What Is Tire Dry Rot?

When tires begin to form cracks and start to harden, that’s the beginning of dry rot. The cracks not only compromise the integrity of the tire but can also lead to air leaks. Dry rot can make tires respond differently to thermal expansion, so when the tire is under stress and building heat, it can burst or delaminate.

Dry rot tires are unsafe and need to be replaced, and there’s no reversal to the process. While maintenance can stave off dry rot, all tires eventually succumb to the process if regular wear doesn’t get to them first.

What Causes Tire Dry Rot?

Unfortunately, time is what primarily leads to dry rot tires, but there are other factors. The UV rays in sunlight are particularly hard on tire rubber, and the effect is especially pronounced in hot climates, though extreme cold and extreme heat can both be a factor.

Inactivity also plays a role. Rubber needs to move to stay pliable, as the oils and resins inside the tire can’t permeate and maintain softness if the tire is still.

Exposure to harsh chemicals is another cause, with certain substances such as motor oil and pool cleaning treatments causing rubber to harden and split. Ozone can also dry rot tires. Keep your tires away from devices such as welders, generators, battery chargers, and batteries, all of which emit ozone.

What Are the Signs of Dry Rot on Tires?

Become acquainted with these symptoms of dry rot tires.

Brittle Rubber

If the rubber seems hard and inflexible, there’s a good chance it’s dry-rotted. You may even be able to pick off large pieces with your bare fingers, or chunks may simply fall off.

Discoloration

Look for tires that have moved from black to a grayish hue. Essentially, the tires will look faded or bleached.

Cracks

This will be the most obvious visual clue. Examine the tire for cracks forming on the sidewall and tread.

Loss of Pressure

When tires dry rot, the cracks they form allow air to escape. If your tires are never at the right pressure, dry rotting could be the cause.

Poor Traction

Dry rot tires will have a hard time gripping the terrain since the rubber won’t flex as easily as it should. Handling may feel loose, and the tires will scramble for traction under power.

How to Prevent Dry Rot on Tires

You can dramatically extend the lifespan of your tires with a little care. Preventing dry rot tires isn’t complicated, but you may want to create a schedule to make sure you’re giving them the attention they need.

Regular Inspection

Once per month, inspect your tires closely. Look for changes in texture, cracking, discoloration, and bulges. Examine the treads and sidewalls on both sides of the tires. If you notice your vehicle is handling worse than it usually does, inspect the tires to see if they’re the cause before you suspect mechanical issues.

Proper Storage

When you park your vehicle, keep it out of direct sunlight. Park it in the shade, a covered storage area, a shed, or a barn. If none of these is possible, you may need to employ a cover for your tires that properly blocks the sun’s UV rays.

Be mindful of temperature, too. Tires do best in cool, dry locations between 55 and 59 degrees Fahrenheit. If you can keep your tires in a climate-controlled building, so much the better.

Before storing your tires, clean them with water and dish soap. Rub gently with a washcloth. Don’t add any harsh chemicals, as they can destroy tire rubber. Once you’re done washing your tires, rinse them with plain water.

Maintain Tire Health

Always make sure to inflate your tires to the manufacturer’s specified pressure. Driving with underinflated or deflated tires causes premature tread wear and excessive heat that can directly lead to cracking. Rotating the tires is also essential since the practice helps fight tire wear.

You also need to use your vehicle. Merely driving it will aid in preventing dry rot tires by keeping the rubber flexible.

If your tires are sitting in storage, take them out and move them periodically. Remember not to overload your tires, as excess weight adds stress and can quickly cause cracks to form. Whether your tires are mismatched with your vehicle or you’re using your vehicle to lift too much, you may need to invest in a new, more robust set of tires.

Use Protective Products

If you truly want to give your tires the longest possible life in storage, you can place them in dedicated tire storage bags. They completely block any grease, oil, or other chemicals from contacting the tires, and they prevent moisture from getting in, too.

If you want even more protection and assurance that no harmful chemicals or moisture are inside, you can get vacuum-sealable bags for your tires.

You can also add tire conditioners, which help prevent dry rot tires by maintaining the rubber’s elasticity. Make sure to research the cleaners and conditioners you use, as poor-quality ones can actually dry rot tires all on their own.

Why Buy Specialty Tires From Us?

Replacing tires can be a sizable investment. Some larger tires for industrial machines and tractors can be many thousands of dollars apiece! You want to know that the tires you’re purchasing will provide excellent performance and longevity, and the best way to do that is to partner with an experienced tire expert.

Tires4That has been a go-to tire provider since 1968, and we put those decades of institutional knowledge to use for our partners.

If you’re suffering from dry rot tires, contact us and speak to our tire experts. We’ll work with you to get replacements that meet your performance needs. Check out our online shop and browse our massive selection of tires for tractors, ATVs, industrial machinery, and more. Whatever you need tires for, turn to Tires4That!

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