If you’ve lived in Greenville for a few years, you’ve likely seen or experienced the tree damage storms can cause. Whether it’s from strong winds, hail, lightning, or floods, the increased number of intense storms can negatively impact your trees’ health while threatening your own safety.
One way to prevent hazardous conditions after a storm is by inspecting the trees on your property. Inspecting trees not only ensures they stay healthy, but also decreases their risk to structures, powerlines, and people, preventing further damage and mitigating the potential for injury. These three simple tips can help you get started:
Proceed with caution
When heading outside to inspect trees for damage after a storm, take inventory of the power lines surrounding your property. If any have fallen, contact Duke Power immediately. Never attempt to touch or move wires, whether you believe them to be live or not.
Assess the damage
The first sign of tree damage will likely be visible within the leaves and branches (the “crown”). Broken branches should be cut down to the trunk clean and flush to ensure that the tree does not develop additional damage or disease through the broken limb. Though there may be problem branches, it is crucial not to over-prune, even areas look uneven. Smaller branches and leaves will grow back over time. Cutting healthy branches and limbs could create vulnerabilities within the tree.
Damage to the trunk may not be as easy to see. Check for cracks that are several inches long, appearing on one or two sides of the tree. It is especially important to check for cracks in areas that have previously shown signs of decay. If the tree’s bark is jagged, harmful insects and fungi could breed, killing the tree. When it comes to smoothing out a tree’s trunk, a Greenville tree service professional should complete it—without damaging the inner bark, which provides the tree with critical nutrients.
If any roots are exposed, there is likely instability, which could result in the tree falling. From a distance, note if the tree is leaning in any particular direction, but do stay back. If necessary, alert any neighbors about the tree’s potential fall path, informing them of your next steps.
Contact a professional
When it comes to tree damage after a storm, it is best to hire a professional to provide insight into the appropriate course of action and the risk for further damage. A professional service in Greenville will also have the equipment needed to safely remove any branches or large limbs; it may present risk to do so yourself without training.
The best way to combat the potential for storm damage to your tree is by routine maintenance, which helps ensure your tree is in excellent health before a weather event. Remember, if you tend to your trees regularly, and a tree does fall, insurance may help cover the cost of repairs and tree removal. If you neglect your trees and they fall, you could be held personally liable for the damage.
The Greenville Tree Co. team has years of expertise, encompassing tree care, trimming, pruning, removal, and more. Whether you need us after a storm or to schedule regular maintenance services, we are happy to provide you with the very best in tree care. Call or text today to schedule a free estimate: 864-520-9084.
