall-mounted tire rack. If you must stand them upright, rotate them a quarter-turn every month to prevent flat spots from forming.
Storing Unmounted Tires
Storing loose tires requires a bit more care to prevent them from deforming. The recommended method is to store them upright on their tread, like they would be on a car. You can stand them side-by-side, but avoid leaning them against each other for long periods, as this can cause bending. Rotate them occasionally to relieve stress points. While it might be tempting, avoid stacking unmounted tires horizontally for long-term storage, as the weight can distort their shape and be difficult to correct.
What to Avoid When Storing Tires
Knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing the best practices. A few common mistakes can undo all your careful preparation. First, never store tires on black asphalt or other hot surfaces, especially outdoors. These surfaces absorb heat and can get extremely hot, “cooking” the rubber and accelerating aging. Second, avoid letting tires stand in pooled water or on constantly damp ground.
It’s also crucial to keep tires away from certain chemicals. Don’t place them near gasoline, oil, solvents, or cleaning fluids. These substances can break down the rubber compounds. Finally, never use a plastic bag that is not breathable as a tire cover. Trapping moisture inside a sealed bag creates a greenhouse effect that promotes mold and mildew. If you need to cover them, a breathable fabric cloth is a much better choice.
Getting Your Tires Ready for the Road Again
When the seasons change and it’s time to remount your stored tires, give them a quick inspection before they go on the vehicle. Look for any signs of cracking, deep cuts, or abnormal bulges. Check the air pressure, as it will likely have decreased over time. If you notice any significant damage or have concerns about the tire’s condition, it’s always best to have a professional at a tire shop take a look. A few minutes of inspection can provide peace of mind for miles of safe driving.
By following these straightforward steps, you can significantly extend the life of your tires and ensure they remain safe and reliable. A little bit of effort in storing them correctly protects your investment and keeps you safe on the road, season after season.