Severe storms can cause devastating damage to trees, leaving them weakened and prone to further destruction. To prevent further damage, dealing immediately with storm-damaged trees is essential. Knowing how to assess the extent of the damage properly, what steps you should take, and how a professional can help are all important in determining the best course of action.
At Telford Tree Services, we understand the importance of maintaining healthy trees on your property. Our team is equipped to assess the extent of damage to your trees and provide advice on whether they need pruning or removal. We also offer emergency tree removal services for cases where fallen trees pose an immediate danger or block access to your property. Our skilled professionals are trained in using specialised equipment and techniques that minimise further damage to surrounding structures during tree removal.
Assessing Damage
Assessing the damage to a tree after a storm is crucial for determining what steps need to be taken next. Assess any wounds on the bark caused by falling debris. These wounds can provide entry points for diseases and pests that can weaken or kill the tree over time. It’s important to clean and treat these wounds properly, either by pruning or applying wound dressings.
Pruning Dead or Damaged Branches
When dealing with storm-damaged trees, it is crucial to prune dead or damaged branches as soon as possible. Pruning can help prevent further damage to the tree and surrounding property and promote new growth. However, it is essential to identify which branches need pruning and how much should be removed.
Start by assessing the extent of the damage and determining if the branch poses a safety risk or if it can recover on its own. If you decide that pruning is necessary, use sharp tools to make clean cuts just outside the branch collar (the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk). Always avoid leaving stubs or cutting into healthy wood.
Removing Fallen Trees
When a storm hits, trees are among the most vulnerable of all natural objects. Strong winds and heavy rains can cause limbs to snap or entire trees to uproot and fall over. In such instances, removing the fallen tree(s) as soon as possible is important.
Removing a fallen tree is a challenging feat. However, depending on the size of the tree and how it fell, you may need professional help. Before you attempt anything yourself, assess the situation by checking for any power lines that may have been knocked down or entangled in the branches. If there are downed power lines, stay away from them and call your local utility company immediately.
Preventing Future Damage
Storms can have a devastating impact on trees, leaving them vulnerable to future damage. To prevent further harm, inspecting the tree thoroughly and identifying any weak or damaged branches is essential. These should be removed immediately to prevent them from falling and causing injury. Removing all debris around the tree’s base is also wise, as this can provide a breeding ground for pests and diseases.
Ask for Professional Help
After a major storm or natural disaster, assessing the damage done to trees on your property is vital. While some minor damage can be handled by homeowners, more significant issues should be left to professionals. Seeking professional help for storm-damaged trees can save time and money in the long run and ensure safety.
Professional arborists are fully trained and equipped with the necessary tools to handle any tree-related emergency. They have experience in assessing damages, determining what needs to be done, and executing a plan of action to protect you and your property.
Conclusion
Dealing with storm damage on trees can be a challenging and sometimes dangerous task. It is important to assess the damage carefully and determine the best course of action based on the severity of the damage.
Remember preventative measures for future storms. Regular tree maintenance, such as pruning dead or weak branches, can help prevent serious damage during strong winds. By taking these steps and being prepared for severe weather events, you can help protect your property and keep your trees healthy for years.