If you swap between summer and winter tires, you're spending good money on two sets of rubber. Proper storage protects that investment and ensures your off-season tires are in perfect condition when you need them again. Improper storage can cause tires to degrade, develop flat spots, or suffer cosmetic damage that shortens their useful life. Here's how to do it right.
Before storing tires, clean them thoroughly. Use soap and water to remove brake dust, road grime, and any chemical residue. Avoid tire dressing products, as many contain petroleum-based solvents that can actually accelerate rubber degradation during storage. Once clean, allow the tires to dry completely before putting them away. If the tires are mounted on wheels, inflate them to the manufacturer's recommended pressure. Some experts suggest slightly overinflating stored tires by five to ten PSI to compensate for gradual pressure loss during storage, but never exceed the maximum pressure rating on the tire sidewall.
Storage location matters enormously. The ideal environment is a cool, dry, climate-controlled space out of direct sunlight. Garages, basements, and climate-controlled storage units work well. Avoid areas with extreme temperature fluctuations, high humidity, or exposure to chemicals like solvents, fuels, or oils. Ozone is particularly damaging to rubber, so keep tires away from electric motors, furnaces, welders, and other equipment that generates ozone. Ultraviolet light from sunlight breaks down rubber compounds, so if your storage area has windows, cover the tires or keep them away from sun exposure.
The physical orientation of stored tires depends on whether they're mounted on wheels or not. Tires mounted on wheels should be stored either stacked horizontally on a flat surface or hung from tire hooks through the center of the wheel. Hanging is preferred because it prevents the weight of stacked tires from creating flat spots on the bottom tire. Unmounted tires should be stored standing upright, not stacked. Standing upright prevents deformation of the beads and sidewalls. If storing unmounted tires for an extended period, rotate their position every month or so to prevent flat spots from developing at the contact point with the floor.
Tire storage bags provide an extra layer of protection against ozone, humidity, and contaminants. Large, opaque plastic bags work well, though purpose-made tire totes are more durable and often include handles for easy transport. Squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing the bag to reduce ozone exposure. Label each tire with its wheel position so you can return it to the correct location or rotate positions during the next seasonal swap. With proper storage, your off-season tires will be ready to deliver full performance when the seasons change. And when it's time for new seasonal tires, Ship.Tires carries every winter and summer option you need, delivered right to your door.