The cold weather and harsh storms that come with winter are a major concern for homeowners with trees on their property. The unpredictable weather makes emergency tree service calls more common; however, not every issue is necessarily an emergency. Explore this guide to winter tree issues to know when you should call for emergency tree service.

Why Winter is a Precarious Time for Trees

The first issue facing many trees, but especially evergreens, is the lack of moisture in winter. Without adequate water, trees dry up and suffer from winterburn, which weakens their bark. Another problem is frost cracks that form from low or fluctuating temperatures, and much like winterburn, these undermine the tree’s structural integrity. These circumstances are made worse with the presence of snow and ice. Since your trees are already more brittle than in the healthier spring and summer seasons, the added weight of snow and ice accumulation can become dangerous. This buildup can cause dead or weakened limbs to fall and can even bring the entire tree down, especially if the storm also includes heavy winds.

How to Know if You Need Emergency Tree Service

With so many potential problems in winter, it can be difficult to understand what constitutes an emergency, but there are a few instances where you’ll need professional help right away.

Regularly inspect your trees and be on the lookout for any limbs or branches that appear to be weak or dying. If you spot any, particularly ones overhanging any buildings or utility lines, schedule tree pruning before any winter storms hit because they are more likely to break off and cause damage. Similarly, if a tree is uprooted or breaks at the trunk and falls onto the property, request an emergency tree removal — even if it doesn’t appear to be an immediate threat to any structures on the property. Fallen trees may seem settled, but they can quickly shift or roll and harm the property or cause personal injury.

 

If you’re concerned about how your trees will fare this winter, consult the tree experts at T & L Tree and Landscape in Macedon, NY. As one of the area’s premier tree and landscaping companies for the past 50 years, their team of insured contractors can help keep your property protected all year long. Schedule an appointment by calling (585) 223-3190 or learn more online.