60+ Ingenious Ways to Reuse Scrap Tires

scrap tires layered together

Updated September 13, 2023

Automobiles have been mass produced for more than a century, which equates to a lot of scrap tires.

Until about two decades ago the vast majority of these tires were simply tossed in a landfill or stockpiled somewhere.

In fact, the Rubber Manufacturer’s Association (RMA) states there were 1 billion tires stockpiled in the U.S. as recently as 1990.

2011 figures show that number has dwindled down to about 111.5 million tires.

About 60 million of these tires are stockpiled at two locations in the “Rubber Mountain state”, Colorado.

Today, about 88% of scrap tires are reused or recycled into new products.

That’s good news considering tires are terrible for the environment.

They don’t decompose quickly, they contain toxic chemicals, and they’re breeding grounds for mosquitos and other pests.

Most states have laws prohibiting disposing of tires in landfills, and 48 states have some sort of procedure for safely disposing of tires.

Practical solutions for recycling scrap tires include:

  • Creating fuel from tires
  • Making rubber pellets to manufacture new products
  • Re-treading tires
  • Melting down tires to be used in asphalt mixes

Those uses are certainly excellent ways to reduce the number of scrap tires piled high across the nation, but that’s not what this article is all about.

We want to take a look at the more unique, creative, artistic, mind-blowing, why-didn’t-I-think-of-that type of ways to reuse scrap tires.


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Scrap Tire Roofing

scrap tire roofing

Via: Flickr: Jennifer Long

While you may not consider roofing your home with scrap tires, it's a great option for covering outbuildings or playhouses.

Fashion from Repurposed Tires

clothing and accessories repurposed from tires

Via: Silodrome, eCouterre, Lushome, inhabitat

Countless companies are increasing their efforts to use recycled materials, one of which being rubber tires.

The possibilities are endless—buy or try your hand at making your own today.

Scrap Tires for Playtime

outdoor play equipment made from recycled tires

Via: Kaboom, Ripe Green Ideas, Backpackerina

scrap tire play equipment

Via: I Heart Naptime, Flickr: Nick Sayers

Rubber tires are durable yet soft and relatively pliable, making them great options for building playscapes of all types for both kids and pets.


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Garden and Outdoor Decorating

repurposed scrap tires in garden

recycled tire uses for the garden

Via: RelaxShacks.com, Snappy Pixels

One of the most possible uses for old tires is as a container for flowers or plants.

Likewise, they can be repurposed as outdoor furniture or other landscaping features.


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Upcycled Tire Art

upcycled tire art and sculptures

recycled tire art crocodile sculptures

Via: Eric Langert, Yong Ho Ji, inhabitat, Arts Observer, Tire Art

The creative possibilities when repurposing tires as art are truly endless, as shown above.

For the Home

recycled tires as home decor

furniture made from recycled tires

Via: Home Crux, Nest, Green Launches, The Luxury Spot, Design Rulz

Just as tires can be used to create outdoor furniture, they can also be used to create indoor furniture and decor pieces.


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