Trees on your property offer so many benefits. They boost your curb appeal, increase energy efficiency, improve air quality, and add privacy. They can even increase the value of your home.
Unfortunately, trees on your property also come with a downside — they can be very dangerous. Falling trees are a common cause of severe property damage, and they also result in injuries and fatalities every year. While trees can be a major asset to your property, in some cases, they can turn into a significant liability especially when they’re not properly cared for.
Like all living things, trees don’t last forever. When they begin to deteriorate, the possibility of falling increases significantly. Even completely healthy trees can shed large branches during a storm, which can damage your home or vehicle. In some cases, healthy trees can even be completely uprooted during periods of sustained high wind speeds.
When it comes to trees around your home, it’s important to weigh the risks and benefits. However, by learning to evaluate a tree’s condition, providing regular maintenance, and removing it when necessary, you can help mitigate the risk and keep your family and home safe.
Why Are Unhealthy Trees Dangerous?
When trees become sick, they can begin to deteriorate and may eventually die. As a tree loses its strength, large branches will begin to fall and eventually the entire tree will inevitably collapse. Falling trees are incredibly dangerous to people and property around the tree, especially if the tree is located right next to your home or business.
If your unhealthy tree falls and damages your neighbor’s property, you may even be liable depending on where you live, especially if the tree was sick for an extended period of time and fell due to negligence. If a tree appears to be unhealthy or becomes a safety hazard, it’s the property owner’s responsibility to take action.
How To Monitor Your Trees For Fall Risks
While dying trees create a significant safety risk, there are several things you can do on a regular basis to better understand your tree’s health and its chances of falling.
- Schedule An Annual Inspection With A Certified Arborist
To monitor for disease, your trees should be inspected annually by a certified arborist. Arborists are licensed to perform tree care and pruning, diagnose conditions, and remove trees. We receive extensive training and education and are the best at what we do. If your tree is sick, an arborist may be able to help it recover. If not, they’ll be able to recommend the right time and approach for tree removal. - Trim Back Large Branches
Perfectly healthy trees can pose safety risks too. Trees can grow for decades and eventually become larger than anticipated. When large branches grow over homes or roads, they can easily break off or cause significant damage. Therefore, it’s important to have your trees pruned and large branches trimmed back at least once a year. - Watch For Signs Of Disease
Unhealthy trees are usually easy to spot. They tend to lean to one side or the bark will be peeling or appear discolored. You may even notice signs of rot or pest infestation. In the spring or summer, you can also take a look at the leaves, which will appear discolored or may have holes. Fungus growth can also be a warning sign. If you observe any of these signs, then it might be time for tree removal. At the very least, calling your arborist as quickly as possible can give your tree the best chance of survival. - Inspect Your Trees After Weather Events
Storms, heavy snow, and wind can all affect a tree’s stability. After a severe weather event, take a few minutes to walk around your trees and visually asses their condition. If a tree branch appears damaged, you should remove it right away. If you can’t reach it, then it’s time to call a professional.
How Tree Removal Services Can Help
Tree removal is a service that can keep your family and property safe. If you have a tree near your home that poses a safety risk, a certified arborist or outdoor services company can remove it.
If one of your trees is sick or dying, removal might be necessary in order to prevent damage or injury. An arborist will always make every attempt to treat and save a tree, and removal is always a last resort unless you specifically request it. However, if we determine the tree poses a safety risk to people or property, we do recommend you take action as soon as possible.
The manner in which an arborist removes a tree will ultimately depend on the size and location. The tree can either be removed by cutting it at the base and allowing it to fall to one side or it can be scaled from top to bottom and removed piece by piece. In either scenario, your contractor will remove the tree in the safest way possible while preventing damage to the nearby environment.
Once the tree is down, your contractor will then saw up the branches and debris and place them into a chipper, which will chop them up into mulch. Once a tree is removed, you’ll have the option of deciding what you’d like to do with the stump. The stump can also be grinded as an additional service, or you can leave it in the yard. We always recommend finding a contractor that offers both tree removal and stump grinding in order to save you time and money.
Trees are an important element in any landscape, but over time, they can grow into major hazards on any property. If your trees pose a safety risk to you or your family, removal is always your best option. Contact us at CFB Outdoors for an estimate today. We’re a team of certified arborists and municipal specialists who offer both tree removal and stump grinding services. We have all the equipment to get the job done quickly and efficiently, plus we offer unbeatable customer service.