How to Store Tyres During the African Off-Season: Best Practices

Tyres are a significant investment — and in agriculture, mining, and construction, they often sit idle between seasons or projects. But parking your machines isn’t the same as protecting your tyres. In Africa’s extreme climates, improper storage can degrade rubber faster than field use.

Whether you're storing spares or keeping seasonal machinery off the road, proper off-season storage extends tyre lifespan, prevents cracking, and ensures your equipment is ready when you need it.

How to Store Tyres Safely in African Conditions

Step 1: Clean Tyres Thoroughly Before Storage

Remove all:

• Mud, stones, and plant debris

• Oil, grease, or chemical residue

• Sharp objects embedded in treads

Use mild soap and water. Dry completely before storing. Dirt left on tyres can trap moisture and accelerate rot.

Step 2: Store Tyres in a Cool, Dry, Covered Area

Avoid:

• Direct sunlight (UV degrades rubber)

• Rain or high humidity (encourages cracking and corrosion)

• Temperature extremes

If you don't have an indoor facility:

• Use UV-resistant covers or tarps

• Keep tyres off the ground using wooden pallets or steel racks

• Ventilate enclosed areas to prevent mould or condensation

Step 3: Position Tyres to Avoid Distortion

• Unmounted tyres: Store upright (vertical), not stacked. Rotate monthly.

• Mounted on rims: Reduce inflation to the minimum safe level. Elevate equipment or rotate wheels every few weeks to avoid flat spots.

• Stacked tyres: If you must stack, don’t pile more than 4 high, and alternate the position every few weeks.

Step 4: Keep Tyres Away from Chemicals and Ozone Sources

Rubber reacts with:

• Electric motors

• Batteries

• Solvents and fuels

• Welding or battery charging equipment

These create ozone or vapour that accelerates rubber degradation. Store tyres away from any machinery that may emit gases or sparks.

Step 5: Label, Rotate, and Inspect Stored Tyres

Even stored tyres age. Best practices include:

• Labelling by date and type (e.g., front/rear, implement, brand)

• Inspecting for cracks or swelling before re-mounting

• Rotating stock: oldest tyres used first

• Keeping an inventory of sizes and usage history

This is especially useful for mixed equipment fleets with different tyre types.

FAQ: Tyre Storage for African Operators

1. Can tyres be stored outdoors?

Yes, but they must be covered and protected from sun, rain, and ground moisture. Elevation and shade are essential.

2. How long can tyres be stored?

Properly stored tyres can last 4–6 years unused, but regular checks are needed. Heat and sunlight accelerate ageing.

3. Should tyres be inflated in storage?

If still mounted, reduce pressure but don’t deflate entirely. If unmounted, no inflation is needed.

4. What’s the risk of not storing tyres correctly?

UV damage, dry rot, flat-spotting, and chemical degradation can shorten tyre life by years — even before the tyre sees the road.

5. Can Tyres Without Borders advise on storage gear?

Yes. We offer guidance on tyre racks, covers, pressure recommendations and rotation schedules to match your fleet and local climate.

Keep Your Tyres in Shape During Downtime

Storage might seem passive, but it's one of the most important things you can do to protect tyre value. With heat, moisture and time working against you, proactive steps pay off.

By following these guidelines, you can:

• Add 20–30% to tyre life

• Avoid costly surprise failures

• Ensure readiness for harvest, haul or hire at a moment’s notice

Reach out to Tyres Without Borders for expert help setting up your tyre storage system, selecting seasonal tyres, or preparing for your next cycle of operations.