If you monitor a tree’s health or have had it recently inspected by an arborist, you likely won’t require emergency tree removal. However, if you’ve been leaving trees on your property to their own devices – watch out. When trees begin to lose strength, their structure is compromised. This can be caused by age, disease or a pest or fungus invasion.
When this happens, your tree becomes a danger to your property and the public. It’s a safety hazard. If the tree is in a high-traffic area, it should be of particular concern to you. It’s not wise to wait until the tree drops a branch or falls over – rather have it removed before this crisis occurs.
Arborists look for the following signs when deciding when to remove a tree. You can also keep an eye out for these common clues that a tree is at risk. The following are considered emergencies, and you need to call a tree removal specialist in pronto.
1. The tree begins to lean
Depending on your property, wind conditions and other factors, it’s perfectly normal for a tree to lean naturally. However, it could also be a sign that the tree is dead or dying and is at risk of falling over.
Here’s how an arborist would calculate the risk. These experts say that you should remove a tree with a lean of more than 15% (from vertical). It’s recommended that any sign of a tree leaning is inspected by a professional. They need to assess the issues and risk. If a tree suddenly goes from upright to leaning, this is considered an emergency and should be checked immediately. It could mean that there is a breakage or the roots have weakened.
2. When the roots are visibly damaged or decaying.
You can tell the health of a tree by its root system. If you notice the roots are beginning to rot or show signs of damage, you should call an emergency tree removal specialist. A tree in this condition is at risk of falling at any time as it has lost its structural support.
3. When the trunk has a crack or a hole
If the tree trunk is in any way compromised, it may mean that the tree is no longer structurally sound. An arborist (tree doctor) will inspect the tree to determine if the cavity is too big to offer the plant the strength it needs or if it is a sign it has become a hazard in your garden. Have you noticed that the tree is starting to lost large pieces of bark? This is another indication that the tree needs to be checked as a matter of urgency.
4. When the tree is hollow
A tree trunk that has become hollowed poses a danger and should be removed. It’s good for birds and other animals, but as a property owner, it’s a problem if a large portion of the tree’s centre is hollow. A tree can live if its trunk is hollow because its live tissue is in the outer edges, not the centre. But a hollow trunk compromises the strength of a tree and presents a fall hazard.
5. The tree is damaged
What is considered to be ‘extensive damage’? If fifty percent or more of the tree is damaged, it is deemed hazardous and needs to be removed. Trees may take many years to decline and still survive, but there comes the point when their strength has been compromised, and they are too dangerous to keep
6. You notice sprouts or branches emerging from the trunk.
New growth is healthy, right? Sprouts or branches emerging from a trunk indicate that the tree is suffering from severe stress – and it’s not healthy at all. It needs to be evaluated by a professional and likely removed as soon as possible.
7. There are large, dead branches
Tree branches that have missing bark or dead leaves pose an immediate danger. They could fall at any time. An arborist will assess the health of the tree and may only remove the compromised branches. However, this is considered an emergency and should be a priority.
When a tree falls or a branch breaks, it’s also recommended that you call a contractor immediately. T&G Tree Removal Central Coast have indicated that DIY attempts to remove a tree in most cases lead to dangerous situations. Trying to move a limb or broken tree, even if it is to gain access to your driveway or home, is unsafe. Leave it to the pros who have the experience and equipment to deal with these situations.