If you have an extra set of tires for your car, you’ll inevitably need to store them somewhere. However, improperly stored tires are at an increased risk of dry rotting. This happens when the rubber and other materials in the tire degrade and become hard and brittle, making them unsafe. Here are a few storage tips to ensure your tires stay in good condition while in storage.
Make sure they’re clean. Dirty tires are more prone to dry rotting. Consequently, ensure to clean the mud and debris off the surface of your tires using mild dish soap and water. Give your tires enough time to dry completely before putting them in storage.
Keep them out of direct sunlight. When exposed to direct sunlight, tires are far more likely to suffer from dry rotting. The UV rays penetrate the rubber, dry it out and eventually break down the rubber compounds. Therefore, keep your tires away from windows or cover them with a thick, sun-protectant tarp.
Wrap each one in an airtight bag. While some things in storage require airflow, tires do better when you seal them in plastic. The airtight space prevents oxygen from breaking down the rubber. Wrap each tire in a large garbage bag, specialty tire storage bag or vacuum-sealable plastic bag.
Store them at a constant temperature. Excessive heat, extreme cold and constant temperature swings can accelerate dry rotting. Therefore, it’s best to keep your tires indoors in a cool, dry space like a climate-controlled storage unit.
While you may have to pay a little extra for a climate-controlled storage unit, you’ll save money by not having to replace your tires prematurely.
CONTAINER STORAGE IN MILTON, GUELPH AND OAKVILLE
U-Need Storage has you covered if you need safe and convenient vehicle or RV storage. We have 12 storage facilities across the Greater Toronto Area, including Mississauga, Georgetown and Oakville. Our long-term, seasonal and month-to-month units come in various sizes and are ideal for storing belongings like tires and other large equipment. To snag your clean and well-ventilated self-storage unit, contact us today in Freelton and the surrounding areas.