When is a tree not a tree? When it’s a hazard. We all love trees they give us oxygen and cool air and shade. But when the trees damage or health declines it could be a danger to be around.
The tree’s internal damage can’t be fully evaluated from the outside and the behavior of a tree declining can’t always be predicted. But there are ways to identify signs of serious damage to make sure our tree does not become a hazard.
Visible signs to look for that a tree might be a hazard:
- Root damage
- Poor Crown form
- Cracked or split bark
- Decay
Without a strong and healthy root system, a tree can become unbalanced and hazardous. Damage can occur in many different ways including:
- When tree roots are severed to install paving or other construction
- If people walk on or drive over the top surface of the roots
- When roots decay and no longer act as supports
The tree’s biggest protection is this bark. Bark keeps insects and disease from getting in. When a tree bark cracks or splits it is exposed to decay.
Take a look at the trees around your home today and see if there are any hazards to be found.