Tire Storage Rack Systems: How to Maximize Space & Save Money.
In a previous article, I talked about why tire storage is important and shared a practical, step-by-step guide on how to store your tires properly.
But there’s more to the story. Tire maintenance is a key part of keeping your vehicle safe and your tires in top shape. And, as I’ve mentioned before, the way you store your tires can make a huge difference in their lifespan and performance.
That’s where Tire Storage Rack Systems come in. These systems are a great, space-saving solution that not only helps you preserve your tires but can also save you money down the road. Let’s take a closer look at why these systems are worth considering.
Why Tire Storage Rack Systems Matter
Those systems are designed to help you solve the common headaches that come with storing tires. They allow you to maximize your space, keep things organized, and ensure your tires are stored the right way. Typically, they consist of racks, shelves, or stands, and allow you to store tires either horizontally or vertically, making sure the weight is evenly distributed to prevent flat spots.
Horizontal or Vertical Storage?
Here’s where it gets important—whether you store your tires horizontally or vertically depends on whether they’re mounted on rims or not:
- Horizontally: If your tires aren’t mounted on rims, they should be stored horizontally, side by side. Don’t hang them, as that could cause them to deform. I recommend rotating them a bit every month to prevent flat spots.
- Vertically: If your tires are mounted on rims, store them vertically, stacking them one on top of the other. Just be sure not to place anything heavy on top, and reorganize them from time to time. Hanging them with rims is perfectly fine, too.
The Benefits of Using Tire Storage Rack Systems
- Space Optimization: One of the best things about tire rack systems is how much space they free up. If you’ve ever struggled to find room for your tires in the garage, this could be the game-changer you need. Wall-mounted racks especially can open up a lot of floor space.
- Preserving Tire Quality: Storing your tires properly helps prevent flat spots and ensures they keep their shape, so when you’re ready to put them back on your car, they’ll perform like they should. A tire storage rack system helps maintain the quality of your tires for the long haul.
- Easy Organization: Tire rack systems make it easy to keep things organized. No more digging through piles of tires—everything’s right where it should be. This is especially helpful if you have multiple sets, like summer and winter tires.
- Cost Savings: Storing your tires correctly reduces wear and tear, meaning you’ll need to replace them less often. Over time, investing in a good storage system can save you some serious money.
Choosing the Right Tire Rack System
When picking the right tire rack system, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Available Space: Measure the area where you want to install the rack. Make sure there’s enough room for it without cramping your space.
- Weight Capacity: Different racks can handle different amounts of weight. Check the weight limit of the system you’re considering to make sure it can handle your tires.
- Durability: Go for racks made from sturdy materials, like steel, to ensure they last a long time and provide good support.
- Installation Preferences: Some racks are wall-mounted, while others are freestanding. Choose the one that fits your setup best.
Keeping Your Tire Rack System in Shape
Taking care of both your rack system and the tires on it is key to getting the most out of your investment. Here are some simple tips:
- Clean the Rack: Over time, dust and debris can build up, so it’s a good idea to wipe down the rack regularly to keep it clean and prevent dirt from getting on your tires.
- Check for Damage: Every so often, inspect the rack for any signs of wear, rust, or damage. Fixing these issues early can help extend the life of the rack and keep your tires safe.
Maintaining Tires in Storage
- Rotate the Tires: Give your tires a slight rotation once a month to prevent flat spots.
- Check Tire Pressure: If your tires are mounted on rims, check the pressure every few months. Tires can lose pressure even in storage, so it’s a good idea to keep them properly inflated.
My Recommendations:
Here are some of my personal picks for storage rack systems available on Amazon. These options are highly rated for their durability, space efficiency, and ease of use—and they’re reasonably priced too.
1. MAXXHAUL Adjustable Wall Mount Tire Rack.
The MAXXHAUL Adjustable Wall Mount Tire Rack is a fantastic option if you’re looking to store your extra or seasonal tires in the garage. Made from sturdy steel, this rack can handle up to 300 pounds (136 kg) and is adjustable to fit tires up to 35 inches in diameter and 12 inches wide. Plus, it comes with ALL the mounting hardware you need for easy installation right on your wall.
Pros:
- Strong, durable steel construction.
- Supports up to 300 pounds (136 kg).
- Adjustable to fit tires up to 35 inches in diameter and 12 inches wide.
- Comes with mounting hardware for easy installation.
- Affordable and great value for the price.
- Highly rated by users.
Cons:
- Some assembly is required.
- Telescoping rods can be tricky to adjust.
- The rack isn’t as wide as some other models, so it may not work for larger tires.
If you’re looking for a sturdy, budget-friendly, and easy-to-install tire rack, the MAXXHAUL could be just what you need.
2. MAXXHAUL Tire Dolly
The MAXXHAUL Tire Dolly is a heavy-duty solution for moving tires, especially when they’re mounted on rims. Built from durable steel with a rust-resistant powder-coated finish, it can handle tires up to 300 pounds (136 kg). The dolly features four 5″ pneumatic tires for smooth movement and easy maneuverability, plus a locking mechanism to keep everything secure when not in use.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty steel construction with a rust-resistant finish.
- Smooth ride with four 5″ pneumatic tires.
- Locking mechanism to prevent rolling when not in use.
- Easy to assemble.
- Budget-friendly.
- Can be connected to another dolly for larger tire sets.
Cons:
- Can be a little tricky to maneuver in tight spaces.
- Heavier than some other tire dollies.
- A few users report it can feel a bit wobbly.
The MAXXHAUL Tire Dolly is an affordable, heavy-duty option for easily moving and storing tires that are already mounted on rims.
3. MICHELIN Tire Covers & Tire Bags – x4 Pack
The MICHELIN Tire Totes are a set of four durable tire covers designed to protect your tires while they’re in storage. Made from a tough, water-resistant vinyl material with UV protection, they keep your tires safe from the elements. Plus, the built-in handle makes carrying and stacking them a breeze when you’re not using them.
Pros:
- Tough, water-resistant, and UV-protected vinyl construction.
- Built-in handle for easy carrying.
- Stackable when not in use.
- Fits most passenger car tires.
- Budget-friendly option.
Cons:
- Not as thick or heavy-duty as some other tire covers.
- Some users mention they can be a bit tricky to put on and take off.
Overall, the MICHELIN Tire Totes are a great option if you want to protect your tires without spending a fortune. While they aren’t the thickest covers on the market, they’re an excellent value for the price.
What do you think? Are you using any of those? Tell me your opinion in the comments below! I’m looking forward to hearing from you.
Storing tires in the correct way is essential if you want to keep them in the best condition. It is interesting that tires that are with, or without rims, are stored differently.
I am confused about the description that you have for storing tires horizontally and vertically. Horizontal means that it is flat, and vertical that something is upright. So I would think that stacking tires on top of one another would be horizontally. Yet you say that when they are stacked on top of one another, it is vertically. Can you please clarify it.
You mention that the MAXXHAUL 70489 adjustable wall mount tire rack can hold up to 136 kg. But how many normal car tires would that be? Thank you.
Greetings Line!
Thanks for the feedback!
Horizontally means that the tires would be standing in one line >>> O O O O, just like they would stand on the rack.
Vertically means that the tires would be standing on top of one another.
Storing them the right way, depending if they are with or without rims is very important, so damages or flat spots would be avoided.
And about your other question, it depends on the tire. But let’s say they are common tires such as “195/65 R15”, which weight around 9kg (without rim). Doing the math, theoretically the raft can hold up to 15 tires, but practically it can hold 4 or 5, depending on their width. As long as there is a place on the rack, it can hold them without a problem.
If you have another question, we are here for you!