As a property owner, it is important to watch for a number of signs that a tree in your yard is at risk. Unstable trees can cause property damage and put people in danger. Here are five common signs a tree should be removed from your property.
1. Large Dead Branches Mean a Tree Should be Removed
A few dead branches on a large tree is fairly common but if there are a lot of dead branches on a tree it can be a sign that the whole tree is dying. Test multiple branches on a tree to determine the health of the tree.
The best way to tell if a branch is dead is by taking a small twig and bending it gently. If it is pliable and bends easily, the branch is still alive. A dead tree located close to a building or where people gather is a fall risk and the tree should be removed from your property.
2. Rotted Wood and Fungus
A tree may have a fungal infection for years before any external symptoms show. Any signs of rotted wood or fungus mean damage to the tree is significant and the tree should be removed from your property.
Damage to a tree caused by animals, storms, or bad pruning can expose areas for fungus to form. The fungus will weaken the inside of the tree by breaking down the wood. Mushrooms at the base of the tree or conks found on other parts of the tree are signs that a tree is decaying from fungus.
3. Trunk and Root Damage
Construction projects near trees are one of the main causes of trunk and root damage. Tree roots are more vulnerable than the trunk and grow farther out from the tree than you may think.
When the root system is compromised, it can cause the tree to become unstable. If you find vertical cracks or large old wounds on a tree trunk, it could be dying. Contact an arborist to see if the tree should be removed from your property.
4. Leaning Trees
When a mature tree forms a sudden lean it can be a symptom of a weakened root system. Leaning trees are a fall risk and can damage property or hurt someone. If a tree has been uprooted and a majority of the roots are damaged or exposed, the tree is a loss and should be removed from your property.
5. A Tree Should Be Removed if it is in a Certain Location
Trees located too close to your foundation or power lines are dangerous, and the tree should be removed from your property. The root system of your tree can penetrate cracks and weak points of your foundation. causing structural damage.
Trees located too close to power lines can cause power failures or damage the lines, especially during wet weather. Plant large trees at least twenty feet from your home to avoid overhanging branches or a risk to your foundation. They should also only reach a mature height of twenty-five feet if they are located near a powerline.
DJR Home Inspections offers home inspections to customers in central and southern New Jersey. Contact us to request our services.