Signs a tree may be hazardous

No matter how much trees give benefits to your property, keeping one that is hazardous is not worth it. You have to make sure you look at the early signs of a tree that needs attention, so you can take proper action to save it.

Physical Signs of Hazardous Trees
There are physical indicators of a damaged and unhealthy tree. Here are some of the signs you should look for in your trees.

• Dead branches: Branches that are bare and have brown leaves are usually dead. If you have pine trees in your yard, check for branches with brown needles. It is a bit challenging to identify dead branches at times, so it would help if you call a professional for an assessment.
• Cracks in the trunk: Split wood in the trunk doesn't always mean the tree needs to be removed, but the structural integrity of the tree should be checked. Insects, diseases, or fungus can bring split or cracks. Presence of cracks can increase the probability of the tree becoming dangerous.
• More than one stem: Multiple stems can grow in some trees, and this can be a potential hazard because these stems can split during high winds. Have your tree checked by a professional and if the tree is healthy, cables will do the trick in keeping the structural stability of the stems.
• Trunk decay: This can be a serious problem during a storm. The tree can collapse if you don't notice and address the decay in the trunk. Look for indications of deterioration as well as fungus and mushroom growth on the trunk or anywhere near it.
• Root problems: When a tree has a problem with its roots, it can be a severe threat to its structural integrity. It can topple during high winds or storm. Trees that have issues with roots typically lean on one side a little bit. Inspect your tree and look for signs of problems in the roots. One indicator is the side of the ground where the tree leans is raised.

Determining Risk Levels
If your tree shows one or any of the signs mentioned above, you have to evaluate their risk level. If the tree only has few dead branches and it is not too dangerous, there may be no need for the tree to be taken down. However, if the tree has severe damage, it needs to be eliminated to ensure safety.

Call Grace Tree Service if you have any concerns about the safety of a tree in your landscape.  We offer free consulting and estimates for tree removal, tree trimming, and all other tree care services.