Simple Steps for Proper Tire Storage
Summer 2016 proved to be another scorcher, setting a new record high that won’t be beaten, at least until next year. But for now, a welcomed crispness cools the air as tree leaves change color and signal the start of autumn. With the new season comes college football, sweater weather, and pumpkin flavored treats. As we enjoy these few weeks of relief from extreme temperatures, we must remember winter is coming.
With winter looming, now is the time to store away wheeled equipment such as lawn mowers, tillers, tractors, garden wagons, small trailers. It’s also a good idea to swap in vehicle snow tires. But improper long term storage of tires can cause the formation of flat spots on treads and decrease tire service life. In order to ensure maximum performance and longevity of your tires, follow these helpful steps:
Clean them
It’s best to remove tires and let them cool if necessary. Then, using mild soap, water, and a tire brush, clean away all dirt, grime, and gunk. It’s also important to completely dry the tire before storage.
Wrap them
Wrap each tire in separate airtight plastic bags such as lawn or leaf bags. Then seal them with tape to prevent moisture from entering. Avoid using seasonal tire totes for storage as they are not airtight.
Store them
Store the tires in a cool, dry spot, placing them on a clean wooden slab rather than directly on the ground. Basements and other climate-controlled locations are better than garages, sheds, and attics that sometimes experience temperature changes, precipitation, and humidity. Take care to place tires away from sources of ozone including electric motors, furnaces, switches, and sump pumps. Try to store tires vertically as opposed to stacking them horizontally to decrease stress and distortion.
Inflate them (if necessary)
If you decide to keep tires on a vehicle, use blocks and check to ensure they stay properly inflated to the recommended PSI. Remove them from a vehicle completely if they won’t be in use for a long period of time. Long-term inactivity forces the tires to bear the weight of the vehicle, causing bald spots. If possible, drive on them every now and then to help flex the tires and maintain oil dispersion within the rubber compounds.
Check them
Perform visual checks of your tires, making sure to inspect for scoffs, punctures, and other damage. Also check the remaining tread life of your tires, and have a reputable tire service center reaffix them to your vehicle.
Replace them
Despite all the precautions you can take, tires will naturally age and should be discarded and replaced six years after their date of manufacture. As one of America’s largest commercial tire dealers and retread manufacturers, we at Bauer Built take tires seriously. By following the easy steps outlined above, you can confidently store your tires the proper way for maximum usable life and performance.
For more insights and tips on tire maintenance, safety and preparation for winter, visit us online.
Categories: Bauer Built Blog, Tire Care Tips
