When it comes to removing a tree from your property, the choice can be hard and emotional. Since trees can live anywhere from 50 years to several thousand years, they are often a part of a family or community for many years, making them important to many people. Trees are mentally, physically, and emotionally beneficial but they can be extreme safety hazards, as well. All trees eventually become too old or dangerous to stay on a property, especially when they are around homes. If you're concerned with the safety of one of your trees and considering removal, here are a few things to consider when making your decision.
How Healthy is the Tree?
The health of the tree is one of the most important factors when determining whether a tree is in need of removal or not. Signs that the tree is not healthy include halted growth and a strange appearance or shape of the tree and/or leaves. If over half of the tree has damage, this is a sign that it needs removed. To be sure the tree is damaged beyond repair, you'll want an arborist to inspect it.
How is the Tree's Trunk Health?
Along with the overall health of the tree, the health of the trunk itself can show a lot about the dangers of a tree. For example, cracks and cavities in the trunk of a tree is a sign that the tree could fall at any given time, endangering anything and anyone nearby. Along with cracks and cavities, dead branches and any visible wounds indicate severe damage to a tree's trunk. Another telltale sign that a tree needs removed is if it is hollow. A hollow trunk makes the tree much less strong and sturdy, creating a major safety hazard. In many cases, trauma to the tree will cause extensive trunk damage. It will also simply decline over time.
Are the Roots of the tree Damaged?
The base of the tree is another important piece of the puzzle. First, check the roots. If they are damaged or decaying, the tree could fall due to lack of support. Another sign that the tree is not structurally sound is space between the tree and the ground. If the tree is leaning to one side, this could mean that the roots are breaking and/or weakening. In this case, you want to have the tree removed as soon as possible.
Are There Small Branches at the Base of the Tree?
Although sprouts shooting out of the base of the trunk may look interesting, this is a sign of something wrong with the tree. Sprouts pop up when the tree is under severe stress. Possible causes of stress include:
- New home construction injury
- Over-exposure to the sun
- Excavation
- Soil compaction
This doesn't always lead to removal of the tree, but you should have it inspected by a professional to be sure. While you're checking the trunk of the tree for sprouts or small branches, also be on the lookout for fungus or rot. If there are fungi growing directly on the tree, the tree could be rotting on the inside. If this is the case, the tree will need to be removed quick.
Is the Tree Located Under Power Lines?
Another reason you might want to consider have a tree professionally removed is if it is located under power lines and is still growing. If a tree is growing into the power lines, we can often thin it out but in many cases, it's much easier to remove it completely. Never attempt to remove close touching branches or limbs by yourself. Accidentally touching the power lines could lead to death. By hiring a professional to either thin the top of the tree or remove it completely, you can ensure your safety.
Are There Many Dead Branches?
If there are many large dead branches near the top of the tree, they can be dangerous for neighboring homes and buildings. If more than 25% of the branches are dead or leaning to one side, the tree will most likely not be able to recover. If less than 25% of the branches are dead, our experts can remove them and salvage the tree.
Deciding to have a tree removed from your property is never an easy decision. To avoid having to make this difficult decision, make sure you're taking proper care of your trees by avoiding these common tree care mistakes. If all else fails, turn to the professionals to ensure your trees are in great hands.