[slideshow_deploy id='217134′]
Editor's Note: With severe weather season in full swing, it's a good idea to minimize storm debris risks around the exterior of your home. One way is to remove dead or sick trees that could fall onto structures or other valuables. The following tree removal tips were submitted by Davey.com.
9 Ways to Tell It's Time for Tree Removal or trimming
- Watch for open cavities in a tree’s trunk. These can create weak spots in the entire structure.
- Dead wood – Dead trees and large, dead branches can fall at any time.
- Cracks – Deep splits through the bark extend into the wood of the tree. Internal or external cavities.
- Decay – In advanced stages, soft wood or cavities where wood is missing can create hazardous conditions.
- Weak branch unions – Two or more branches grow too closely together, with bark growing between them. This bark does not hold the branches together.
- Heavy canopies – Excessively thick branches and foliage catch more wind during stormy weather. This increases the risk of branch breakage and uprooting.
- Cankers – Caused by fungi, cankers occur on the stems or branches of trees (bark is sunken or missing). Stems or branches are prone to breaking off near cankers.
- Root problems – Without a strong root system, trees are more likely to be uprooted or blown over in stormy weather. Look out for nearby construction that may sever large roots or compact the soil too much to allow for healthy root growth.
- Poor tree architecture -This is characterized by excessive leaning of the tree, or branches growing out of proportion with the rest of the tree crown. Odd growth patterns may indicate general weakness or structural imbalance.
Tips for Tree Removal and Pruning
- Regular tree maintenance can mean a world of difference when it comes to tree strength during a storm.
- Strong branches = stronger tree
- Although defective trees are dangerous, not all of them need to be removed immediately, and some defects can be treated to prolong the life of the tree.
- Proper pruning thins the tree canopy, allowing wind to blow through it instead of against it as though it were a sail. Pruning also removes potentially hazardous dead or weak branches.
- Not all tree risks are visible or obvious. If you're especially concerned about a tree, a certified arborist can evaluate soil conditions, wind exposure, defects, overall health and other factors to determine a tree’s hazard potential.
From rolling blackouts to hurricanes, floods to tornadoes, power can go out at a moment's notice. If the grid fails, the PowerPot will keep you charging! The PowerPot thermoelectric generator converts any heat source directly into power that charges your USB handheld devices. Get Yours Now
