Where to get winter tires in Hamilton, Ontario?
Winter is a cold season, during which you need to drive with the utmost care for your safety and the safety of others. The various physical properties of the rubber used in car tires are highly dependent on the ambient temperature. At high temperatures, the rubber softens and begins to wear out too quickly. At low temperatures, the rubber begins to harden, as a result, the rubber loses its elasticity. As a result, the wheels lose traction on turns, the braking distance increases significantly, and the car can slide into a ditch. Nowadays, manufacturers have focused on the production of several types of tires that are most suitable for their active operation in certain climatic conditions.
Key characteristics of winter tires
Winter tires are designed for driving at low temperatures. Winter tires become softer in warm conditions and soon become unusable if you forget about the winter tire change. However, they do not become softer at low temperatures, driving on such tires is safe even in the most severe frost. You can install winter tires at an auto mechanic in Hamilton, where an experienced auto service specialist will quickly install the right tires on your car so that you can drive your car completely safe in the cold season.
Types of winter tires
The market offers a large number of affordable winter tires from different manufacturers, which are in different price segments. Depending on the material and composition of the rubber mixture, winter tires are divided into 4 types:
- Winter tires are made of natural rubber. The material has high flexibility and plasticity at low temperatures. It is very suitable for driving on an icy road, which gives the car good handling;
- Winter tires are made of synthetic rubber. A cheaper option. The braking distance is a little longer, and the grip on an icy road is less. This type of winter tire is better suited in regions with a moderate climate in the cold season;
- Winter tires that are made of carbon black or technical carbon. Both materials have high abrasion resistance. Such high-strength tires are made of materials that can withstand severe frosts and frequent temperature drops;
- Winter tires are made of silica. The most common material. Such winter tires are included in the budget, medium, and premium price categories. It is considered an alternative to other types of tires, as they provide increased wear resistance.
Other important additives are also added to the rubber mixture:
- Sulfur, which is a binder for polymers;
- Various natural resins and oils to maintain flexibility at extremely low temperatures of winter tire operation.
The properties of tires depend not only on the material from which they are made. The pattern of the tread, the structure of the frame, and the presence of spikes are important.
Winter tires – different types of drawings
Car winter tires are manufactured according to the following tread patterns:
- The symmetrical pattern of the protector is a universal option. It belongs to the budget and medium segments. Additional noises can be heard while driving in the city;
- Asymmetric tread pattern – used for comfortable driving on city roads. Belongs to the middle and premium segments;
- A directional tread pattern is the most reliable option. Effectively diverts liquid from the area of the contact point. Provides stability on icy, snowy roads.
It is important to consider different models with protectors in the three options listed following your needs and price segment.
Frame construction of winter tires
Winter tires differ from summer tires in their frame structure. For the comfort of the driver and the front passenger, as well as the safety of other road users, manufacturers provide tires with additional seals that are located on the sides of the tires. The material of increased density is also used for the manufacture of side parts of winter tires. The dense structure protects tires from damage when hitting an obstacle, and also increases overall wear resistance. In the conditions of winter roads, the compactness of the compact structure of winter tires is especially important. Some types of winter tires may have spikes – hard spikes designed to split the ice. Their presence can be beneficial or detrimental – it all depends on the condition of the road. On icy and snowy tracks, studded tires show excellent results, significantly shortening the braking distance and increasing car controllability. However, their use on dry roads has the opposite effect – the braking distance increases, and the risk of skidding increases.