Last weekend, the front range of Colorado experienced gusty winds of 20-30 MPH. And while that might not sound strong enough to cause any real damage to residential and commercial properties, it can spell trouble if you have dead trees which have yet to be safely removed.
One customer has been somewhat indecisive about having their dead trees taken away based on budget, location and timing. But this weekend’s unsuspecting wind gusts made the final decision for them.
A large, dead aspen tree fell during the night, with almost a clean break near the base of the trunk. Thankfully, no one was hurt and no damage was reported as it narrowly missed an outdoor wooden pergola and the corner of the house.
But the end result could have been a lot worse, and provides a warning to other residential and commercial property owners that leaving dead trees on your property is a dangerous gamble.
It’s important to remember that when a tree dies, it most certainly changes. Long before the tree finally perishes, it stops taking in nutrients and moisture – many times before the death of the tree is evident to the naked eye.
The lack of nutrients and moisture quickly begins to dry the tree out, causing it to become brittle, unstable and perhaps most concerning, unsafe.
Depending on the level of decay, a mild snow or windstorm can cause limbs to break off, and like the example above, break the entire tree from its base.
Large limbs are especially susceptible to breakage due to their weight and expanse, and can cause costly damage to decks/patios, vehicles, rooftops (with heavier limbs actually breaking through the roof), and people as they walk about the property.
So, before your trees make the decision of removal for you, consult a professional arborist today.
Having dead trees removed from your property is a serious undertaking. It requires years of experience and continued training to make sure technicians, neighbors, homeowners and structures remain safe throughout the removal process.
Important things to look for in a tree service company:
Give Swingle a call today for a free property evaluation.