Hail, strong winds, and lightning can damage your trees. It’s important to check them for storm damage immediately after any major weather event. Some of your trees will need only minor pruning to restore their health and beauty, but others won’t be so lucky. Trees with structural damage will need to be removed so that they don’t cause property damage or injure someone.
When Tree Removal Is Necessary
There are specific red flags you can look for that indicate the need for tree removal. Look for deep cracks. Vertical or spiral ones that extend into the wood cause the tree’s main support to fail. If the trunk is split, you’ll know the tree can’t be saved.
A tree that’s suddenly leaning may also need removal. Severe leaning, such as a tree that’s tilting more than 15 degrees after a weather event, likely has a compromised root system. Look to see if the soil around the tree is mounded or cracked on the opposite side from the tilt. This tells you that its roots are being pulled out of the ground.
It’s normal for branches and leaves to come down during a storm, but there shouldn’t be major canopy loss. If your tree has more than 50% of its canopy missing, it won’t be able to produce the energy it needs for survival during its next growing season.
If you see exposed roots, or the ground is heaving around your tree, there’s extreme instability. Further, storms can reveal hollow pockets, pre-existing rot, and fungal growth. All of these weaken the integrity of the tree.
Inspect the bark on your trees. If over 50% of the bark around the tree’s trunk is torn away, the tree won’t be able to carry the nutrients it needs. It will most likely die.
When Storm Damage Requires Immediate Attention
After a storm, your tree may have large, broken limbs hanging in the canopy. These can fall at any moment. You need a professional tree service to remedy this situation as soon as possible.
If you have a tree or large limbs touching power lines, don’t attempt to remove them yourself. Call your local utility company immediately.
If a storm-damaged tree is leaning toward a public road, your house, or any other structure, don’t hesitate. The safety hazard this creates outweighs any benefit you could achieve by trying to save the tree.
If you’re unsure whether a tree can be saved, schedule an inspection with a professional arborist. Call Veteran Family Tree in Peoria, AZ whenever you think you may need emergency tree service.