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Tire storage is an important factor in maximizing the life of your tires. While swapping out one set of tires for another is a challenge in itself, once your winter tires are removed, you still need to store them properly for the warm months ahead.

It’s important that your tires be properly stored when they’re not in use in order to make sure they’re ready to go when the temperature drops. Storing your winter tires is beneficial because:

• Improper storage can result in reduced life for your tires or end up making them unusable.
• If your tires are not stored properly heat, UV light, or direct sunlight can break down the rubber and cause them to become damaged.
• Tires become unstable and deformed and you won’t be able to use them.
• Proper storage prolongs the life of your tires.
• Outgassing — aged rubber loses volatile oils which makes tires crack or “dry-rot.”

Tire Storage Q&As

Can tires be stored outside?

Tires are best kept in a climate-controlled environment. Tires not only suffer damage from swings in temperature and humidity but also direct sunlight, which is harmful to the rubber.

How should tires be covered up for storage?

Tires should be sealed in airtight plastic bags, which protect them from changes in humidity. You can store your tires inside regular lawn and garden bags if you remove as much air as possible from them before placing the tires inside. Once the air is out of the bag, seal it up with tape, so that the tire doesn’t dry out.

How long can you keep tires in storage?

When tires are properly stored as recommended, they can have a very long shelf life. Proper storage and care can do wonders for increasing a tire’s lifespan.

The best place to store tires is in a cool, dry location, like a basement or garage. Properly storing your winter tires will help slow the process of tire wear and extend the life of your tires while in storage. Always have an expert checked your stored tires, before putting them back on your vehicle.