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Trees can add visual excitement to your property. But sometimes, especially with older homes, you need to remove them. You may remove trees because you want to change your view or rearrange your landscaping. There are also cases that you need to remove a tree because it threatens your house or safety. It isn’t always clear whether a tree needs to be removed, however. That’s why you should review these four warning signs so that you can decide if it’s time to schedule tree removal services.

1. The Tree is Dead or Dying

There are many reasons that a tree might die. It may contract a parasite or insect infestation. It could be competing with other trees for soil nutrients and sunlight. Or, it may have been pruned or trimmed in a way that made it vulnerable to disease or rot.

It may be obvious that a tree is faring poorly. Perhaps a flowering tree fails to bloom or it starts dropping leaves like crazy during the wrong time of year. However, you may need to look more closely to make certain there’s a health issue.

  • Check for chipped or peeling bark.
  • Peel off a little and look for dark, dried-out wood underneath.
  • Look for cracked, dying branches or fungi growing on the trunk or roots.

Note that, sometimes, living things exist in symbiosis with no negative impact. Just because you see moss or lichen, for example, doesn’t mean anything is wrong.

When in doubt about your tree’s health, call a professional arborist to assess the tree. They can determine whether tree removal is necessary.

You can also help extend the life of trees by scheduling regular tree trimming and pruning. In addition to clearing away unnecessary limbs or growths, this has the benefit of making your trees look their best!

2. The Tree is Growing in a Problematic Spot

The thing about trees is, they grow. When somebody plants one, they won’t always have a clear idea what the surroundings will look like in years or decades. Even a healthy tree can pose certain dangers if it’s in the wrong location.

Are any of your trees growing under power lines? If so, keep an eye on them as they get closer.

Next, look at how close trees are growing to your house. If they’re too close, the roots can pose risks for the foundation as they grow. Look for clues like disturbed ground or pavement alongside the house.

Trees tend to ignore property lines, too. If your trees are starting to encroach on the neighbors’ yard, you need to at least prune, but possibly remove the tree.

3. The Tree is a Hazard to your Safety or Property

Among the top reasons to remove dead trees is that they can impact safety. If the tree is dead or dying, branches—or the whole tree—can fall and injure someone or at a minimum damage your house, cars, and other property.

When considering whether to remove a dead tree, consider these other safety questions as well.

  • Are there threats to your physical safety?
  • Is the tree in a location where someone might stumble into it in the dark?
  • Are there bulging roots that might trip someone?

Think about yourself, your family, and any children or pets who might play in your yard.

In addition, dense trees can block the view of a home’s doors and windows from the street. Hidden entrances create opportunity for thieves.

4. Your Homeowners’ Insurance Tells You to Remove a Tree

You might think no one cares more about the state of your trees than you. However, your homeowner’s insurance provider might care whether you remove that tree, too.

Check their regulations about how close a tree can be to your home and the amount of clearance between your roof and the lowest branches. Watch out for large branches close enough to the windows that they might cause damage during heavy storms.

Your insurance company may offer personalized advice or requirements with regard to tree trimming or removal. Familiarize yourself with what they require to avoid potentially having a claim refused.

When It’s Time to Call Tree Removal Professionals

Remember that removing a tree can be difficult and dangerous. It’s always a good idea to hire an experienced arborist to remove trees. They have the correct tools, training, and equipment. An arborist can advise you on when to remove trees versus letting them grow. And they can handle the hard work and even grind the stump and remove the waste.

When you suspect it’s time to remove a tree, don’t wait until it’s too late and you’re dealing with property damage or an injury. Protect your property and your family by hiring a tree removal professional.

To request a free quote for tree removal, please contact Townsend Residential.