Beautiful trees can make your yard more attractive and valuable, but they pose major risks to your property when they become unhealthy. Unsafe trees pose a serious falling hazard, threatening the safety and value of your home and family. It’s important to recognize the signs of trees in distress, so they can be removed before they become a problem. Here are the top four signs it might be time to consider tree removal.
1. Leaning Trees
A leaning tree is a major cause for concern. A noticeable lean in your tree suggests it’s unstable, possibly due to root damage or eroded soil. If your tree doesn’t stand upright or visibly tilts more over time, that’s a dead giveaway that tree removal should be considered as soon as possible. An unstable tree can fall at any time, especially during windstorms. If the tree is near your home, power lines, or walkways, the risk of damage or injury is that much greater.
2. Dead or Dying Trees
Branches without new leaves during the growing season can indicate the tree is in poor health. Healthy trees should always have new, vibrant foliage in the spring and summertime. A sick or dying tree will have sparse new growth or none at all. No new growth is a good indication the tree is unhealthy and needs to be removed.
Dry and brittle branches are another sign the tree is sick. Aside from being unsightly, these branches are much more likely to fall unexpectedly, potentially causing injury or damage. You can test the health of the branches by snapping one in half. Dead or dying branches are weak and brittle. If the twig is dry and snaps easily, the tree may be dying.
3. Fungal Growth and Decay
Fungus growing near the base of a tree often signals internal decay. Mushrooms and other fungi feed on rotting organic matter, indicating the tree’s structure might be compromised. Observing these signs might mean it’s time to call in the professionals for a thorough assessment and possible tree removal.
4. Cracked or Splitting Trunk
A tree trunk displaying large cracks or deep splits poses an obvious safety threat. They indicate major structural issues in the tree and can lead to partial or complete collapse. If your tree has cracks and splits, it’s highly likely to come apart under the stress of severe storms or heavy winds. In these cases, quick and professional tree removal is essential for safety and prevention of damage to property.
If you’re faced with problematic trees, give us a call at Miller Tree Service. Our expert team provides safe, efficient, and professional tree removal services. We’re here to help protect your property and ensure your peace of mind. Reach out today to schedule an assessment and we’ll help you keep your property safe.