Trees can add beauty and shade to properties, but they can also become too large and dangerous. This isn't an overnight process; there are always warning signs that a tree is becoming hazardous. However, many homeowners don't know what they are or don't actively look out for them. Not calling tree services early enough can result in costly damage to your property and risks to your safety. Here are the signs you need to know.

Dead or Dying Branches

One of the most common risks trees pose is the risk of dead branches falling. This can happen easily in storms and high winds, and it poses a real danger to anyone or anything underneath the tree. Fortunately, you can often spot dead or dying branches long before they fall. They're usually leafless, brittle, or already starting to break off. If you see branches like that, call tree removal services to have them removed safely.

Visible Decay or a Hollow Trunk

Dead branches can often be removed individually, as the whole tree may still be healthy and alive. However, it is possible for entire trees to become at risk of toppling over. What you need to look for are fungi, soft spots, or hollowed-out areas inside the trunk. These are signs that a tree's trunk may lack the strength to remain upright under pressure. Professional tree cutting services may be required to remove it.

Leaning Trees

Another sign that a tree is at risk of toppling over is if it starts leaning. This often means its roots have weakened, or the soil has eroded and cannot support it. If it's leaning more than 15 degrees, hire a tree removal service to take it away before it causes harm. Be aware, however, that the stump is usually left behind. Hawkesbury tree services, for example, tend to offer stump grinding as an add-on.

Growing Close to Power Lines

While trees are not good conductors of electricity, they still pose serious risks when they grow too close to power lines. Branches could fall onto the lines and break them, especially during storms, or contact with the lines could cause the tree to catch fire. These are clear signs your tree needs professional care from an experienced tree cutting services provider. The electricity makes it too dangerous to try to deal with the issue yourself.

Pest Infestations

You should also look out for sawdust piles around your tree, holes in the bark, or increased bird activity. These could be signs that pests like termites or carpenter ants have made your tree their home. They can quickly burrow through the wood inside the tree's trunk, causing internal damage and weakening its structure. Calling pest control can help if you spot them early enough, but this is rare. Tree removal services are usually needed.

Conclusion

There are many good reasons to have trees on your property, but there are just as many to have them trimmed or removed. If you notice any of these signs, always speak to expert arborists rather than try to deal with it yourself. They're trained to manage the risks of tree work, and they'll be able to tell you the best solution for your tree, which isn't always removing it.