Tire Tread Specifications
Tread depth refers to the measurement of the tire's deepest grooves from the top of its tread rubber. In U.S. standards, tread depth is measured in 32nds of an inch. A worn out tire has less tread depth. For safety, once the tread depth reaches the legally worn out measurement, it is time to replace the tire.
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Tread Designs
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Tire tread designs are tailored for the general road needs of the vehicle's tires. Deep designs offer better gripping action in places with loose soil and snow. Smooth surfaces allow maximum contact area, which is advantageous in racing. A compromise between these extremes provides the regular tire tread designs used on most tires.
Tread Depth Measurement
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Since tread depth is difficult to accurately measure with a ruler, depth is often measured with a tire tread depth gauge. A motorist who wants to measure a tire's tread depth can use a U.S. Lincoln penny to see if the tire needs replacement. If Lincoln's entire head is visible, this means the depth is approximately 2/32 inch, legally worn out according to U.S. standards.
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Differences in Tread Depth
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Generally, an average new tire used in a car starts with 10/32 inch to 11/32 inch of tread depth. Tires used during winter (snow tires) and those used on light trucks generally have deeper treads.
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References
- Photo Credit tire image by Orlando Florin Rosu from Fotolia.com
