When putting an RV in storage for the winter, one of the main things RVers need to understand is that their tires can deteriorate even while doing nothing.The waxes and chemicals used to protect the tire from effects of ozone and UV rays are much less effective and can degrade when the tire is immobile for a period of time. Particularly if exposed to the elements, the combination of UV rays and ozone can cause “dry rot” to appear in the form of cracks or crazing on the sidewalls, which makes the tires unsafe to use even if they are only a few years old and do not have many miles on them or worn treads.

To prevent such deterioration and potential flat spots from forming on the tires while in storage, here are a few things you can do.

• Regularly (at least once a month) check and maintain the tire pressure at recommended levels. Tires can lose up to two pounds of air pressure a month just standing still. One tire manufacturer even suggests bumping it up 25 percent, but in any case be sure and keep it below the rim manufacturer’s recommendation.

• Be sure whatever surface you are storing the RV on is firm, well-drained and reasonably level. Obviously an indoor garage works best, but not near electric motors, generators or other ozone creating sources.

• Use tire covers to protect them from UV rays.

• Completely unload the RV to put as little weight as possible on the tires.

• If stored outdoors, place a piece of wood between the ground and the tire, making sure the wood has a bigger footprint.

• If possible, take the RV out at least once every three months, but not if you are in extremely cold weather.

• A long-term solution is to put the RV up on blocks and remove the tires and wheels to a separate cool, dry space away from sunlight.

• Adjust the tire inflation, if needed, before putting the RV back in service.

For more on RV care and maintenance go to dicorproducts.com/resources/care/