Why UV-Resistant Covers Are a Must for Summer

As the summer months arrive, they bring not only sunny drives and road trips but also heightened risks for your vehicle, particularly the spare tire. Often overlooked and exposed on the back of SUVs, RVs, and trailers, spare tires endure relentless sun and heat. High temperatures and UV radiation can weaken rubber, increase air pressure, and significantly shorten tire life.

One straightforward solution stands out: a UV-resistant spare tire cover. In this article, we will delve into why UV protection matters, how to select the right cover, and how proper care can extend your spare tire’s durability and performance.

What Are UV-Resistant Tire Covers and Why Are They Important?

Spare tires are typically left uncovered or minimally protected despite facing some of the harshest environmental conditions. UV-resistant covers serve as protective armor, shielding the rubber from sunlight, moisture, heat, and airborne pollutants. They are not merely accessories; they represent a practical investment in tire longevity and vehicle safety.

How Do UV-Resistant Covers Work?

UV-resistant covers utilize materials specially designed to reflect or absorb ultraviolet rays before they reach the tire’s surface. By blocking this radiation, the cover prevents the rubber from drying out, cracking, and weakening over time. The cover also reduces surface temperatures, helping to prevent internal air pressure fluctuations that occur when heat builds up.

The result is a tire that remains structurally sound, properly inflated, and visually intact. If you ever need to use your spare on a hot summer day, that kind of readiness is a game-changer.

Material Options for UV Protection

Most high-quality UV slipcovers are made using vinyl or polyester, often with added UV inhibitors. Vinyl offers robust weather protection and water resistance, making it ideal for exposed locations. Polyester is valued for its lightweight nature and ease of handling. 

Canvas is another option known for its strength and classic appearance, though it benefits from additional UV coatings. Niche models may even incorporate reflective elements to bounce back more sunlight and reduce thermal absorption.

Companies like Boomco, known for their spare tire cover craftsmanship, offer a variety of materials and designs tailored to different climates and vehicle types.

The performance of your cover is largely dependent on the material’s quality and durability. Opting for a cover that matches your climate and exposure conditions helps ensure maximum lifespan.

How Does Summer Heat Affect Spare Tires?

While we often worry about the tires touching the ground, the spare deserves just as much attention—especially in summer. Hot weather and UV rays are silent but significant destroyers of tire integrity.

Risks of Exposure Without a Cover

Tire pressure behaves differently in heat. As temperatures rise, the air inside your spare tire expands, often pushing pressure beyond recommended limits. This can set the stage for interior damage or even a blowout, especially if the spare is used in an emergency.

But it’s not just about air pressure. The rubber compound that makes up a tire is vulnerable to chemical breakdown when exposed to UV light. Without a cover, the tread and sidewalls can begin to crack, fade, or even peel. These micro-cracks, commonly called dry rot, signify irreversible damage and a dramatic loss in strength.

Spare tires don’t benefit from the same rotational wear as your main four tires. When left stationary in harsh sunlight, they age unevenly and often more rapidly than the ones actually on the road.

How to Choose the Right UV-Resistant Cover for Your Spare Tire

The market offers a wide range of covers, but not all will suit your tire—or your climate. That’s why you shouldn’t just pick the first cover that looks good online.

Start by checking the spare tire’s exact size. You’ll usually find this number on the sidewall of the tire in a format like “P235/75R15.” The proper cover should fit snugly—not overly tight but not loose enough to flap in the wind. Inconsistent fitting can compromise protection and reduce the lifespan of the cover itself.

Material also matters. Vinyl tends to be a top pick for complete weatherproofing. If you’re in a drier climate, lighter polyester could do the trick. Some covers include fleece or inner padding to prevent scratches on alloy wheels or painted surfaces.

Adjustability might be a bonus to consider. Elastic hems, drawcords, or buckles can help keep the cover firmly in place. Keep aesthetics in mind, too. A clean, well-designed cover often enhances the appearance of your vehicle—an underrated, but welcome, benefit.

Brands like Boomco even offer painted-to-match hard shell covers that blend seamlessly with your vehicle’s factory finish—proof that function and design can go hand in hand.

Installation and Maintenance of UV-Resistant Covers

Buying the right cover is only half the equation. Installing it correctly and maintaining it well ensures you get the full benefits.

How to Install a Cover Properly

To install the cover, begin by aligning it with the top of the tire. Pull it downward evenly, ensuring it remains centered. If your cover includes fasteners or elastic edges, tighten them as needed for a secure fit. A properly fitted cover should feel taut but not strained—tight enough to stay in place during wind or driving movement.

Before installing, it’s ideal to clean the tire with a damp cloth. This removes surface grime that could create abrasiveness under the cover or affect how firmly it fits.

Keeping It Clean and Functional

Over time, dirt, dust, and environmental buildup can affect the cover’s performance. Routine cleaning with mild soap and water helps preserve its protective qualities. Avoid bleach or petroleum-based cleaners, as these can degrade UV coatings.

Inspect the cover regularly for signs of fading, cracking, or loose stitching. If any appear, it may be time to replace it. Also, make sure fasteners and elastic seams stay functional, as these ensure full coverage and a tight fit.

When not in use—perhaps during winter storage—fold the cover neatly and store it in a shaded, dry area. Doing so protects the material from premature aging, even when it’s off-duty.

Cost and Availability of UV-Resistant Covers

Prices for UV-resistant covers can vary widely, but most quality options fall within a reasonable range. Affordable models made from basic polyester or vinyl start around $20. Higher-end covers made from thick canvas or equipped with custom designs can run $80 or more.

Premium models often come from reputable manufacturers that specialize in tire protection. Brands trusted by automakers—like Boomco, which produces covers for vehicles such as Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco—charge more, but you’re also paying for tested materials, precision fit, and U.S.-based craftsmanship.

Whether you prefer buying online or at a local auto shop, UV-resistant tire covers are easy to find. Online stores provide plenty of sizing tools and customer reviews, making selection simpler. In-store retailers often have staff to offer fitting advice, which is especially helpful for custom or oversized tire needs.

If you’re selective, you can find a product that fits your budget, climate, and style—without compromising on protection.

Protecting What You May Rely On Most

Spare tires are like emergency plans—you hope you never need them, but when you do, they must work without fail. That’s why shielding your spare from the stress of summer heat and UV rays is more than just a good idea—it’s a form of preparedness.

UV-resistant covers are a proven, affordable, and low-effort way to preserve tire integrity. From material selection to proper installation, a little care goes a long way. Give your spare tire the same protection you would your main four—it deserves to be ready whenever you call on it.

Don't let the sun take a toll on your spare tire this summer. Explore Boomerang's premium UV-resistant covers, designed to keep your tires in top condition. With over 25 years of expertise and trusted by major manufacturers like Ford and GM, our USA-made covers offer unmatched protection and style. Visit our store today and give your vehicle the care it deserves!