"Many fatal accidents and millions in property damage can be averted if homeowners heed the warning signs of a hazardous tree" (Robert Rouse Certified Arborist with the Tree Care Industry Association)
"By not paying attention to your trees, you are potentially placing your property, even your life, in jeopardy." (Robert Rouse Certified Arborist...)
Contact one of our Certified Arborists for a free hazard assessment of your trees. We will inspect your trees for structural defects that can lead to tree limb or trunk failures. We are also trained to identify and treat trees for sudden oak death. Trees with sudden oak death become weakened and are more likely to have failures.
Look for these clues that indicate a tree is prone to failure: Large trunks or branches that are attached with a high "V" shape. These trunks should be pruned to reduce hazards. Other warning signs include hollow areas or cavities which indicate an area of decay. In addition holes made by woodpeckers can indicate an area of decay and weakness. Check trees for dead or broken branches in the canopy. Are there any mushrooms or growths near the trunk or roots of the tree? Has the tree been topped? Topping trees creates decay and weak attachment of the branches that regrow after the tree is topped. Construction impacts can also affect tree stability. Damage to roots or compaction can cause root loss and may lead to failure of the entire tree. Check for cracks in trunks or branches. Trees with a high degree of lean are also more likely to have failures. Watering near the trunks of oaks and other trees can cause root fungi to develop that damage and weaken the roots. Trees with heavy canopies are more likely to have failures during high winds or storms.
The best way to reduce your exposure to tree failures is by having a Certified Arborist inspect your trees regularly. Certified Arborists are trained to look for the clues that can lead to failures and provide trees with the proper care to reduce hazards and promote better health.
For more information visit our web site at treeprosonoma.com or visit the web sites of the International Society of Arboriculture or the Tree Care Industry Association. These sites provide contact information for Certified Arborists in your area.