If you’re having trouble getting your initial hole started, grab an awl, ice pick, or similar tool with a sharp, pointed tip. [1] X Research source Attempting to cut directly through steel belts by hand could dull or damage your cutting implement, or result in a lot of wasted effort.
To avoid an accident, make sure you only rest your foot or knee on a section of the tire you’re not actively cutting.
For maximum leverage and control, position the knife with the blade pointing towards you and slowly guiding it down between your legs. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use a jigsaw or dremel tool with a cutting blade attachment to speed up the process. [3] X Research source
Holding the cut sections open with a dowel as opposed to your own hand will also make you less likely to accidentally cut yourself.
Most waste disposal services won’t pick up old tires unless they’ve had the sidewalls removed. [5] X Research source Not only are they more unwieldy when left intact, it’s also possible for water and other substances to collect inside. If you want to repurpose your tire rather than throwing it away, consider turning it into a garden hose caddy, miniature in-ground pond, or quaint planter for your yard or garden. [6] X Research source
When you’re done, simply sweep the materials into a dustbin and dispose of them. You may need an extension cord if there are no outlets available near your outdoor work space. [7] X Research source
If you need to cut a lot of tires, invest in a set of carbide-toothed saw blades. Carbide blades make cleaner cuts and hold their edge far longer than ordinary varieties. [9] X Research source You might also be able to get through a tire using a hacksaw, if you don’t mind the exercise.
You may encounter a little resistance from the steel belts circling the tire’s inner edge. Don’t worry—as long as you selected the right type of blade, you should be able to saw through the tire with relative ease. If you’re going to be cutting the tire in several places, go ahead and make all your cuts on the first side at once to save time.
Dividing the tire into halves allows you to cut faster and easier than you could by trying to force your cutting tool through both sides at once. It also helps you avoid causing unnecessary damage to your work surface.
Steady the tire carefully for follow-up cuts. As the pieces grow smaller, they’ll become more prone to sliding or shifting on your work surface. Most municipal disposal guidelines require that tires be cut into a minimum of 2 pieces. [12] X Research source
If possible, secure the tire with a vice or adjustable clamp. Otherwise, pinching it between your thighs will help to hold it in place. Be extremely cautious while operating your cutting tool, and make sure you keep it a safe distance away from your body at all times.
