Trees are a beautiful addition to any property, providing shade and greenery to landscaping. Sometimes, however, they become sick or compromised, making professional tree removal a necessary step to ensure your property’s safety. Here are a few signs to look for.

How to Know You Need Tree Removal

1. Leaning Trees

If you notice trees leaning, especially toward the east or in the direction of your property, they are in danger of falling. While some trees naturally grow at an angle, you should keep track of leaning trees that incline more than usual or change over time. Leaning coupled with other signs will mean you need tree removal.

2. Dead Areas

Dead branches and a lack of leaves show that the tree is weak. Also, note if the tree drops its leaves sooner than others in the area. A sickly tree will not hold its leaves, and branches will show signs of dying, which poses a hazard if they fall.

3. Trunk With Cavities or Splits

Trunks with cracks, cavities, and signs of splitting are no longer strong enough to bear the weight of the tree. Look for sections of bark that are missing or flaking off as this indicates illness or a pest infestation that will compromise the tree’s integrity. If a fungus has started to grow, parts of the trunk may have already died. Also, watch out for trunks in the shape of a V as these are weaker and will eventually fail.

4. Decaying Roots

Visible roots at the base of the tree are called anchoring roots. As the name indicates, these are needed to keep the tree stable. Rotting roots is a sure sign of a structural issue, which is dangerous to your property and anyone walking underneath. Look for cracked or raised soil along with mushrooms and other fungi that indicate decay has begun. Before this tree falls, call for tree removal.

5. Ground Debris

Check around the base of the tree for excess dead branches and twigs. If they are regularly falling, something is wrong with the tree, and you will likely find more dead limbs in the tree’s canopy. Also look for frass, a sawdust-type material, which means pests have infested and bored into the wood.

 

For tree removal and land clearing in Anchorage, AK, Alaska Hydro Ax is the company to call. This excavation contractor ensures that your property is cleared of hazardous areas and prepared for building by way of the latest techniques and equipment in the industry. Their team works all year long to provide necessary site preparation and complete land clearing no matter the weather. For a free estimate, call (907) 243-6200. Visit them online for more on their tree and stump services.