Different Types of Tyre Treads and Their Uses

When you think of a tyre, all you can visualise is a black ring of rubber. But if you take a closer look, you will notice it is not a singular entity. Instead, all Car Tyres Birmingham consist of two parts – a body and a tread. The former contains the air while the latter adheres to the pavement. Thus, tyre treads are significant in the functioning of a vehicle.

Parts of a Tyre Tread:

But different models of tyres possess different treads. Each tread consists of four parts – ribs, grooves, sipes, and blocks. Varying the design of one or more of them generates a unique tread pattern. Before we move on to learn about the different types of tread patterns, let us first define each tread component.

• Ribs – These form the raised parts of a tread and are made from blocks

• Grooves – These are the deep channels that run from one end of the tread to the other.

• Tread blocks – They stick out from the tread and stay in direct contact with the road.

• Sipes – These are fine channels running across the tread blocks.

Types of Tyre Treads:

The design of a tyre tread determines how it interacts with the road. Some tread patterns work better in one set of road conditions while others do not. In this article, we have described the three most popular types of treads.

Symmetric Tread Pattern: Treads having a symmetrical pattern are most well-known among drivers. They are typically used in standard cars and SUVs but not so much in high-performance vehicles. As apparent from its name, this type of tread is symmetrical about the midline. It is covered in ribs and tread blocks. These elements make the tyres and, in turn, the vehicle more stable during rides. Aside from providing optimal performance, tyres with symmetrical treads also spin effectively. The amount of rolling friction they generate is also relatively low. So, they are quieter, more fuel-efficient, and long-lasting. However, there is one downside to using these tyres. They do not work well on wet roads.

Directional Tread Pattern: In this type of tread, grooves on either side of the midline meet at an angle. Thus, they form an arrowhead or a V shape. They run from the extremes to the centre. This design allows the tyres containing directional treads to run safely on wet roads. That is because the grooves dispel enough water to help avoid hydroplaning. This pattern also improves their grip, making them suitable for different unfavourable road conditions. Since they work well in mud and snow-filled areas, they are most commonly found in winter, all-season, and all-terrain tyres. For these tyres, rotation is forbidden along the lateral axis. But you can spin them vertically, all while maintaining the correct orientation. To make sure you fit them in the proper direction, check the tyre sidewall for markers. Otherwise, they will fail to work.

Asymmetric Tread Pattern: In the treads of this type, the patterns on either side of the midline are dissimilar. Thus, these tyres lacking symmetry have a unique look to them. But style points are not their only contribution. Tyres having asymmetric treads are super functional. The inner part of these treads contains several grooves which help eliminate water. The outer part, consisting of several tread blocks, helps the tyres adhere to the pavement. Tyres possessing asymmetric treads excel under dry road conditions. Hence, they are a superb fit for sports cars and ultra-high-performance vehicles. They are relatively quiet and can only be rotated vertically.

Fitting the correct tyres on your vehicle can be a game-changer. Thus, deciding on the appropriate tread design is significant. If you are unsure which Firestone Tyres Birmingham are best for your car or SUV, consult a tyre expert. Buy them in the correct size and install them without mixing. Once they are mounted, you are free to enjoy your rides to the full extent.