Being able to spot warning signs that a tree may fall is an important skill for homeowners to possess. Falling trees could damage your home or put your family’s health in jeopardy. You may want to cut them down as a precaution, preventing unexpected damage. Professionals offering tree services in Johns Creek, GA, can help you understand the signs of an unstable or leaning tree.
Lightning Has Hit the Tree and Damaged It
Trees often struggle to recover from a lightning strike. Not only does it visibly damage the branches, but the resulting heat could kill leaves and roots.
An arborist can inspect lightning-damaged trees and determine whether they will heal. However, most will require removal.
The Trunk Develops a Severe Lean
After a storm, you might notice that one of your favorite trees is leaning. This problem indicates damage to the roots, even though you may not be able to see it.
A professional may suggest preventing the hazardous tree from falling by using cables and stakes to pull it straight and support it. If the lean is minor and the plant is otherwise healthy, this method gives it a good chance at recovery.
The Roots Pop Out of the Ground
One of the clearest signs a tree may fall is when roots are visible because of heaving soil near the trunk. This problem exposes the roots to air and sunlight, which may dry out and kill them. Without the proper anchorage, the tree will be more likely to fall in the near future.
One Side of the Canopy Loses Its Leaves
When leaves and branches show signs of disease or death on one side of the canopy, the tree may be in danger of falling. Visible damage on one side often indicates root damage affecting the stability of the trunk. Aggressive treatments may help the roots recover.
Cavities and Major Cracks Appear in the Trunk
When a trunk begins losing bark, it may reveal holes and cracks in the wood underneath. Trees struggle to recover from such damage. Eventually, the trunk might collapse from the weight of the canopy, causing the entire plant to crash to the ground. Removal is usually necessary when this problem appears.
The Trunk’s Wood Becomes Spongy and Weak
One of the key signs a tree may fall is when part of the trunk’s wood becomes spongy. This weaker wood may not be able to support the weight of the canopy and limbs, eventually collapsing. You’d then have to call for help after the tree falls in your yard. Consider removing it before it falls.
Large Insect Populations Are Crawling on the Tree
Learning how to identify a dangerous tree sometimes involves watching for insect infestations. When carpenter ants, termites, beetles, or other destructive insects are present in large numbers, they may have built a nest in the wood and severely weakened it. Treating the insects or felling the tree are options to deal with this situation.
Rely on Southern Tree Pros for Advice on Managing Dangerous Trees on Your Property
If you believe you are seeing signs that a tree may fall, don’t wait to see what happens. Instead, take immediate steps to protect yourself and your property, starting with reaching out to the experts at Southern Tree Pros. The crew will take steps to prevent a tree from falling on a house, whether that involves supporting it with cables and stakes, cutting it down, or using another technique.
After performing a tree safety assessment, the crew will provide advice on which steps you should take. For a free cost estimate, contact us today at (770) 841-1684.
