If you don’t know what to look for a tree defect can cause a significant hazard to you and your home. When we are able to identify and manage tree defects it can prevent catastrophes and life-threatening damages.

Tree defects are structural in nature and can result from disease, poetry architecture, or injury. Defects can cause a tree or branch to fall and damage or injure people. Here are some ways to identify manage deadly tree defects:

  • Cracks in branches or tree trunks. When you can see past the bark of the tree into the lighter colored inner wood you have identified a crack. If the crack is located on a branch from the branch collar it can be pruned off the tree. However, if the crack is located on the trunk you may have to have the tree removed.
  • Weak branch unions. Look at the branch where the tree meets the trunk, the branch collar, or branch bark ridge, if the branch collar is missing there is weak branch attachment.
  • Poor crown or tree architecture. Poorly maintained or unmaintained trees can present several defects. Look at the majority of the crown of the branches that lead into the trunk. If the tree looks lopsided, the tree’s architecture should be addressed.
  • Leaning trees. If the lean is greater than 15°degrees removal of the tree should be considered to avoid any damage. 
  • Loof for signs of tree decay. Once you have identified signs of decay, have a tree risk assessment performed as quickly as possible to determine whether it should be removed.

After inspection, deadly tree defects should be addressed immediately.