Look out for your safety and protect yourself from a tree hazard by looking out for six signs that indicate it’s time to call a qualified arborist.
Trees surely make your property look greener and more attractive, but sometimes, they can become more troublesome than they’re worth.
Healthy trees stand tall and add that pop of nature to the yard, but when something’s not quite right, such as decaying or dead roots, things can quickly go sideways, costing you about $10,000 in repairs, not to mention the risk it poses to lives and nearby infrastructure.
If you’re residing on the Surf Coast, you should keep an eye out for signs of tree trouble because the strong Surf Coast winds don’t make it any better.
Prevent danger and the risk of falling trees by looking out for the tree that may become a hazard. Here’s what to look for when deciding if your tree needs professional help. If you have it unfigured, consult Ocean Road Tree Services for safe and efficient tree removal.
- A Sudden Lean or Shift
A slight lean? No big deal—it might just be how the tree has grown over the years. But if a tree suddenly tilts, it’s waving a big red flag.
Heavy rains, strong winds, or shifting soil, especially on the Surf Coast, could be the culprits, leaving the roots struggling to hold on.
A tree with unstable roots is one gust away from disaster. Don’t leave it to chance—call in a qualified arborist to check it out and keep things safe.
- Mushrooms Are Growing Around the Base
Mushrooms near or on your tree might seem harmless, but they’re an obvious sign of trouble brewing beneath the surface. This indicates fungal growth, which can rot the roots or trunk from the inside out.
This also weakens the tree and increases the risk of it toppling over. As soon as you notice any fungal growth, contact an expert before the problem becomes worse.
- Hollow Spots or Cavities
A hollow tree may still look sturdy, but the damage inside tells a different story. Hollow spots or cavities often form when fungi eat away at the wood, creating weak points in the trunk.
Birds and insects might love the hollow trunk, but the tree becomes unpredictable, which makes it a clear threat to your safety.
If the tree seems compromised, it’s an early sign indicating that you have some serious tree trouble at your door. You can consult a professional arborist to get an idea about the extent of damage.
- Branches Are Falling Without Cause
Strong winds and storms on the Surf Coast may cause the branches to fall, but healthy-looking branches dropping for no reason are an indication of tree trouble.
Branches that randomly fall off without an apparent cause usually have decay at the site of the break. The decay may also affect other parts of the tree, turning it into a safety hazard.
- Nearby Trees Have Fallen
If a tree near yours has recently come down, it’s worth taking a closer look at the ones still standing. Trees in groups often provide wind resistance for one another.
Trees that are a part of a clump cannot stand the heavy winds on their own. When one tree falls, others also become vulnerable.
Besides this, falling trees in the same area also indicate that something is affecting the soil, such as pathogens, fungus, or even pests that weaken the tree roots.
- Your Tree Has Multiple Trunks
Multi-trunked trees do look unique and instantly capture your attention, but they’re more prone to structural issues. Trees with multiple trunks have a weak connection point between the trunks, which puts them at risk of falling.
Big trees with splitting trunks are a threat to the nearby structures and people. If you notice multiple trunks, it’s time to contact an arborist who can assess and recommend the best course of action.
Don’t Take Risks With Your Trees
Spotting these signs gives you a better idea about the tree at risk. Acting quickly can save you from property damage and a potential safety hazard. If you’re unable to look for the signs, consult a qualified arborist from Ocean Road Tree Services.
We can assess the health and stability of the trees on your property to rule out whether tree removal is necessary or not. If your tree isn’t at risk of falling, tree pruning and tree trimming might restore its health.
Whatever the case, Ocean Road Tree Services is here to help. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote and let our arborists ensure your property stays safe, beautiful, and fully functional!
