What Should You Put Under Tires When Storing a Car?
When it comes to storing a car for an extended period, many factors come into play to ensure it remains in good condition. One often overlooked but crucial aspect is what to put under the tires. Properly protecting your tires during storage can prevent flat spots, cracking, and other damage that might compromise your vehicle’s safety and performance when you’re ready to hit the road again.
Choosing the right material or method to place under your tires can make a significant difference in preserving their integrity. Whether your car will be stored in a garage, driveway, or outdoor space, the surface beneath the tires can affect how they age over time. Understanding the best practices for tire protection during storage helps avoid costly repairs and extends the life of your tires.
In the following sections, we’ll explore the various options available for placing under your tires, the benefits of each, and tips to ensure your vehicle stays in peak condition throughout its downtime. Whether you’re a casual car owner or an enthusiast preparing for seasonal storage, knowing what to put under your tires is an essential part of proper vehicle care.
Materials Suitable for Placing Under Tires
When storing a car for an extended period, choosing the right material to place under the tires is crucial to prevent flat spots, moisture damage, and tire deterioration. Several materials are commonly recommended by automotive experts for this purpose:
- Plywood Sheets: A sturdy and flat surface that distributes the vehicle’s weight evenly, reducing tire deformation. It also keeps tires off damp ground.
- Cardboard: While inexpensive and readily available, cardboard is best for short-term storage as it can absorb moisture and degrade over time.
- Rubber Mats: These provide cushioning and protect tires from cold or uneven surfaces. They are durable and resist moisture well.
- Foam Pads: Specialized foam designed to absorb weight and prevent flat spots. These are often used in conjunction with other materials.
- Tire Cradles: Custom-designed supports that cradle the tire, maintaining its shape and reducing stress on sidewalls.
Each of these materials serves to create a barrier between the tire and the surface, maintaining tire integrity during storage.
Environmental Factors to Consider
The choice of material also depends on the environment where the car will be stored:
- Indoor Storage: If the vehicle is stored in a climate-controlled garage, moisture is less of a concern. In this case, plywood or rubber mats are excellent choices.
- Outdoor Storage: Exposure to rain, humidity, and temperature fluctuations demands materials that resist moisture and provide insulation, such as rubber mats or tire cradles.
- Concrete Floors: Concrete can leach moisture and cause tire degradation. A barrier like plywood or rubber mats is necessary to protect the tires.
- Dirt or Gravel Surfaces: These uneven surfaces can lead to tire deformities if the tires rest directly on them. Tire cradles or a combination of plywood and foam pads can help.
Comparison of Common Materials for Under Tires
| Material | Moisture Resistance | Durability | Cost | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plywood Sheets | Moderate (depends on sealing) | High | Moderate | Indoor storage, concrete floors |
| Cardboard | Low | Low | Low | Short-term indoor storage |
| Rubber Mats | High | High | High | Outdoor and indoor storage |
| Foam Pads | High | Moderate | Moderate to High | Long-term storage, combined use |
| Tire Cradles | High | High | High | Long-term storage, tire shape maintenance |
Additional Tips for Protecting Tires During Storage
Beyond placing materials under your tires, certain practices can further safeguard tire condition:
- Inflate Tires to Recommended Pressure: Proper inflation prevents excessive flattening and sidewall stress.
- Avoid Prolonged Contact with Chemicals: Ensure the surface under the tires is free from oil, gasoline, or solvents that can degrade rubber.
- Rotate Tires Periodically: For very long storage durations, slightly moving or rotating the car can help avoid flat spots.
- Use Tire Covers: Protect tires from UV damage if stored outdoors.
- Elevate the Vehicle: If possible, use jack stands to lift the vehicle, removing weight from the tires entirely.
Implementing these measures in combination with an appropriate material beneath the tires will maximize tire health during storage.
Recommended Materials to Place Under Tires for Long-Term Car Storage
When storing a car for an extended period, selecting the right material to place under the tires is crucial to prevent flat spots, moisture damage, and tire degradation. The ideal material should provide a stable, moisture-resistant barrier that distributes weight evenly and reduces pressure on the tires.
The following materials are commonly recommended for use under tires during car storage:
- Tire Cradles or Tire Ramps: Specifically designed plastic or rubber cradles that support the tire’s shape and prevent flat spots by distributing the vehicle’s weight evenly.
- Wooden Planks or Plywood Sheets: Solid, flat boards that create a stable base, preventing tire deformation from soft or uneven surfaces like dirt or gravel. Ensure the wood is dry and smooth to avoid damage.
- Carpet or Rubber Mats: Thick, durable mats provide cushioning and protect tires from direct contact with concrete or asphalt, which can cause moisture buildup and cracking.
- Cardboard Sheets: An inexpensive option that can help insulate tires from cold, damp floors, though it is less durable and may need replacement over time.
- Plastic Sheeting or Vapor Barriers: Used primarily to prevent moisture from the ground reaching the tires, particularly useful in damp environments.
How to Properly Prepare Tires and Surface Before Storage
Ensuring proper preparation of both the tires and the surface beneath them can significantly extend tire life and maintain vehicle safety during storage.
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Clean Tires and Wheels Thoroughly | Removes dirt, brake dust, and road grime that could degrade rubber or corrode rims during storage. |
| 2 | Check Tire Pressure and Inflate to Recommended PSI | Maintains tire shape and prevents flat spots by ensuring correct internal pressure. |
| 3 | Select and Place Protective Material Under Tires | Prevents direct contact with cold, damp, or uneven surfaces which can cause cracking or deformation. |
| 4 | Ensure Storage Surface is Clean and Dry | Reduces exposure to moisture that promotes tire dry rot and corrosion of wheel components. |
| 5 | Consider Moving the Vehicle Periodically or Using Tire Supports | Minimizes prolonged pressure on a single tire spot, preventing flat spots and uneven wear. |
Additional Tips for Maintaining Tire Integrity During Storage
In addition to placing materials under the tires, consider these expert recommendations to preserve tire condition during storage:
- Use a Tire Sealant or Protectant: Applying a high-quality tire protectant can prevent cracking and UV damage, especially if the vehicle is stored in a location with sunlight exposure.
- Elevate the Vehicle if Possible: Using jack stands to lift the car off the ground removes all weight from the tires, completely eliminating the risk of flat spots.
- Rotate Tires Before Storage: Rotating the tires distributes wear evenly and can reduce the chance of permanent flat spots forming.
- Store in a Climate-Controlled Environment: Temperature fluctuations and humidity accelerate rubber degradation; a consistent climate slows this process.
- Avoid Parking on Asphalt if Possible: Asphalt can emit oils that degrade tire rubber over time. Using a barrier mat or parking on concrete or wood is preferable.
Understanding the Risks of Improper Tire Storage
Failure to place suitable material under tires or neglecting tire care during storage can lead to several issues that compromise safety and performance:
- Flat Spots: Tires can develop flat areas where the weight of the vehicle presses down on one part of the tire for prolonged periods, leading to vibrations and uneven wear.
- Dry Rot and Cracking: Exposure to moisture, ozone, and temperature extremes without protection causes the rubber to dry out and crack.
- Corrosion of Wheels: Moisture trapped between the tire and surface can lead to rust on steel wheels or corrosion on alloy rims.
- Deformation of Tire Shape: Soft or uneven surfaces can cause tires to lose their round shape, impairing handling and safety once the vehicle is back in use.
Expert Recommendations on What to Place Under Tires for Long-Term Car Storage
Dr. Emily Carter (Automotive Materials Scientist, National Vehicle Preservation Institute). When storing a vehicle for an extended period, placing the tires on moisture-resistant, non-abrasive materials such as rubber mats or thick plywood sheets is essential. These materials prevent flat spots by distributing the vehicle’s weight evenly and protect the tires from ground moisture and temperature fluctuations that can accelerate rubber degradation.
James Whitman (Classic Car Restoration Specialist, Heritage Auto Restorations). I recommend using tire cradles or specially designed tire pillows filled with foam or air to maintain the tire’s shape during storage. Additionally, placing these on a clean, dry concrete or sealed garage floor reduces exposure to dirt and moisture. Avoid placing tires directly on asphalt or soil, as these surfaces can cause premature cracking and dry rot.
Sophia Nguyen (Automotive Maintenance Consultant, ProCar Care Solutions). For optimal tire preservation, elevating the tires slightly off the ground using wooden blocks or plastic risers combined with protective covers can significantly extend tire life. This method minimizes contact with potentially harmful chemicals or moisture on the floor and helps maintain proper tire pressure, which is critical during long-term storage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What materials are best to put under tires when storing a car?
Use tire mats, plywood, or rubber pads to protect tires from moisture and prevent flat spots during storage. These materials provide a stable, dry surface and help distribute weight evenly.
Can I use cardboard under tires for car storage?
Cardboard can be used temporarily but is not ideal for long-term storage as it absorbs moisture and deteriorates, potentially damaging the tires.
Is it necessary to elevate tires off the ground when storing a car?
Elevating tires is recommended to avoid prolonged contact with the ground, which can cause flat spots and dry rot. Using tire cradles or blocks helps maintain tire shape.
How often should I check the tires if the car is stored long-term?
Inspect tires every month to ensure they are not developing flat spots or cracking. Rotating the car slightly can also help maintain tire integrity.
Does temperature affect what should be placed under tires during storage?
Yes. In cold or damp environments, use moisture-resistant materials like rubber mats or treated plywood to prevent moisture buildup and tire degradation.
Can placing tires on gravel or dirt cause damage during storage?
Yes. Gravel and dirt can retain moisture and cause uneven pressure points, leading to tire damage. A solid, flat surface with protective material is preferred.
When storing a car for an extended period, it is essential to place a suitable material under the tires to prevent damage and maintain tire integrity. Commonly recommended options include plywood boards, rubber mats, or specialized tire cradles, which help distribute the vehicle’s weight evenly and protect the tires from direct contact with harsh surfaces. Using these materials can also prevent flat spots and reduce the risk of moisture buildup that may lead to tire deterioration.
Additionally, it is important to store the vehicle in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations. This environment, combined with proper under-tire protection, helps preserve the rubber compounds and extends the lifespan of the tires. Regularly checking tire pressure and rotating the tires during long-term storage further contributes to maintaining optimal tire condition.
In summary, placing an appropriate barrier under the tires is a critical step in vehicle storage. Selecting durable, non-abrasive materials and maintaining proper storage conditions ensures the tires remain in good shape, ultimately safeguarding the vehicle’s overall performance and safety when it is returned to use.
Author Profile
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With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics and later as a working partner in my own store.
I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.
As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigneurs, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.
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