Looking to retire your old tractor or replace worn-out tires before the spring rolls around? You might be wondering where you can recycle your old tires so that they aren’t leaning up against the side of your barn, collecting rain water. Here are a few not-so-typical ideas that go beyond the old standard tire swing option.
Make a See Saw
There’s nothing more fun than a see saw, but it’s a piece of play equipment that you won’t find on most playgrounds these days. Fortunately, you can make a smaller (and safer) version that’s portable, by cutting your tractor tire in half and putting a board on top. You can make it as simple or fancy as you want!
Get the how-to’s here: http://builtbykids.com/how-to-build-tire-see-saw/
Create a Playscape for the Kids
Why drive to the park when you could build your own playscape out on the back 40? Whether it’s your kids, grandkids, or even your goats that want to have something to climb on, partially burying your tractor tires at different levels can give everybody something to jump on and off of.
Image source: http://littlemomentstoembrace.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-best-playground-ever.html
Make a Sandbox
Paint your tire and line the edges with pool noodles to make a colorful sandbox anywhere in the yard. It’s just the right size and doesn’t require any boards or nails to put it together.
This mom used multiple shades of paint to give her daughter’s play area a rainbow-inspired color theme.
https://paigespartyideas.com/ways-to-re-use-tires/6/
Make Planters
Create small segments for plants inside of your designated garden area by digging down, laying a thick plastic sheet (or newspapers) and putting your tire in place before filling it with compost and potting soil. The raised beds make it easier for you to get down and tend to your plants without having to break your back or knees.
http://personalliberty.com/use-old-tires-culverts-to-grow-vegetables
Donate Them to a Fitness Club or Start Cross Training
If you’re a Crossfit or Camp Gladiator nut, you know that you can get a good workout just by implementing old tractor tires into your fitness routine. From tire flipping to jumping to elevated pushups, you can get a good hour of cardio without having to leave the farm.
Get some ideas here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=49&v=m6k8nTze2OQ
Turn it into Furniture
Did you know that your old tires could turn into a nice piece of furniture that no one will ever realize used to be on your tractor? This blogger shows you how to use twin to cover your tire and create a customized ottoman that looks great in any living room.
Make a Bed for Your Dog
Is your dog rough (or should we say “ruff?”) on his bed? You might want to consider making one out of your smaller tractor tires. This website has a dozen different ideas for making custom dog beds, including the one crafted from an old tire.
http://wonderfuldiy.com/20-fantastic-pet-bed-ideas/
Use it to Add Tread to Steps
Are you tired of slipping on the steps or hearing someone nag about how dangerously slippery those wooden stairs get after a good rain? Recycle your tire tread to add safety grips on your steps that look like they’re professionally made!