Knowing when a tree is about to fall can save you time and money in the long run. Whether you are dealing with a dead tree or one that is showing signs of decline, there are ways to identify if it is about to topple over.
This article highlights a few common signs that a tree may be on its way out and what to do when you spot them.
Look Out for Warning Signs
The most common warning sign of an impending tree failure is the presence of mushrooms or other fungi near the base of your tree. Mushrooms indicate that your tree has large amounts of rotting wood inside and could collapse at any moment. The tree could be slowly dying on the inside, and you may not be able to see it until it's too late.
Another sign to look out for is cavities in the trunk or weak branches. These can be caused by disease or age-related damage. They look like holes in the trunk or branches, and they can weaken the tree significantly.
Also, if you notice that your tree's roots have been damaged due to construction work or nearby vehicles, this could also contribute to a potential fall. The roots anchor the tree into the ground, so weaker roots can cause instability.
Be Wary of Weather Extremes
Weather extremes can also increase the chances of a tree falling over, especially if they've already been weakened by disease or decay. Heavy snowfall and strong winds can cause even healthy trees to topple if they become weighed down by snow or pushed over by gusts of wind. This is especially true if the tree is situated in a low-lying and windy area.
Keep an eye on your trees during periods of extreme weather and watch out for signs that they may be at risk—such as leaning branches or cracking sounds coming from the trunk—and take action before it's too late!
Know When It's Time to Call an Arborist
If you're worried about a particular tree on your property, it's best to call an arborist who can assess its health and advise on how best to proceed. They'll be able to tell whether it's safe for removal or just needs some minor pruning work done to reduce any risk of falling over.
You should also consult an arborist if you plan on doing any major landscaping work around your home, which may impact existing trees in some way. For instance, if you have to dig foundations near a tree, an arborist can advise you on how best to protect it and ensure that it stays safe and healthy. They might also suggest that you remove it if it poses too much of a risk.
Contact a local tree removal service to learn more.