Trees do not usually fall down without giving signs first. They start to show clues months or even years before. But most people walk past these signs every day when they go to the car and don’t notice them.
Here is what you need to watch for, and how you can tell the difference between a problem you just need to watch and one where you should call for help today.
The Signs That Mean Call Today
Some problems can’t be put off until next weekend. If you see any of the signs below, search for a reliable tree service near me and get someone out this week, not next season.
• A big limb broke and it now hangs down by a small piece of bark
• A new lean, often with the dirt moving up on the other side
• A split going down the trunk, or a split where two main stems join
• Branches resting on power lines
• Bark is coming off in big sheets, showing the bare wood.
All of these show that the tree is weak at this time. The wind, rain, or heavy snow can cause it to break completely.
The Signs That Mean Schedule a Visit Soon
Some warnings do not move as fast, but they still need someone skilled to see them in a few weeks. Look out for:
• Mushrooms or shelf fungi grow at the bottom or on the trunk of the tree. These are signs that the tree has decay fungi. When you see these, it often means rot is already inside the tree.
• Dead wood up top. When the top of the tree starts to die first, it can be a sign that the roots have a problem.
• Cavities and hollows. A little hole can be okay. A big one, where you can put your arm in, is not good.
• Root damage can happen when you dig a trench, put in a new patio, or pour a driveway on top of the root zone.
The Alabama Cooperative Extension System has a good guide for homeowners about how to spot dangerous trees. There is one thing it talks about that I wish more people knew. A tree is only called a danger if there is something under it that could get hurt or broken. A rotten oak far back in the woods is just something you can learn from nature. But if that same oak is over your kid’s room, it is a serious danger.
Why You Shouldn’t Just Wait and See
Waiting may feel like it costs nothing, but it often does. A limb that does not work will fall to the spot where the pull of the earth sends it. A limb taken away by the crew will fall where they want, with ropes to guide each part.
Insurance is important in this case too. A lot of insurance plans will not pay for damage if a tree had clear signs of decay before it fell. They see this as neglect. To protect yourself, get the tree checked and keep your records. This helps with the insurance, and it gives you proof if you need it.
There is also a cost part to think about. Removing a tree on purpose often costs less than having to do it after a storm hits. After a storm, everyone is busy, and that tree could end up stuck in your gutters. This makes it harder and pricier to get the help you need.
Your Five-Minute Monthly Walkaround
You do not have to get special training to see most of this. One time every month, walk by each tree near your house. Look at three different levels as you do this.
- The base. Fungi, cracked soil, and roots that are out in the open or hurt
- The trunk. Look for cracks, holes, sap coming out, or bark that is gone.
- The crown. You might see dead branches here. There can be thin leaves as well. Some small twigs may hang too.
Take a fast photo of each tree from the same place. By looking at the pictures each month, it will be much easier to see if there is a slow lean or if the top of the tree is getting thin. If you want a better idea of what people who know trees look for, this article on evaluating tree health is good to save and read later.
The Bottom Line
Your trees can show you when there is a problem. You need to watch and act fast if you see big signs. If you notice anything from the “call today” list in your yard, do not wait for the next big wind to make things worse. That is the best time to type “tree service near me” on your phone. A certified arborist can tell you clearly what is wrong before things get worse.
FAQ
Are mushrooms on a tree always a bad sign?
You won’t always see this, but mushrooms growing on the trunk or bottom of a tree could mean there is rot inside. It’s a good idea to get a professional to look at it.
Can a cracked trunk be repaired?
Sometimes, arborists will put in cables or braces. If a tree has deep or wide cracks, it often needs to be removed.
How much does a tree inspection cost?
Prices change based on where you are and how many trees you have. A lot of companies will give you a free or cheap checkup.
