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How to Tell if a Tree Has Been Storm-Damaged and What to Do About It
The storm has passed your property, but you are left with questions. Is that trunk leaning for a reason or is it all in your head? And when do the warning signs warrant an immediate call to a pro?
We have been fielding those very questions from homeowners and businesses in Stark and Tuscarawas Counties since 2017 here at Taproot Tree Service, LLC. Should you have any misgivings about a tree’s condition after a storm, pick up the phone at (330) 481-5817. We do not put in our hours and neither do storms, so we are on hand 24/7.
It is easy for a storm to mask its work. A tree may seem in good order the day after an ice or wind event then let go of a heavy limb some days down the road. Then there are the ones that make their trouble plain. Being able to spot the difference is something that will serve your home, your family and your finances well. Here are the things to be on the lookout for.
Leaning Trunks and Roots
There is a message in a tree that has taken on a new lean in the wake of a storm. You will not find many trees that are perfectly straight, yet this is no natural inclination. Inspect the base of the trunk; heaved or cracked soil on one side is indicative of a root system that has come loose. A tree in such a state can give way with little notice. An arborist will know the distinction between a tilt of no consequence and one that is a problem. Get a consultation and you will avoid headaches further down the line.
Cracked or Split Trunks
Perhaps the most perilous form of damage is a crack in the main trunk. The stress of wind and ice is enough to put a deep split in the wood and undermine the whole tree. Be on the alert for:
- Vertical cracks
- Splits at the junction of the trunk and a large branch
- Large areas of missing bark
- Any open wound to the inner wood
- Gaps that appear to get wider in the wind
Do not put off dealing with a cracked trunk. One that is deeply compromised may have to be removed before it decides to fall.
Hanging and Broken Branches
Put in a slow walk around your trees and look up. Widowmakers is what they call broken branches left hanging in the canopy and you can see why; they have a mind of their own and can come down unannounced. Some are only put there by a bit of bark.
You would be surprised how many try to take these on and get hurt. Leave the high branches to us and our equipment. There is no sense in risking a ladder and chainsaw for a limb you cannot properly assess.
Uprooting and Root Damage
What is happening under the surface is as consequential as what is above it. With the roots being what keeps the tree put, look for any of the following after a bout of rain and wind:
- Soil pushed up at the base
- Lifted roots
- A wobble to the trunk
- Softened ground from standing water
It is not easy to make a call on root damage from the ground. Let an arborist tell you if the tree is a hazard or if it can be saved.
A Broken Top
High winds make short work of the top of a tree. A leader that is snapped or an upper canopy that is bare and broken puts the rest of the tree at risk of decay. Give it a good once over.
Make No Mistake
Just because a damaged tree has not fallen does not mean it will not. Each day in a weakened position is a day of mounting risk to your vehicles, your roof and those close to you. You are better off acting early, it is safer and more economical.
Our service area extends to Canton, Massillon, North Canton, Alliance, New Philadelphia, Sugarcreek, Wooster, Orrville, Barberton and points within 45 minutes of Waynesburg. We extend discounts to veterans, seniors and first responders and back our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and free estimates.
When in doubt, do not put your safety on the line. For a storm that has you concerned, call Taproot Tree Service, LLC at (330) 481-5817. We are available around the clock to see to it that what is important to you is protected.