Is a Leaning Tree Dangerous for Your Property?

Many homeowners schedule tree removal in Jefferson City, MO, to get rid of dead or unsightly vegetation. But is it necessary if there’s a leaning tree on your property?

In this guide, we’ll unpack some common causes of this issue, how you can assess the risk, and steps to take for optimal safety. 

A Tree’s Weight Shifts Because of Environmental Triggers 

Maples, oaks, and other species can either thrive or deteriorate depending on their natural environment. While all structures need soil, sunlight, and water to grow, there’s no guarantee that the trunk will remain upright. Structural weakness can occur due to natural circumstances, including:

• A lack of sunlight: Say a tree can only access sunlight in one area because of buildings or other structures blocking the path. It will naturally begin to grow in that direction to receive adequate energy from the sun. 
• Soil erosion: Soil displacement occurs over time and leads to root instability. In an area with severe soil erosion, leaning trees prove to be a common occurrence. 
• Heavy rains: Roots seek water to grow, but too much of it can oversaturate the system. Heavy rains and poor soil drainage often lead to root rot, which weakens the structure to the point of tilting to the side. 
• Forceful winds: Compromised structures tend to fall during a storm, but healthy trees aren’t immune to wind damage. Powerful gusts result in the trunk tipping at an angle. 
• Pests and diseases: Wood-boring insects and tree diseases can wreak havoc on your vegetation. Cavities may form in the trunk, making it less structurally sound and at risk of falling over. 

Assess the Structure’s Stability With an Arborist Inspection

When a canopy inches closer to your roof or utility lines, it’s easy to panic. However, leaning trees aren’t always an immediate cause for concern. Contact a local arborist about the issue and let them evaluate the area. 

Experts understand the risks that come with root instability and will perform a safety hazard assessment. Their findings will determine whether the structure should remain standing or whether it’s best to remove it. 

Explore Three Common Solutions for a Tilted Tree

What are your options for saving a leaning tree? Property owners typically have three choices when it comes to addressing this issue. Check out how you can decide what’s best for your property. 

1. Leave It Be

When an arborist deems no immediate threat to your safety, you’re free to leave the tree untouched. However, it’s vital that you continue to monitor any changes in its appearance and growth. Certain factors may cause it to lean at a more significant angle, which could require swift action. 

2. Try Straightening the Trunk

A leaning tree may not need to come down, but it’s not ideal for you to leave it as is. In this situation, experts recommend various tree-straightening techniques. 

Arborists can place stakes around small trees in hopes that they’ll grow upright and form a strong root system. For more developed structures, cabling and bracing proves effective. This involves installing sturdy rods and cables to stabilize weak branches and a vulnerable trunk. 

3. Remove the Compromised Tree

If the leaning tree on your property presents several safety hazards, it’s in your best interest to cut it down. Arborists typically recommend removal in the following scenarios:

• There’s an exposed root system: This shows evidence of soil erosion and increases the risk of uprooting in a storm. 
• It leans toward homes or power lines: Avoid extreme property damage before it’s too late. Remove the problematic tree so it no longer poses a threat to nearby structures. 
• Decay becomes widespread: There’s not much specialists can do when they find extreme root rot or a large trunk cavity. The decay will continue to worsen, leaving you with no choice but to remove the tree.

With a knowledgeable arborist overseeing the removal and stump grinding process, you can rest easy knowing that your property’s safety is no longer in jeopardy. 

Consult Our Certified Arborists for Superior Tree Services

A leaning tree may need some extra stability to remain upright or may require removal, especially if experts deem it to be a dangerous tree. If your vegetation undergoes sudden changes due to disease, soil erosion, or other environmental factors, reach out to Hentges Tree Service. 

We’ll provide peace of mind by performing a safety hazard assessment and recommending the best course of action. To request an estimate, give us a call at (573) 893-2896.