Storing tires: how to do it right
Winter is slowly approaching, and as November draws closer, so does the time when we should start thinking about changing from summer to winter tires. It is important to fit the right tires in good time in order to be prepared for winter road conditions. At the same time, the question arises as to what to do with the summer tires. One option is to store the tires properly in order to preserve their service life and have them ready for use again next spring.
As a reminder: The legal winter tire obligation lasts from November 1 to April 15! By the way: according to the ÖAMTC, there is no obligation to change summer tires.
Since you absolutely have to change your car tires, it would be advantageous to know how best to store tires. By storing them correctly, you can be sure that your tires will be waiting for you in top condition in April and will survive a few more winters. Here are 7 tips to store and maintain your tires properly.
Tires: How to store
1. Store tires: first you have to clean them
It is important to clean your tires thoroughly before storing them, although many people are reluctant to do so. This action can have a significant impact on the life of the tires, as dust, dirt and debris can cause serious damage over long periods of time. Use a tire brush, detergent and water to thoroughly clean both the tires and the rims. Alternatively, you can also clean the tires mounted on the vehicle, depending on your personal preference. In any case, it is important that the tires are completely dry before storage to avoid possible moisture damage.
2. Pack your tires securely
It is best to pack your car tires in large, dark and airtight plastic bags. Before you seal the bags, you should try to squeeze out as much air as possible. Proper packaging will significantly reduce oil evaporation during storage.
3. Store tires in a dark place to prevent ageing
Dark colors absorb heat easily, which causes tires to age faster and wear out more quickly. It is therefore important to ensure suitable conditions when storing tires. This brings us to the next tip:
4. Store your tires in the right place
It is best never to leave the tires outside, even if they are wrapped in a protective cover as described above. A climate-controlled room is ideal for storing tires. Cellars, garages and sheds are not an ideal solution, as they are exposed to large fluctuations in temperature and humidity.
5. Avoid exposure to chemicals
The chemical ozone is by far the biggest problem in this case. Keep your tires away from machines that can produce ozone. This includes, for example, electric motors, ovens, compressors, sump pumps and many more. It is best to find out which machines you store together with your tires can generate these chemicals. That way you are on the safe side. In addition, the tires should not come into contact with other solvents, fuels and lubricants. These are just as harmful to the tires.
6. Use one of the three storage options for your winter tires
You basically have three options for storing your tires – upright, stacked or hanging. Storing tires upright is the gentlest method and therefore often the best choice. When stacking the tires, it is important to ensure that the stack is not too high in order to avoid tipping over and possible damage. In addition, the lower tires should not be subjected to too much stress, as they could otherwise lose their shape. Hanging the tires is also an option, but it is not practical for everyone and is a little more time-consuming. Special care must be taken here to ensure that only tires that have already been mounted are hung up to avoid deformation.
7. Note the following when storing your vehicle
If you want to store your car and not just the tires for a while, it is advisable to go for a short spin every now and then to take the pressure off the tires. Driving reduces the constant pressure of the vehicle’s weight and keeps the rubber compounds of the tires supple. When storing tires outdoors, it is also important to protect them from direct sunlight with a cover.
Bonus tip: Buy whitewall tires
If you are the proud owner of whitewall tires, we have another tip for you: White on white, black on black. When storing car tires, it is ideal to always stack the white and black sides of the whitewall tires next to each other. This method helps to keep the white areas of the tire spotless and clean, without much effort.
Car tire storage: Store tires now at STORE ROOM
The storage rooms at STORE ROOM naturally offer optimum conditions. From temperature and humidity to sun protection, everything is ideally regulated to allow your tires to spend the winter with a clear conscience. Benefit from flexible and convenient online booking. Choose one of three locations in Vienna and the surrounding area.
Follow these seven tips (plus the bonus tip) to significantly extend the life of your tires. If you look after and store your tires properly, you can save unnecessary costs in the future and won’t have to worry about new tires for a long time.