How to tell if a tree is dangerous

​Ensuring that you and your property are safe from any tree hazards is a serious matter. Instead of being an asset, your tree can be a liability if you don't keep them in check. If you want to be sure that your tree is not a potential danger to any of your loved ones or properties, it is essential to have your trees assessed by the professionals. To help you further, we listed seven tell-tale signs that your tree is dangerous. 

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Broken, Hanging, and Damaged Limbs

Damaged limbs are one of the most visible signs of a dangerous tree. However, if you are not very skilled, you might miss this sign that your tree can be hazardous. It is especially hard to inspect limbs in the top of the tree. That is why professional arborists will use binoculars to have a better look of the tree top.

Dead Limbs

Not only damaged limbs are hazardous, but also dead limbs. You may not know it but your tree limbs may be dead and will fall anytime. Dead branches can cause the entire tree to decay if left unaddressed. If a dead limb is a problem, think of the trouble a whole dead tree can cause you.

​Changes in the Bark

Barks that develop too close to each other forms a "V" shape that can be in danger of splitting or breaking in the middle. Typically, proper pruning can resolve this issue. However, a lot of trees don't get regular pruning which results in this kind of tree concerns.

Leaning Tree

One of the first things the tree inspector would consider is the length of time the tree has been leaning. The tree expert will also discuss where the tree is leaning. If it leans towards your home or an area where many people pass, then it is a serious matter and needs to be resolved right way. There are trees that naturally lean, but if you are not sure, it is best to ask the professionals.

Root Damage

Roots are the foundation of the tree. If the root system is damaged, the whole tree will suffer. If not attended to immediately, the entire tree will gradually die. If your tree is wilting and the foliage is thinning, or there are many dead branches, maybe your tree needs help with the roots.

​Weakened Trees

If you have eliminated or cleared some trees in your yard for construction purposes, the remaining trees become exposed to the strong winds and other factors. They can be vulnerable to damages brought by the wind. Trees should be regularly inspected to avoid them from becoming weak.

Poor Structure 

Trees that grow in the forest compete with other trees when it comes to sunlight and nutrients. However, landscape trees create full canopies that can weaken through time. If your tree has a weak structure, it will be susceptible to damages that can make your tree dangerous to you and your property.

If you are unsure about your tree's health status, it is best to call a Cedar Rapids Tree Service to answer your questions.