A diseased, dying, or dead tree presents more than cosmetic problems. It can fall at any time, such as during a storm, and land on your home, car, neighboring property, or anyone in close proximity. Insurance companies may not cover property damages and medical bills if negligence, such as failing to schedule reasonable and timely tree removal services, can be proven. Avoid all of these issues by educating yourself on the signs indicating a tree may be about to come down.

What Are the Warning Signs of a Tree in Danger of Falling?

1. Severe Leaning

Observe your tree for signs of unhealthy leaning. While some trees naturally bend, many that lean have suffered from disease, pest infestations, or storm damage that left them weakened.

Look for visible roots or a mound on the opposite side of the lean. If some of the roots have always been visible, inspect for signs of rot, such as mushrooms.

2. Missing Bark & Other Trunk Damages

Check the trunk for cankers, or gashes/indentations from fungal infections. Trees can break at these spots. Inspect for other trunk damage that compromises the structure, including holes from decay.

Tap on the trunk as well—if it sounds hollow, it likely has hollow tree fungus and will require removal services.

3. Dead Branches

Schedule tree removal if you notice an increasing number of branches around the tree’s perimeter. Trees shed their branches when they’re having health problems, such as root rot that limits nutrient distribution. Since branches can fall and cause serious damage, don’t wait to call your local tree service.

4. Missing Inside Leaves

Look “inside” the tree for missing leaves. Healthy trees shed their leaves from the outside in, not the inside out. Missing interior leaves signal a root system problem that can cause the whole tree to tip over.

5. V-Shaped Branches

See if the branches grow in a “U” shape, which indicates tree health. Branches growing in “V” formation snap off easily, such as when there’s a strong gust of wind. Some species are prone to “V” formations, such as elm, oak, willow, and maple; however, the issue often occurs due to lack of pruning. In bigger trees, a single limb can do substantial damage if it falls.

 

Schedule tree removal with H & H Tree Service to prevent your property from becoming a liability. The tree service company has served New London, NC, and the surrounding areas for 23 years and is fully insured up to $2 million. Whether you need stump grinding, tree trimming, or stump removal, the team of professionals will deliver prompt service at a friendly rate. Call (704) 463-0353 today for a free estimate or visit the team online for more about tree removal.