How to Tell When a Tree Needs to Be Removed
Trees add beauty, shade, and value to your property, but sometimes they can become a hazard. Whether due to disease, storm damage, or structural issues, knowing when to remove a tree is crucial for safety and property protection. Here’s how to tell when a tree needs to be removed.
1. Visible Signs of Disease or Decay
A sick tree may not always show obvious symptoms, but some warning signs include:
- Discolored or wilting leaves outside of normal seasonal changes.
- Fungal growth (such as mushrooms at the base) indicating internal decay.
- Cracked, peeling, or hollow bark which weakens the tree’s structure.
- Dead branches that easily snap off, known as "dieback."
If a significant portion of the tree shows signs of disease, removal may be necessary to prevent spreading and ensure safety.
2. Large, Dead, or Hanging Branches
Broken or dead branches, especially in the upper canopy, pose a serious risk of falling. If more than 50% of the tree's branches are dead, the tree may not survive much longer.
Additionally, hanging limbs caught in the tree after a storm can be unpredictable and dangerous. These should be removed immediately by a professional.
3. Severe Leaning or Structural Instability
Not all leaning trees are a problem, but if you notice a sudden or increasing tilt, it could indicate root damage or instability. Signs of concern include:
- Leaning more than 15 degrees from vertical.
- Exposed roots lifting from the soil.
- Cracks or splits in the trunk, which weaken its structural integrity.
Such trees are at high risk of falling and should be inspected by a tree care specialist.
4. Damage from Storms or Lightning
High winds, heavy snow, or lightning strikes can significantly weaken a tree. Some storm-damaged trees recover with proper pruning, but if the trunk is split or over 50% of the canopy is lost, removal may be the safest option.
5. Roots Causing Property Damage
Tree roots can disrupt sidewalks, driveways, and even home foundations. If roots are lifting pavement, breaking underground pipes, or threatening your home’s structure, removal might be necessary to prevent costly repairs
6. Pest Infestation
Certain insect infestations, like emerald ash borers, termites, or carpenter ants, can weaken a tree from the inside. Signs of infestation include:
- Small exit holes in the bark where insects emerge.
- Sawdust-like frass (insect waste) around the base.
- Thinning foliage or dead branches despite proper care.
If pests have severely compromised the tree, removal is often the best course of action.
7. The Tree Is Too Close to Structures or Power Lines
A tree that grows too close to your home, garage, or power lines can pose a serious risk, especially during storms. If tree trimming isn’t enough to maintain clearance, full removal may be the safest choice.
8. The Tree Has Stopped Growing
If a tree has stopped growing or produces very few leaves, it may be dying. Compare it to nearby trees of the same species—if it's significantly weaker, sparser, or fails to bloom, it could be time for removal.
Call a Professional for Assessment
If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s best to consult a certified tree expert. At Higher Ground Tree Service, we provide professional tree inspections, tree removal, and trimming to keep your property safe.
🌳 Need help determining if your tree should be removed? Contact us today for a free evaluation!
