Trees are good for the soul—and for a beautiful yard. They offer shade, improve the air quality, and enhance the beauty of our homes. Just as with any living thing, though, they can have health issues or structural problems, which can pose safety risks.
Learning to recognize the signs that you need to call a tree expert can help you take better care of your trees—and your property. In this article, we share what to look for and when to call a professional tree removal service.
Healthy trees, healthy yard
Why does tree health matter? The answer might be more complex than you think. First, healthy trees enhance your home’s curb appeal, which can translate to higher value if and when you sell your home. By providing shade, trees can also improve energy efficiency by reducing the need for air conditioning during the summer months (which can help you save on your utility bills). And, if you’ve ever played the “avoiding my neighbor” game, you know that trees can provide privacy.
There are important environmental reasons, too. Healthy trees also help reduce air pollution by acting as natural air purifiers: they absorb carbon dioxide and through the process of photosynthesis, release oxygen back into the air. In addition, healthy trees with robust root systems help to manage stormwater and prevent soil erosion by soaking up and retaining rainwater.
There are times, though, when diseased or damaged trees can pose significant safety risks on your property. Diseased, dying, or damaged trees can topple over in a storm, causing damage to your car, home, and anyone on the property, including passersby. But because trees can become a fixture, many homeowners may not recognize the signs that it’s time to consult an arborist or call a tree removal service unless they are paying careful attention.
When to call a tree removal service
Wondering whether it’s time to call the tree experts? Our guide will help you make an informed decision by explaining four key signs that indicate it’s time to call a professional tree removal service.
#1. Symptoms of tree diseases or infestations
Like people and animals, trees can get sick. When they do, it’s time to take action as soon as you notice the signs of yellowing or wilting leaves, branch dieback, or fungal growth. This is because some tree diseases can be transmitted from the infected tree to others on your property. In addition, early action and treatment can potentially save your tree.
Common tree diseases include Dutch Elm Disease, Apple Scab, Chestnut Blight, Fire Blight, and Anthracnose, among others. You might notice that a tree has not leafed out properly as it would in a typical spring, or you might notice signs that the tree is struggling later on in the growing season. With infestation, you might notice that a tree isn’t thriving. Some infestations, like Japanese beetles, can cause trees to stop thriving but can be treated effectively.
Some diseases like Oak Wilt or Pine Wilt are fatal—and, in the case of the latter, may even spread to other trees. Be sure to call a tree removal service with a certified arborist to diagnose tree disease or infestation and discuss next steps.
#2. Trees with structural damage
Age, storm damage, or disease can cause trees to become structurally compromised. This means that the tree or a branch is unstable and can pose a risk to people and property. Look for hanging or cracked branches or damage to the trunk. Trees about to topple may also lean over.
Seasonal storms can also cause structural damage. Heavy snow and ice storms can damage trees over the winter, while storms with high winds and torrential rain in the spring, summer, or fall may also cause damage. It is a good idea to make a habit of visually inspecting the trees on your property after intense storms and be sure to call a professional tree service if you notice any problems. It’s important to take quick action to prevent complete tree failure.
#3. Proximity to structures or utility lines
Trees in close proximity to or that overhang your house, garage, or utility lines can also pose a risk to your home, even if they are healthy. Over time, tree roots can penetrate your home’s foundation, which can lead to cracks or structural instability. In addition, overhanging branches can damage your gutters, siding, or roof. Not only can this cause damage, but it can also create an entry point for pests or moisture.
Trees growing too close to utility lines, like electric wires, cables, gas or water pipes, or sewer lines, can interfere with service delivery—and even increase the possibility of outages. During storms, trees or branches can topple on power lines, causing outages and endangering residents (of your home and others). It is important to assess when a tree poses a hazard because of its proximity to structures or utilities—and plan for removal by a professional tree service when this is the case.
#4. Tree overcrowding
Finally, just like we do, trees need space and sunshine to thrive. Overcrowding can create unhealthy competition for resources like water and soil nutrients. This stunts growth and can even weaken a tree’s immune system, making it more susceptible to infection or infestation. Though no one relishes removing a tree, it can benefit the remaining trees in the area by ensuring that they are in a healthy environment.
Why call a professional tree removal service
We’ll make this short: you should always call the professionals for tree removal. Tree care is complex—and making a mistake can not only cause damage but be very expensive. A professional tree removal service will have the skills, knowledge, and equipment to ensure safe, proper tree removal. In addition, a certified arborist—a tree expert—will know exactly how a tree should be removed when it is damaged, diseased, or posing a threat to your property.
For more on why and when to call an arborist, see Six Reasons to Hire an Arborist for Tree Care.
When it’s time to call a professional tree care removal service, we can help. Advanced Tree Care combines top-notch equipment, cutting-edge technology, and well-trained staff to provide emergency tree removal and tree maintenance services. With a presence in nine counties and two states, we work daily to provide unparalleled customer service, safety, and efficiency—as well as the expertise to beautify your landscaping and community. Advanced Tree Care isn’t just our name—it’s also our purpose!