Maximizing Longevity: The Benefits of Retread Tires for Commercial Fleets
You’ve likely encountered a commercial vehicle that uses retread tires. Roughly 90% of fleets in the U.S. and Canada use retread tires because they’re safe, long-lasting and cost-effective.
Find out how your fleet could benefit from using retread tires.
Retread Tires Are Cost-Effective
Next to fuel, tires are one of the biggest expenses for fleets. Retread tires reduce your overall operating costs and limit the need to purchase new tires. They offer the same level of performance for 60% to 70% of the price of new tires.
Retreading your tires allows you to reuse the casing and offset the initial purchase expense. Reusing the assets you own decreases the amount of money you’d otherwise put toward buying new tires.
Retread Tires are Safe and Sustainable
Commercial tires can be retreaded two to three times with a tire management program. Retread manufacturers implement a comprehensive process that includes several inspections to ensure the integrity of the final product. There are quality checks included to verify that the new tread adheres properly.
You can use retread tires for various applications, including long-haul, industrial and off-road jobs. Failure rates are often the same as new commercial tires so your drivers and operators will be safe on the job.
Retread Tires are Better for the Environment
Commercial retread tires use fewer resources than new tires. It only takes seven gallons of oil to manufacture a retread tire compared to 22 gallons for a new one. They also require less rubber and steel.
Retread tires reduce:
- Carbon dioxide emissions
- Pollution
- Natural resource extraction
- Water consumption
- Landfill mass
Tire rubber can be recycled for playgrounds, mulch, asphalt and turf.
Myths About Retread Tires
Here are some common misconceptions about retread tires:
They aren’t safe: Despite popular belief, retreads are just as safe as regular tires. Retread tires must meet strict standards and go through several inspections during the manufacturing process.
They wear faster than normal tires: Michelin retread tires wear down at the same rate as other commercial tires. The curing process ensures the new tread is securely adhered to the casing and doesn’t impact wear and tear.
They can’t withstand heat: As with any tire, heat buildup can negatively affect casing integrity, but retreads are not at a greater risk than regular tires. Heat buildup is often the result of underinflation.
Most of the rubber on the side of the highway is from retreads: The debris on the side of the road is usually from new tires. Underinflation is the main reason for blowouts.
How to Incorporate Retread Tires into Your Fleet
If you’re a fleet manager or owner, you’ll need to determine which tires require retreading and find a reliable manufacturer.
Pricing shouldn’t be the only factor you consider when searching for a retread facility. Check on the company’s experience and expertise and learn about their retread process. Tour the facility to gauge the quality of work.
Managing retread tires is similar to a typical tire maintenance program. They require casing monitoring, correct inflation and proper alignment. Avoid mixing tires and practice good driving habits to protect your them from excess wear and tear.
Get Retread Tires at Bauer Built
Make your tires go the extra mile with retreads. The Bauer Built difference is our nine-step process that produces high-quality retreads that optimize fleet efficiency and reduce operating costs. Find a location near you and schedule service.
Categories: Bauer Built Blog
