by Brianna Crandall — January 27, 2016—Winter storms can cause tremendous stress and severe damage to trees in the “urban forest,” points out the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA). Snapped or downed trees should be removed, but what about a tree that only suffers minor damage? How can a property owner or manager tell if a tree is safe enough to keep?
Assessing the damage
Minor damage — with only the smallest branches of the tree being injured — usually results in little or no permanent injury to the tree. All that is required is cleanup of the broken twigs and branches, and perhaps a crown cleaning to restore a pleasing shape.
More severe damage — large broken branches, split crotches, removal of bark, and splitting or splintering of the trunk — can be caused by strong winds and heavy ice storms, and requires more maintenance.
When a tree is severely damaged, home and building owners and managers must ask, “Is this tree safe, and in good enough condition to keep?” A tree care professional should be consulted to answer this question, says TCIA.
“Most arborists will take the time and effort to save a tree only if the tree will still be healthy, attractive, and of value to the property owner after repairs,” said Tchukki Andersen, BCMA, CTSP, and staff arborist for the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA).
“A tree care expert may recommend removal of a tree that has brittle wood, or if the branch structure makes it vulnerable to damage from future storms. Trees that have been topped by storms, for example, can be prime candidates for removal.”
Other factors to consider when determining if a tree is worth saving:
- Species: Is this type of tree prone to pests and other problems?
- Age: Is the tree mature or over-mature?
- Vigor: What health condition was the tree in before the damage?
- Value it adds to the property: Does the tree still have value, even if partially damaged?
- Sentimental value: Is the tree a living monument?
If a tree is not worth saving, it should be removed as soon as possible. If it is not removed and the tree dies, it could become a hazard tree. Removal of hazard trees is dangerous to the tree care crew and requires special techniques, adding to the cost, notes TCIA.
Treating the tree
If the property owner decides to save the tree, the next question is: “Am I capable of repairing the damage myself, or should I seek professional help?” Major repair will undoubtedly require the use of a chain saw and climbing equipment. Unless one is experienced in the use of such equipment and comfortable working off the ground, it is best to use a competent professional.
Inspect trees for damage after a storm. If a tree has hazards, such as broken, hanging limbs or a split branch union (sometimes called a branch fork), the owner should have a reputable tree care company give an assessment. This is important because the property owner could be held liable if the hazard branch or tree falls and damages property or causes personal injury.
Find a professional
The Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) maintains a directory of professional arborists for property owners who would like a professional arborist to assess their trees, and offers a Tree Care Tips Web site for more information.
