4 Reasons To Remove A Damaged Tree

There are many causes of tree damage, from high winds, lightning, and hail to breakages caused by mechanical damage such as poor pruning. A badly damaged tree is often a candidate for removal due to concerns surrounding the condition of the tree.

1. Hazard Concerns

Unless the damage is very minor, there will likely be safety concerns with the tree. A partially split trunk, for example, can split the rest of the way and cause one or both halves to come crashing to the ground. Other damage that pose possible hazards include cracks in the trunk, excessive deadwood in the crown, and lightning strike damages. It is often better to err on the side of caution and remove the tree rather than risk damage.

2. Mess Mitigation

Sap is a major mess concern after a tree is damaged, especially with varieties that tend to produce a lot of sap, like maples. Leaking sap from a wound can make a mess of sidewalks and driveways, or it may damage the paint on vehicles or your home. Damaged trees may also shed branches and leaves, which can also create a mess, but sap is one of the main concerns. If the damage occurs in spring, the sap issue may be resolved after the first flush of spring growth. If it continues into the following year, though, removal may be the best solution.

3. Aesthetic Purposes

Some types of damage make a tree quite unattractive. Broken trunks can leave behind a misshapen tree that will fork unattractively and produce weak growth, for example. The loss of major structural branches in the crown is another issue that will affect the aesthetic value of the tree. If the tree is in a highly visible area, such as the front yard, then unattractive damage can also impact the curb appeal of your home. Removing the tree so it can be replaced by one with better form and no damage is a good option. 

4. Pest Prevention

Weak trees are more likely to suffer a pest infestation or a disease infection. Bleeding sap, for example, can attract boring insects, as well as create good conditions for fungal infections. Cracks and wounds in the wood also provide an entrance point for pest issues. Pests and diseases that penetrate deeply into the tree are often more difficult to treat, so removal may be the only option.

Contact a tree removal service if you have concerns about a damaged tree in your yard. 

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