Large or hazardous trees need to be safely removed. You don’t want to risk damaging your home or power lines by leaving them. These trees also pose a serious risk of injury to people.
Identifying a Hazardous Tree
The first step towards keeping your home and family safe is to know how to identify a hazardous tree. Look for dead or dying branches, and watch for broken, hanging limbs. If you find deep splits or cracks in the trunk or where branches fork, your tree may have a significant structural weakness. Hollows found in the tree’s trunk or limbs indicate decay or rot.
Check your tree’s roots carefully. If you find mushroom clusters or fungi growing at the base of the tree, the roots are likely rotten.
Sudden leaning is another red flag warning you of a hazardous situation. Watch for soil lifting or cracking on the opposite side of the lean. This indicates root failure.
Preparing for Tree Removal
Once you have determined that a tree is hazardous, you need to prepare for the removal. Begin by clearing the area around the tree. Remove vehicles and outdoor furniture to create a safe zone. You’ll also want to let your neighbors know when the tree will come down so they can properly prepare for it as well.
Your tree service company will also have steps for preparing your tree. This may include checking for dead branches, electrical lines, and unstable structures. Tarps or plywood might be put in place to protect heavy branches from damaging your lawn or gardens.
The Tree Removal Process
Large tree removal should always be handled by trained professionals. Tree service companies use sectional dismantling to remove large, hazardous trees. They use ropes, rigging, and pulleys to cut the tree into smaller pieces. This is done from the top down, safely lowering each piece. Bucket trucks make this job easier. In some cases, large trees threaten structural damage to the surrounding buildings and homes. To safely remove these trees, a crane will be used to lift away the sections. A good rigging system will safely lift limbs up and away, even in tight spaces.
Summer-Specific Considerations
Storms are a frequent occurrence during the summer. Removing structurally compromised trees is essential for preventing them from falling during inclement weather.
Your yard may be dry and cracked or oversaturated, depending on how the summer season goes. Water management may be necessary to properly prepare the ground for equipment stability.
Recognizing large hazardous trees and hiring a professional to remove them is key to property safety. Once they are gone, you’ll have a safe yard that you and your family can enjoy throughout the rest of your summer. If you live in Vallejo, CA or a surrounding area and need tree removal services, make your first call to E Z Tree.