Ever wondered what happens to your tires once they’re replaced? Most people assume they just get thrown away—but that’s far from the truth. Improper disposal of old tires can damage the environment, clog up landfills, and even pose health and fire risks. With millions of used tires generated each year, their afterlife matters more than most people realize.
In this article, we’ll discuss how a tires shop in Nashville handles old tires in safe, sustainable, and surprisingly creative ways.
Recycling
Tire shops often send old tires to specialized recycling centers where they are shredded into crumb rubber. This material is repurposed for playground surfaces, sports fields, road construction, and landscaping. Recycling reduces waste and prevents tires from filling landfills, which can cause environmental issues.
Recycling old tires keeps the environment cleaner and conserves resources by reducing the need for new raw materials. It’s a common and eco-friendly way tire shops handle used tires, giving them a second life in a useful, sustainable form.
Retreading
Retreading adds a new tread layer to old tires, mainly used on commercial trucks and buses, extending their life. Businesses save money and reduce waste by choosing retreaded tires, which perform well if done properly. This is ideal for tires with solid casings but worn treads.
Retreading benefits the environment and economy by cutting down premature tire disposal and lowering demand for new tire production, reducing energy use and pollution. Tire shops offering retreading promote sustainability and provide customers with a cost-effective option.
Reselling
Some gently used tires in good condition are inspected and resold by tire shops. These tires meet safety standards and still have enough tread for safe driving. Reselling helps budget-conscious drivers find reliable options without compromising safety.
By reselling tires, shops reduce waste and offer affordable alternatives to new tires, extending the life of many tires that would otherwise be discarded, supporting a sustainable approach to tire use.
Read More: How to Choose the Right Tires for Your Vehicle
Tire Fuel
Old tires that can’t be retreaded or recycled are sometimes used as tire-derived fuel (TDF) in industries like cement manufacturing or paper mills. Tires have high energy content and serve as an alternative fuel, replacing coal or traditional fuels.
While burning tires for fuel isn’t as eco-friendly as recycling, it prevents landfill waste and recovers some energy stored in the rubber. This provides a practical use for tires at the end of their physical life.
New Products
Materials from old tires are transformed into products like floor mats, shoe soles, sports tracks, and garden mulch. This upcycling reduces waste by giving tires a new purpose beyond their original use, cutting demand for new raw materials.
This shows that old tires often become part of everyday items, promoting a circular economy and lowering environmental impact.
Safe Disposal
When tires are too damaged to recycle, retread, or repurpose, tire shops use certified waste disposal services. These services ensure tires are disposed of following regulations to prevent illegal dumping, fires, or pollution.
Proper disposal is critical because improperly dumped tires can trap water, breed mosquitoes, or cause hard-to-control fires. Responsible tire shops prioritize safe disposal to protect the environment and community.
Looking for Reliable Tire Services in Nashville?
If your tires are worn or damaged, trying a DIY fix might not be the safest choice. At Tire One Nashville, our expert technicians provide reliable tire services in Nashville, ensuring a safe and durable solution. Whether you need a quick repair or a full tire replacement, we’re here to help.
Keep your vehicle safe and driving smoothly—contact us today to schedule your appointment!
