When is it Time to Get Tree Removal?

It’s rare that someone likes to get tree removal done on their property. Just like how no one likes to get their roof replaced or oil changed, it’s one of those things we do to prevent bigger problems down the line. That said, the important of tree removal can’t be understated. Unstable trees on your property can cause damage to your home, business, vehicles, and even yourself. And what’s worse: the signs of a tree getting ready to fall over might not be immediately obvious.

Luckily, our professionals at American Arbor know exactly what to look for in at-risk trees. And today, we’re excited to share some of our insights with you. In this month’s blog post, we’re reviewing three signs that tell you its time to get your tree removed.

1. The Tree is Leaning More and More

A little bit of a lean on a tree isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Particularly in hilly areas, trees will naturally lean when they’re rooted on an angular surface. In fact, a lean in trees can even be a sign of health if they’re strongly rooted and growing in a way that allows them more sunlight.

Even so, leaning trees on your property are usually worth a look, especially if they didn’t use to lean. Here are some questions you should ask as you inspect a leaning tree:

• Is the ground saturated with water? If the ground can’t support your weight without sinking or shifting, it probably can’t support a tree’s.
• Are there exposed roots? If the roots are more exposed then before, it means the tree is losing its “grip” on the soil (likely due to erosion).
• Is the soil around the tree disrupted/cracking/ “lifting” on one side and not the other? If so, that could mean the roots on one side are pulling out of the ground.

2. The Tree is Infested with Mold, Fungus, or Pests

Just like you and I, trees can get sick. Molds, fungi, and pests love to make their home in trees, since trees don’t have many defense mechanisms past their bark. And while it can be difficult to imagine something as mighty as a tree being felled by something as small as a bug, you’d be surprised.

While it’s obvious how pests like termites might make a tree unstable, you’ll really need to watch out for are the sneaky ones. Most parasites on a tree (such as mold and fungus) enter through a “wound” in the tree where bark has been stripped off. From there, they dig into the tree and leech its precious nutrients. As a result, the tree will die from inside-out; you may not even notice until it’s too late. Then, one day, the tree will collapse.

3. The Tree has Suffered Storm Damage

Storms can cause intense physical trauma to trees. Even if you don’t notice fallen limbs, the internal structure of the tree can suffer great damage as the limbs are whipped around and pulled back and forth at high speeds. Storm damage is particularly common after weather events with heavy rain and snowfall, since they add significant weight to a tree during the storm.

Get Precise Tree Removal from American Arbor

If you’re worried that you might have a tree in danger of falling over, then don’t wait. Calling for an inspection from a professional can be the first step to preventing serious harm to your property or yourself. For more information on our tree removal services or to request an tree inspection, click here to contact us today.