Author
Zespół Celtic
Changing tires is an annual ritual for every driver in Poland. In spring we put on summer tires, in autumn winter ones. But where do you store tires for the remaining half of the year? Garage? Basement? Balcony? In this guide, we explain how to properly store tires with and without rims so they last as long as possible.
Why is proper tire storage important?
Tires are one of the most expensive consumable parts of a car. A set of good winter tires costs 2000-6000 PLN, and premium brands even more. Improper storage can:
- Shorten tire life by up to 2-3 seasons
- Cause deformation and uneven wear
- Damage the tread through UV rays
- Destroy the rubber structure through moisture and extreme temperatures
How to store tires with rims?
Tires mounted on rims (aluminum or steel) should be stored differently than tires alone.
Rules for storing tires with rims:
- Stack horizontally – one on top of another, maximum 4 in a stack
- Reduce pressure to about 1.5 bar (half of normal pressure)
- Rotate the stack every 4-6 weeks to prevent deforming the bottom tire
- Or hang on hooks by the rim (best method if you have space)
What NOT to do:
❌ Don't stand tires with rims upright – they'll deform under their own weight ❌ Don't hang by the tread – only by the rim ❌ Don't stack more than 4 tires
How to store tires without rims?
Tires alone (without rims) require a completely different approach.
Rules for storing tires without rims:
- Stand upright – like books on a shelf
- Rotate 90° every 4-6 weeks
- Don't stack on top of each other – the weight will deform the sidewall
- Don't hang – without the rim, the tire will deform
Special tire racks
If you store tires regularly, consider buying a tire rack (~100-200 PLN). It keeps tires in the correct position and makes rotation easier.
Optimal tire storage conditions
Regardless of whether you have tires with or without rims, they need proper conditions:
Temperature
- Optimal: 10-25°C
- Acceptable: 0-35°C
- Avoid: freezing and overheating
Humidity
- Optimal: 50-70%
- Avoid: damp basements and wet garages
Light
- Store in darkness or in covers
- Avoid direct sunlight – UV destroys rubber
Chemicals
- Away from oils, solvents, gasoline
- Away from ozone sources (electric motors, welders)
Where to store tires? Comparison of options
| Place | Pros | Cons | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brick garage | Convenience, no cost | Often damp, extreme temperatures | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Basement | Stable temperature | High humidity, mold | ⭐⭐ |
| Balcony | No cost | Sun, rain, frost – worst option | ⭐ |
| Tire service | Professional conditions | Cost 150-300 PLN/season, limited access | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Self storage | Dry, 24/7 access, your own space | Cost ~170 PLN/month | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Why is self storage the best solution?
1. Ideal conditions
Our units at Celtic Self Storage are:
- Dry – controlled humidity
- Dark – no UV light access
- Ventilated – constant air circulation
- Secure – 24/7 monitoring
2. More than just tires
In a 2m² unit you can fit:
- 2 sets of tires (8 pcs.)
- Spare rims
- Car accessories
- Snow chains
- Tools
3. Access when you want
Unlike tire services, you can come to your unit anytime – morning before work, evening after hours, even on holidays.
4. Cost-effectiveness
Annual cost comparison:
| Solution | Annual cost |
|---|---|
| Tire service (2x change + storage) | 400-600 PLN |
| Self storage 2m² (6 months/year) | ~500 PLN |
| Self storage 2m² (full year, more items) | ~1000 PLN |
With self storage you get your own space for more than just tires!
Preparing tires for storage
Before putting tires away for the season:
1. Clean the tires
- Remove stones from the tread
- Wash off mud and road salt
- Dry thoroughly before packing
2. Check condition
- Assess tread depth (min. 4mm for winter, 1.6mm for summer)
- Check for cracks, bulges
- Mark position on the car (FL, FR, RL, RR) for rotation
3. Pack properly
- Use tire covers or bags
- Don't pack in airtight plastic (moisture condensation)
- Label: size, season, mileage
Celtic Self Storage – Your place for tires
We offer units from 2m² ideal for tire storage. Our locations:
Celtic Łomianki (North Warsaw)
- Address: ul. Kolejowa 348, Łomianki
- Phone: 882 565 475
- Ideal for: Bielany, Żoliborz, Białołęka, Tarchomin
Celtic Piaseczno (South Warsaw)
- Address: ul. Kineskopowa 1, Piaseczno
- Phone: 668 116 622
- Ideal for: Mokotów, Ursynów, Wilanów, Kabaty
Check how to get there: Celtic Łomianki | Celtic Piaseczno
Summary
Proper tire storage is an investment in their longevity. Remember:
- With rims: horizontally, max 4 in stack, or hung by rim
- Without rims: upright, rotate regularly
- Conditions: dry, dark, 10-25°C
Self storage is the best solution for drivers who value their tires and want unlimited access to them.
Have questions? Check our FAQ or contact us.
Take care of your tires – they'll take care of your safety on the road.
