Did you know that Lloydminster gets on average nearly a meter of snow a year? Although Alberta does not require mandatory snow tires, many provinces do.
Many may opt for all-season tires, but is that really the safest choice for you and your family? This short guide will tell you why snow tires are the best option, how they work, and why you should get them this winter.
Keen on finding out if you should buy new tires? Then, keep reading to find out!
All-Seasons vs. Snow Tires
All-seasons are excellent at what they do. They perform well in climates that don't have the harsh winters and are a good year-round solution for those who have mild temperatures from season to season.
However, Canadians live in a harsh climate, both in the winter and in some parts, the summer; it may be better to get tires designed specifically for the road conditions we encounter daily.
While all-seasons offer some grip, they do not have the ruggedness required to handle deep snow and ice.
How Do Snow Tires Work?
Ruggedness is one factor that determines the performance of winter tires. The rubber compound that makes up a winter tire is designed to handle the toughest snowbanks.
The design of the rubber compound allows the tire to stay soft during the coldest temperatures. The softer tire allows the rubber to "grip" the cold asphalt and even the ice better than a harder rubber.
Another factor to consider is the treads of the tires. The deeper tread in snow tires allows for better control in snowy conditions. Additionally, winter tires also have something called "biting edges." These are small slits in the tread to provide an even better grip on the road, ice, or snow.
The biting edges work in such a way that it acts as a squeegee. It suctions water and snow off the road, and as the tire moves, it dispels the water.
Winterizing Your Vehicle
Prepping for winter is something that is on every Canadian to-do list. We put our house, wardrobe, and winter gear on that list. So if you are a new car owner or moved here from a warmer climate, you must add your car to that list.
Winterizing your car is a good idea all around, so when should you start? The best time for changing your tires is when temperatures are regularly at or below 7°C.
Driving in the Snow: Get New Tires Today!
The season is upon us. Don't let this opportunity slip through your finger, or else you might slip through a stop sign!
Getting snow tires is the first step in keeping you safe during the long winter months. Do you need some more information? Check-in with one of our associates to determine which tires are best for your needs!