Patch Or Plug? Which Of The Two "Ps" Does Your Tire Need?



1 April 2016
 Categories: Automotive, Blog

When you're dealing with a damaged tire, you're usually faced with three basic options: Tire replacement, tire patch, or tire plug. For severe damage like shredding, tire replacement is the only way to go. However, many tires are damaged in fairly small ways, such as punctures due to nails or screws. In cases where the tire is damaged in only a small area, a tire patch or plug is often the right choice. While the two things may be confused sometimes, they are actually very different. Keep reading to find out which one might be the right choice when you're faced with a tire emergency.

The Pros of Plugs

Many tire repair providers recommend tire plugs because they are typically the least expensive choice. Plugs are also the fastest way to fix minor tire damage. A plug is inserted into the tire, which takes just a couple of minutes in most cases. The plug will then mold itself into the tire snugly in a process called vulcanization. Since the plug is molded to the tire, it will typically have enough stability to allow for normal driving in the future. 

The Cons of Plugs

While a tire plug can be an excellent solution for small tire damages, it may not be ideal for damage located on or near the tire sidewall. Sidewalls are relatively thin, so any puncture very close to or within the sidewall may be poorly placed for a successful plugging. If the tire puncture is horizontal, a plug will work well, but a diagonal puncture is more challenging to fix and will therefore usually require a patch instead.

The Pros of Patches

Patches are often the solution that tire services providers recommend for larger punctures. Patches are generally considered the sturdiest and most reliable tire repair method. Tire patches can cover a larger amount of damage than a plug can, and they can fix both horizontal and diagonal punctures. Tire patches are adhered to the tire using a custom tire cement. The cement is applied to both the exterior and the interior of the tire wall to prevent any sliding of the patch. With a patch in place, the tire can be driven normally and will usually last for the standard lifespan of that tire.

The Cons of Patches

Tire patches are more expensive than plugs, which is their primary disadvantage. It also takes longer to properly patch a tire than it does to repair a tire using a plug, so you need to plan for plenty of time for a proper repair. 

No matter which of the two "Ps" sounds best for your damaged tire, it's important that a professional tire services provider, like http://www.pdrauto.com/, does the work. Call a local provider to find out how soon you can get back on the road today!

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