Trees are a beautiful part of your landscaping, but when they become weak, damaged, or sick, they pose a risk to both your property and the people who live there. There are a few ways to tell if a tree is at risk for falling. Here are five signs that it is time to call for tree removal.

How to Know Your Trees May Fall

1. Leaning

There is a difference between a tree that grew at a slant and a tree that is leaning after suffering storm or root damage. If the tree has been weakened and is now leaning more than 15 degrees, you will most likely need tree removal. Besides being at an angle, you may also notice cracking in the soil and exposed roots. You may even see fungi growing around the base and on the trunk, which indicates rot.

2. Holes & Splits

When cavities begin in the tree trunk, there may be decay forming inside. The size of the cavity will determine if the tree is in danger of falling or if it can be saved. Sometimes the trunk splits, which indicates instability and a loss of strength after a storm or the result of old age. While an arborist may be able to stabilize the tree, the extent of the trunk damage may lead to tree removal.

3. Missing or Cracking Bark

You may notice trees are missing bark or there are areas of severe cracking. Similar to cavities in the trunk, these cankers and their severity will affect how stable the tree is. If the canker is contained to one area, only those branches may break off, but if the bark damage is all over, the tree is in danger of toppling.

4. Falling Branches

If you notice your trees are losing branches large and small, the arbor may be ill. Dead branches that are falling frequently are a danger themselves, depending on how large and heavy those limbs are. The more the tree sheds, the weaker the tree is becoming.

5. Construction Damage

After a construction project on your property, some trees may be unstable due to stress during the work or their roots being disturbed. Some construction equipment may even damage the trunk and scrape off bark or low hanging branches. The result may be a compromised tree that can longer remain in place.

When you need tree removal in the High Point, NC, area, call the experts at JD Mills Expert Tree Service. The tree company brings more than 40 years of experience to every service they provide, from stump grinding to tree pruning. Locally owned, their extensive knowledge ensures that your trees are healthy and your landscaping is neat and beautiful. Call (336) 431-8162 for an appointment or visit them online for more on their work.