Hazardous trees in the yard could break off during strong winds from a hurricane, thunderstorm, tornado or snowstorm. The worst thing that might happen is a whole tree toppling onto a vehicle, roof, or people under it.
Tree damage may result in sudden tree fall accidents, which poses a safety risk to families and the entire neighborhood. Dangerous trees can be a source of a local power outage, so they must be checked and cut down promptly. So how do you assess that a tree is dangerous?
In this post, you’ll learn the signs of a dangerous backyard tree.
Falling or Dead Branches
Trees normally have fallen or dead branches, but if it starts dropping entire branches, then it’s a strong indication that there’s something wrong with the tree. Dead branches can be dangerous because even on a calm day, they can suddenly crash down onto anything underneath. Professional tree services, like this tree service in Pensacola can help you remove dangerous trees in your yard to avoid accidents.
Rotten Roots
It is difficult to detect root rot, most especially if you don’t have a background studying trees. One manifestation that a tree has rotten roots is if it has growing mushrooms at the base. Also, another clue that a tree may be rotting in the presence of fungal growth on the trunk.
Deep Cracks or Missing Bark
Canker refers to missing, indented, or gashed bark, that may cause a tree to break. Even if the wood appears okay, missing or deep cracks are signs that a tree could be dangerous.
Leaning Trunk
While there are trees that are naturally tilted, some leaning trees can be dangerous. If the tree in your yard leans more than 15 degrees because of root damage or gust of wind, it must be removed right away.
Signs of Unhealthy Trees
Trees can be unhealthy, which can make it dangerous if not removed right away. Spotting unhealthy trees is not too hard to do.
Here are the signs that a tree may be unhealthy:
- Shows stunted growth
- Unusual shape
- Thinning leaves
- Losing leaves out of season
- Pest infestation
Note: In some cases, you’ll be able to save an unhealthy tree, that’s why it’s always a good idea to get a professional opinion before deciding to cut a tree.
Too Close to Power Lines and Other Man-made Structures
Although you probably have a healthy tree in your yard, it’s still considered dangerous if it’s too close to overhead power lines and other man-made structures. Also, overgrown trees with spreading root system may damage the foundation of your house.
Usually, healthy trees that may restrict the function or damage other structures would only require pruning or trimming. However, if you want to completely eliminate the problem and save some space in your yard, removing a healthy tree is a good idea.
Signs of Decay
A tree that suffers from disease and goes undetected for a long time may eventually fall and cause an accident. The color of the bark and leaves can be used as a basis of disease or sign of decay. Lacking leaves is another indication that the tree in your yard is suffering.
General Tips When Looking for a Tree Removal Service
- It’s important to ask how long the tree removal company has been working in the industry and to ask about licensing, permits, and certifications. Find a tree removal service that can offer a wide range of tree services such as the following:
- Tree Removal
- Stump Grinding
- Stump Removal
- Tree Trimming
- Preventative Services
- Wood Chipping
- Tree Planting
- Land and Lot Clearing
- Brush Removal
- Emergency Service
- Tree Fertilization
- Tree Bracing and Cabling
- Ask for references or client referrals to gauge the reputation of the company. Visit the website or social media page of the professional tree removal service to read customer testimonials too. If you’re searching for professionals in the Finger Lakes and Rochester Region of New York, you can find them over at FindTheHomePros.com.
- Find a trusted tree removal company in your local area with a physical address, so you can easily reach them if there would be any problems or concerns. Always obtain the contact numbers of your prospective tree removal companies and contact each to compare customer service.
Conclusion
Trees become dangerous when they lose their structural integrity, such as having deep cracks, missing bark, or the presence of mushrooms or fungal growth. It could be due to aging, pest infestation, environmental elements like wind or hurricane, or human-made injuries, such as tree vandalism or a tree being hit by a car in a car crash. A tree removal company can help you assess if your trees are dangerous or not.
Thank you for explaining how your tree may be suffering from root rot if you see that mushrooms are beginning to grow on its base. My wife and I would like to remove the decaying oak tree in our backyard soon. We will find someone that can help us handle our tree problem.