Trees are a big part of the landscape but can be a hazard if damaged, diseased or hit by external events like storms.
Knowing when to call for emergency tree removal can save you money and keep your home or surroundings safe. By recognising the signs you can act before a potential disaster happens.
In this post, Heywood Tree Services look at the key signs that mean your tree needs to be removed now.
From storm damage to proximity risks, we’ll walk you through the scenarios where you need to act fast.
Signs of Danger
Trees often show warning signs before becoming a hazard. If you see a tree leaning badly it may be root damage or instability.
Cracks in the trunk or large branches can mean internal weaknesses which can collapse.
These can develop over time or suddenly after a weather event and need to be addressed immediately to prevent accidents.
Exposed or damaged roots weaken the tree’s base, and the risk of it toppling increases.
Even small changes like sudden leaning or cracks that get wider are reasons to call for emergency tree removal. Early intervention will save your property and reduce the risk of injury.
Storm Damage
Trees are most vulnerable after a storm. Strong winds, lightning strikes and heavy rain can weaken the tree structure causing branches to break or trunks to split.
Some damage may be visible, but hidden issues like internal cracks or weakened branches may not show up until later. These can be hazards even after the storm has passed.
Post-storm inspections are crucial to assess the risks. If large limbs are broken or the tree shows severe structural damage, emergency removal may be needed.
Not addressing storm damage quickly can lead to more risks, especially in high-traffic areas or near homes.
Proximity to Structures
Trees too close to houses, garages or power lines can be a big risk especially if they’re diseased or weakened.
Branches can fall onto roofs or vehicles during high winds and cause costly damage. In worst cases, the tree can fall and block the road or create electrical hazards when entangled with power lines.
If you see a tree leaning towards your property or infrastructure it’s time to call in a pro for an assessment.
Removing the tree quickly will save your home, vehicles or public utilities.
Disease or Decay
Trees affected by disease or decay are often weakened to the point where they can no longer support their own weight.
Fungal growth, dead branches and rotting trunks are all signs that the tree is dying.
In some cases, treatment may be possible but when decay is advanced the tree can fall unexpectedly.
When you see signs of advanced decay or dead limbs act fast.
Emergency removal will prevent the tree from falling and damaging anything in its path and prevent the disease from spreading to nearby healthy trees.
After Vehicle Collisions or Accidents
Trees involved in an accident, like being hit by a vehicle, may have damage that’s not visible. Impact can weaken the internal structure of the tree making it more likely to fail over time.
Although the damage may look minor at first it’s crucial to get the tree professionally evaluated.
Even if the tree is still standing after an accident hidden cracks and stress points can make it dangerous.
A professional assessment will determine if the tree can be saved or if emergency removal is needed to prevent future problems.
Conclusion
Knowing when a tree is a risk is key to preventing damage to your property or yourself.
Whether it’s storm damage, disease or proximity risks, addressing these issues early will save you a lot of trouble later.
If in doubt call a professional tree removal service to manage the risk.
If you see any of the signs above don’t wait—call a qualified tree service to assess and if needed remove the tree safely and quickly.
