When it gets hot outside, the last thing on most people’s minds is their tires. Hot weather brings challenges of A/C and pool parties, but did you know that it can also affect your tires? It’s estimated that for every 10 degrees F that the temperature raises, tire pressure will raise one pound. Along with the hot and flexible nature of tires, that one or two pounds of pressure can make a huge difference.
Your tires are made of rubber, as are all tires. Rubber is a thick, flexible material, that is designed to take a lot of punishment. It takes the friction from the road and the chemicals placed down onto our asphalts all winter long and then those tires get hot. As they get hot, the pounds of pressure add up to over-inflating the tire. A tire that is already hot, flexible, and introduced to road friction is capable of bursting. A blow out is dangerous; the hotter it gets outside, the more likely it is to happen.
So, what can you do about it?
The best way to prevent a blow-out due to over-inflated tires is to check the pressures often. Keep a tire gauge in your car and use it whenever the temperature fluctuates. If there is an unseasonably cool day, it might be a good idea to check your air pressure. Under-inflated tires can stress the walls of your tire and cause more damage.
Another quick check is to reach down and feel the tires. If they’re hot to the touch, it’s probably not a good idea to drive on them. Just sitting below your car shouldn’t make your tires so hot that they’re too hot to touch.
The biggest thing that can reduce your chances of a blow-out is to replace worn tires. Don’t just take our word for it either. Tires that have been worn thin are weaker and more likely to bust. If you live in an excessively hot area, it may even be a good idea to consider ‘Summer’ tires. These tires are specially designed to handle hot temperatures without blowing out.
Consider treating your tires. There are wax-based options for keeping your tires looking fresh while also protecting them from the heat. It’s a win-win!
DON’T underinflate your tires! Driving with less in the tire than is recommended can be just as bad as driving with more. It’s important that you find that balance. In the world of tires, Goldielocks had a point. Too much pressure and too little pressure are both bad for your tires in the long run.
Finally, and we understand if this one is the hardest tip to use, drive the speed limit. It’s simple mathematics: Lower speeds equal less friction which means less heat and a lower chance of blowout. It might not be as fun but arriving alive is always the best option.
For all your wheel and tire needs, we here at The Wheel and Tire Store are happy to help! Contact us any time at 1-(844)-367-5120