Tyres, being made of rubber, are susceptible to environmental changes and therefore it makes sense that if you use winter tyres and need to store them away for the winter, that they are stored properly in order to protect your considerable investment. As winter tyres are also used as a safety feature, utmost care should be taken that summer storage does not perish, degrade or damage them in any way.

Firstly, it is unacceptable to store them in the open air, even under a protective cover. They should be allocated space in a dark, cool and most importantly, dry area which is well ventilated. The temperature should at no time exceed a normal, comfortable room temperature, and should also not be excessively cold.

Direct sunlight is the enemy of rubber, and should be avoided at all costs. Continuous changes of humidity or temperature in the air can also be detrimental, and any devices that generate ozone should be avoided in the storage room. Solvents and chemicals, fuel, lubricants and other paraphernalia associated with car ownership should also be stored elsewhere and there should be no pressure exerted on the tyres from stacking or storing things on top of them.

Tyres should be inflated to one bar for storage and if they have rims can be hung from ropes to avoid any pressure being exerted on the rubber from the rims. Tyres without rims should not be stacked, but rather lined up alongside each other and in an ideal world, turned once every four weeks or so to eliminate the possibility of flat spots. If you live near the coast, ensure that your storage area is free from the effects of salt degradation.

Winter tyres can be viewed as an unnecessary expense or a lifesaving necessity, depending on your viewpoint. But one fact is clear. If you do decide to use them, take care of them and they will take care of you.