Could a problematic tree cost you tens of thousands of dollars in property damage or, worse yet, hurt a family member?

The most typical warning signals that your tree will fall are likely to go unnoticed if you aren’t paying attention to your trees.

If a problematic tree is ignored for an extended period of time, it may eventually collapse on your home. You would be responsible for the repairs and any medical expenses if someone was hurt if it fell.

A young mother went out for a morning stroll in Central Park with a newborn strapped to her chest, two kids in a double stroller, when a huge elm tree fell on them. Her neck was broken, and her son’s skull was fractured.

You don’t want this to occur to you or your loved ones. For a list of 13 warning indicators to look out for that will help you recognize trees before they fall, click here. And you’ll be aware of when to contact us if a problematic tree needs to be removed.

Signs a Tree is Going to Fall

Dead Branches on Your Tree

A tree may develop root rot if it has dead branches. The tree is unable to feed its branches and leaves due to root rot.

Then, in an effort to rescue itself, the tree sheds its branches; the fewer branches, the less nutrition is required.

Branch dangers include falling and dead ones. Those dead tree limbs could fall directly on top of your house, or worse, hurt someone, with just one powerful wind blow.

The Trunk Has Hollow Places in It

Trees get cavities, but you can’t really go to the dentist to obtain a filling for them. Inadequate pruning is frequently the source of tree cavities, which are brought on by internal rot in the tree.

The cavity enlarges and the tree’s trunk weakens at the same time, just like with your teeth. When high winds blow, the branch or perhaps the entire tree will fall since it will eventually be unable to hold itself.

There is hope, though, if you see nice, strong wood surrounding the sunken chamber. The tree won’t likely break off or go over in this situation.

To make sure the cavities in your tree are secure, it is advisable to seek advice from a tree expert.

The Foundation Is Growing

The roots may decay. Furthermore, trees with decaying roots may be in danger of toppling. Although you cannot see roots since they are the dirt, it is difficult to detect this.

Dead branches, fluttering leaves, or mushrooms forming near the base can all serve as indicators. Often, the best sign of decaying roots is a fungus.

A qualified arborist should be consulted if you notice mushrooms growing at the base of your tree. They will assist in developing the best strategy for taking care of your tree.

Leaves Near the Trunk Are Missing

The inside should not be where leaves fall first. The leaves of a healthy tree usually fall from the outside in. Closest to the tree’s trunk, lost leaves indicate that the tree might be about to fall.

The root zone provides water and nutrients to trees. When leaves start to fall from the interior, the root zone has likely been weakened.

Without the necessary nutrients and moisture, a tree will become unhealthy and could topple over due to severe winds.

The Tree’s Trunk Is Slanting

Is your tree sagging by at least 15 degrees? It can be due to root damage or wind damage. But whatever one caused the lean, it’s likely that the tree needs to be cut down.

However, if the tree tilts naturally because it developed at an angle, it might not be as hazardous.

The direction that the tree is leaning is another factor to take into account with leaning trees. Because winds come from the west, trees that lean toward the east are more prone to fall.

Lightning Struck the Tree.

A tree can be internally damaged by lightning, which travels through the layers beneath the bark, while yet appearing fully normal. The tree can start to deteriorate days or weeks later.

You will see cracks down the trunk, blackened spots, or wilting leaves if it was hit on the outer layer.

The species, age, location, and health of the tree will all have a role in how it turns out, regardless of where the lightning strikes it. And even if the tree survives the lightning strike, it will be left vulnerable to viruses and insects, which will gradually damage it.

Your tree is being overtaken by vines

Some folks might enjoy the way vines adorn their trees. However, the vines create a substantial covering over the root when they cover the ground. A tree will succumb to fungal or bacterial illnesses if there are a lot of leaves and rain present.

The leaves conceal rainwater beneath the vines, allowing for significant structural damage at the base of the tree. Unfortunately, vines obscure the tree from vital sunlight and make it more difficult to detect damage.

If a tree on your property has vines growing on it, you might need assistance to get rid of the vines and keep the tree intact.