Contemplating whether or not to remove a tree on your Salem property is never an easy decision. It’s also an emotional one. Because trees are one of the Earth’s longest living creatures, they often hold sentimental value making them important to a family. That’s why the decision to remove it can be hard.
If a tree is deemed hazardous, it has the potential of falling limbs or falling over completely, making it dangerous to both people and property. That’s why Westcoast Tree Care would like to provide you with the following guide of determining factors of a tree removal.
Determining Factors Of A Tree Removal
Tree Health
If a tree is more than 50% damaged it can be deemed hazardous and must be removed as soon as possible. A tree in this state of decline may pose a serious risk to people and property nearby. Make sure to visually inspect the tree for signs of halted growth, strange appearance or odd shape. Yellow and brown leaves or a sudden loss of leaves during the growing season are other indications a tree is in decline.
Hollow Tree
A hollow tree is a sure indication of a hazardous tree. While a hollow tree may still be standing, it’s compromised trunk strength makes it a very dangerous risk. If you have a hollow tree on your property, it’s more than likely that it should be removed ASAP.
Trunk Damage
Cracks, seams, and visible wounds are all signs of trunk damage that indicate a tree is in decline. Even more, if a tree has suffered from a traumatic impact, it’s more than likely it will need to be removed. However, if a tree is 25% or less damaged, it’s possible it can heal naturally but you will need to consult a certified arborist about its recovery.
Dead Branches
Trees with visible dead branches are a direct danger to nearby people and property. If fewer than 25% of the branches of a tree are damaged or dead it is possible for a tree to recover. However, it’s important to contact a certified arborist to remove any deadwood as soon as possible.
Leaning Tree
Trees are vertical creatures. If a tree suddenly starts to lean to one side or the other, it can indicate damage or a compromised root system. If a tree suddenly leans more than 15 degrees to one side, it should be removed promptly.
Close To Power Lines
Trees located near power lines should be professionally trimmed by a certified arborist to prevent power failure and property damage. However, you should never attempt to trim a tree near a power line yourself due to the risk of injury or death.
Tree History
Botched or excessive pruning jobs can pose serious risks down the road. Even more, trees that have been topped can develop significant damage to the root system and prevent a tree from growing properly. Changes to the soil or root system can also cause a tree to decline. While it may take years to develop, complex issues can arise due to the history of a tree. However, if caught early, a tree has the possibility of being saved with the help of a certified arborist.
Surrounding Environment
Trees located near rocky ledges or bodies of water tend to develop shallow root systems. In rural areas, the canopy of a tree can grow horizontally rather than vertically because it doesn’t have to compete with other trees for sunlight with can cause weak branches. Even more, removing trees from a cluster of trees can expose them to excessive sunlight, causing significant stress or even death within a few years.
Adequate Space
It’s never wise to plant large trees within 20 feet of nearby buildings. If you have large trees encroaching on your home, it’s best to have them regularly trimmed or removed completely to prevent unwanted property damage.
Vancouver Tree Removal
While there are a variety of reasons that may warrant the removal of a tree, you can trust Westcoast Tree Care to provide you with the best possible advice and preventative tree care services. When it comes time to have a tree removed from your Vancouver property, contact our certified arborist today at 1.800.767.8733. We will take the time to personally walk your property, and provide you with the best possible recommendations along with a no-cost, no-obligation quote.
