Spring in Texas brings unpredictable weather—one day it’s warm and sunny, the next, severe storms roll in with strong winds, heavy rain, and even hail. If you have trees on your property, it’s important to make sure they’re stable and healthy before storm season hits. A hazardous tree can become a major liability, putting your home, business, vehicles, and even people at risk.
At Leaf Tree Services, we specialize in tree trimming and tree removal services to help homeowners and business owners keep their properties safe. Below, we’ll walk you through the warning signs of a dangerous tree, the risks of ignoring tree hazards, and what you can do to prevent damage before the next Texas storm arrives.
Signs You May Have Unstable Trees
Not all tree hazards are obvious. Some trees may look fine at a glance but could have hidden structural issues that make them vulnerable to breaking or falling. Here are some key warning signs that indicate a tree may be a safety risk.
1. Cracks or Splits in the Trunk or Large Branches
If you notice deep cracks or splits in a tree’s trunk or main branches, it could be a sign of internal decay. These structural weaknesses make trees more likely to snap, especially in high winds. Cracks can be caused by:
- Previous storm damage
- Heavy weight from overgrown limbs
- Disease or internal rot
What to do: If you see large cracks in your tree, call a tree removal expert to assess whether the tree is stable or needs to be taken down before it falls.
2. Dead or Dying Branches
A tree with a lot of dead or dying branches is a warning sign that it may be struggling. These branches are more likely to break off during storms, which can cause damage to your roof, fence, or parked vehicles.
How to check:
- Are the branches missing leaves when they should be full?
- Do the limbs snap off easily with no flexibility?
- Is there fungus growing on the limbs?
Solution: A professional tree trimming service can remove dead branches safely, reducing the risk of falling limbs during a storm.
3. Leaning or Uprooted Trees
A tree that suddenly starts leaning is a major red flag. If the soil around the base of the tree appears lifted or cracked, it could be at risk of falling, especially if the ground becomes saturated from heavy rain.
Common causes of leaning trees:
- Weak root system
- Soil erosion after flooding
- Wind damage from previous storms
If a tree is leaning more than 15 degrees from its normal position, it should be evaluated immediately. In many cases, tree removal services are necessary to prevent property damage.
4. Hollow or Decayed Trunk in Weak Trees
A healthy tree should have a solid trunk. If you tap on the trunk and it sounds hollow, or if you see large sections of missing bark or holes, the tree may be rotting from the inside. Hollow trees are more likely to collapse in strong winds.
Signs of internal decay:
❌ Mushrooms or fungi growing at the base
❌ Bark peeling off in large sections
❌ Carpenter ants or termites present
If 30% or more of the trunk is hollow, the tree should be removed before it falls unexpectedly and damages your property or people walking nearby.
5. Weak or Overextended Branches
Trees with long, overgrown limbs are more susceptible to breaking in high winds. When branches extend too far from the trunk, they create a leverage effect that increases the chances of splitting.
Professional tree trimming can:
1. Reduce excessive weight on weak limbs
2. Prevent branches from overhanging your house, power lines, or driveway
3. Improve overall tree health by redistributing nutrients
Spring is an ideal time for tree trimming to ensure trees are stable before Texas storm season.
Why Ignoring Weak Trees Can Be Costly
Failing to address hazardous trees before storm season can lead to expensive damages and even personal injury. Here’s why you should act fast:
🏠 Property Damage: A falling tree can destroy roofs, vehicles, fences, and power lines, leading to costly repairs.
⚡ Power Outages: Trees that fall onto power lines can knock out electricity for an entire neighborhood.
🩹 Injuries & Liability: If a tree on your property injures someone, you could be held financially responsible.
By scheduling tree trimming and tree removal services, you’re making a proactive investment in your property’s safety.
How to Prevent Tree Hazards Before Storm Season
The best way to avoid tree-related disasters is through preventative maintenance. Here’s what you can do:
1. Schedule a Tree Inspection
Hiring a Certified Arborist to inspect your trees can help detect issues before they become serious problems. Tree risk assessments identify weak limbs, root problems, and potential disease before they cause harm. These services are not free but they are a lot less expensive that a damaged property or people.
2. Invest in Tree Trimming Services
Proper tree trimming reduces risks of hazardous trees by removing:
✂️ Weak or overgrown limbs
✂️ Branches hanging over structures
✂️ Deadwood that could break off in high winds
Pruning trees regularly also encourages healthier growth, making them more resilient to storms.
3. Remove Unstable Trees Before They Fall
If a tree is beyond saving—whether due to disease, decay, or storm damage—it’s best to remove it before it causes harm. Professional tree removal services ensure that trees are taken down safely and efficiently, preventing property damage and injury.
Trust Leaf Tree Services for Expert Tree Care
At Leaf Tree Services, we provide professional tree trimming and tree removal throughout Round Rock, Georgetown, Austin, Cedar Park, Leander, and surrounding areas. Our Certified Arborists have years of experience identifying and eliminating tree hazards, ensuring your property stays safe before, during, and after storm season.
🌳 Why Choose Us?
-ISA-Certified Arborists with expert knowledge
-Safe and efficient tree removal techniques
-Emergency tree services available after storms
-Competitive pricing with free consultations
Schedule Your Tree Inspection Today!
With Texas storm season approaching, now is the time to take action and ensure you don’t have hazardous trees and limbs. Don’t wait until it’s too late—protect your home and commercial property with professional tree trimming and tree removal services.
📞 Call 512-670-6766 today for a FREE tree assessment!
📩 Or Contact Us Here to schedule an appointment.
Let’s keep your property safe, one tree at a time! 🌿