As much as we all love the shade trees on our properties, the thought of them posing a risk, large or small, is a risk most homeowners don’t want to take. The problem is that even trees that look perfectly healthy can have issues most homeowners won’t be able to detect on their own. This is where a tree risk assessment (TRA) comes into play. Crecraft for Treecraft Tree Service is here to talk about tree risk assessments and why they are so important to the health and safety of your trees as well as your home and property.
What is the Tree Risk Assessment Method?
During a tree risk assessment, a licensed arborist will be taking a close look at the tree itself as well as the surrounding area. After the inspection is complete, you will get a detailed report of any findings. They will include in that report any recommendations that could include removal or ongoing care. The only time tree removal recommended is when the tree is too far gone to save. Any skilled arborist will want to do whatever they can to save a tree rather than remove it. However, if there is any chance that it could injure someone or damage a structure, removal is always the best option. When the inspection is underway, the arborist will be looking for any signs that the tree itself is in trouble, but also will take a close look at the soil, root system, recent damage, and other risk factors.
When is a Tree Risk Assessment Necessary?
There is a lot of liability surrounding a tree that is unsafe. The problem for many homeowners is the fact that they didn’t realize the tree was unsafe in the first place. It doesn’t matter how old or young your tree is, how small or large it is, you should be having a tree risk assessment done every 3 years to ensure your trees aren’t posing any risk. There are some signs that may cause you to have a tree risk assessment done sooner though. Here is what you should look for:
– Leaning trees (especially when leaning toward a building)
– Obvious signs of decay
– Crowding buildings, pools, power lines and other structures
– Upheaval of driveways or sidewalks due to root damage
– Changes to the soil that could have an impact on the overall health of the tree
– Loss of windbreak
– Signs of storm damage
– Signs of pest infestation or fungus
– Lightning strikes (once you have called emergency personnel)
Emergency Tree Removal in West Norriton Township, Tredyffrin Township, East Norriton, Radnor, Wayne, Saint Davids, Lower Merion Township, Norristown, Upper Merion Township, Phoenixville & Greater King of Prussia, Pennsylvania
If you have a tree that is showing signs of damage or disease, you can turn to the arborists at Crecraft for Treecraft Tree Service to come and give your tree a tree risk assessment. If it is time to remove the tree, we will be able to take care of it for you. If there is care that could save the tree, we will be able to handle that as well. Call us today!
