Winter Tire Storage Hacks: Save Space and Extend Life
Winter tires are essential for safe driving in Canada’s icy, snowy conditions — but once the season ends, proper storage becomes just as important as installation. How you store your tires during the off-season can dramatically affect their lifespan and performance. At Country Tire in Surrey, BC, we’ve helped Canadian drivers care for their tires for over 40 years, and we’ve learned a few proven tricks to help you save space and extend tire life.
Why Proper Tire Storage Matters
Tires may look tough, but their rubber compounds can break down over time if exposed to heat, sunlight, or moisture. Incorrect storage can lead to:
Cracking and dry rot
Flat spots from uneven pressure
Shortened tread life
Reduced performance when reinstalled
Taking a few simple steps to store your winter tires properly can add years to their life — and save you money down the road. For more on tire longevity, see How Long Do Tires Last? Essential Tire Lifespan Insights.
1. Clean Before You Store
Before you remove your winter tires, give them a thorough wash. Remove dirt, road salt, and brake dust, then let them dry completely. Salt buildup is especially damaging, as it can eat away at the rubber over time.
Pro Tip: Avoid tire dressings or shine products before storage — they can dry out the rubber instead of preserving it. Learn more in Tire Durability Tips for Surrey’s Unpredictable Weather.
2. Bag and Label Your Tires
Once clean and dry, place each tire in a large airtight plastic bag or dedicated tire storage bag. Remove as much air as possible to reduce oxidation. Label each tire (e.g., “Front Left,” “Rear Right”) so you can reinstall them in rotated positions next winter for even wear.
You can also check Tire Rotation Guide: Here’s How & When To Rotate Tires for expert rotation tips before reinstalling your set.
3. Choose the Right Storage Location
Tires should be stored in a cool, dry, and dark space — away from sunlight, furnaces, or electric motors that generate ozone. A basement, insulated garage, or professional tire storage facility is ideal.
If you’re tight on space, Country Tire offers safe, climate-controlled tire storage so you don’t have to clutter your home or garage. Check out our Hot Deals for seasonal offers on tire services and storage packages.
4. Stack or Stand Correctly
Without rims: Store tires vertically to prevent deformation.
With rims: Stack them horizontally and rotate the stack occasionally.
Avoid hanging tires on hooks unless they’re mounted on rims, as this can warp the shape.
Before putting your tires away, check out How to Store Your Winter Tires Properly to Extend Their Lifespan for a detailed storage breakdown.
5. Check Them Before Reuse
Before reinstalling your winter tires, inspect for cracks, uneven wear, or low tread depth. If you’re unsure, bring them to Country Tire for a quick 6-point inspection — we’ll make sure they’re road-ready.
You can also read Tire Tread Depth: How to Check and When to Replace to see if your set meets safety standards.
Why Country Tire Is Your Tire-Care Partner
With over four decades of experience, Country Tire doesn’t just sell and install tires — we help you maintain them season after season. When you buy new tires from us, you get:
2-year warranty on new tires
Free lifetime rotations and flat repairs
30-day return policy + $100 credit if you’re not satisfied
Expert alignment, balancing, and inspection services
Looking for budget-friendly options? Explore our used tires collection — many are nearly new and offer excellent performance. See Why More Drivers Are Choosing Used Tires in Surrey for more insight.
Ready to Store or Swap Your Tires?
Don’t let your winter tires take up precious space — or worse, deteriorate in the wrong conditions. Visit Country Tire at 6734 King George Blvd, Surrey, BC, call (604) 596-4444, or email sales@countrytire.ca to book your seasonal tire service.
We’ll help you store your tires the right way — stress-free, safe, and built to last. Before you go, check our blog for related reads like Spring Tire Change: When and Why to Switch from Winter Tires and Cold Weather and Tire Pressure: Causes, Risks, and Solutions to keep your tires performing year-round.