The sun, the ozone layer, and other environmental elements all affect the life of a tire. Despite these factors, there are ways to extend the life of a tire by storing it correctly.
We are often asked about tire storage. Should it be stored vertically or horizontally? How to store unmounted versus mounted tires? What type of environment? The following tips will help narrow down your choices and get you started.
Ensure Proper Cleaning Before Storing
It’s essential to remove dirt, asphalt, and brake dust before storing. Dip a tire brush into the solution of mild dish soap and lukewarm water to clean each tire. If your tires are mounted (on wheels), clean the wheels also. Dry completely before storage, avoiding any tire dressing.
Airtight Plastic Bags
After cleaning, put each tire in its airtight plastic bag. It doesn’t have to be a specific tire bag, as lawn and leaf bags work well. Keep any moisture away from the bag, removing as much air as possible. Close the bag tightly with tape, which will help to reduce oil evaporation.
Store in a Cool, Dry Environment
Tires should be kept out of direct sunlight, and the sun’s ultraviolet and heat are detrimental to rubber.
A basement or climate-controlled area is ideal, whereas a standard garage, shed, or attic can undergo a wide scale of hot and cold temperatures, precipitation, and humidity. Make sure you stow your tires away from electric motors, furnaces, switches, and sump pumps because they are sources of ozone.
Storing Tires Mounted on Rims
Most tire owners first think of storing tires horizontally, like a stack of pancakes. While this might save space, it can cause damage. Tires mounted on rims are best stowed vertically so they don’t get deformities.
If that’s not possible to stow them vertically, rotate the tire’s position once a month to ensure they keep their shape.
To conserve space, you can hang them from tire hooks so that they don’t sit on the floor in your garage.
Storing Unmounted Tires
Unmounted tires can be put away horizontally or vertically. Keep in mind that storing them on tire hooks can cause the tires to sag. Like its counterpart, mounted tires, consider rotating your tires once a month and keep them from sitting on the ground.
Inflated or Deflated?
It is okay to store inflated tires, and there is no need to deflate them fully for long-term storage.
Storage Authority provides 24/7 self-storage room access so you can access your goods when it’s convenient for you. When storing your belongings, consider one of our storage units. Storage Authority keeps your health and safety always in mind. Visit our website, contact us, or call us at 262-676-9464.