How to Identify Hazardous Trees on Your Property

Living in Chattanooga , we all know how unpredictable storm season can be. High winds, heavy rain, and even the occasional tornado can put your trees—and your property—at risk. The good news? With a little proactive care, you can strengthen your trees and reduce the chances of costly storm damage. Here’s what you need to know to keep your trees healthy and resilient when bad weather rolls in. 1. Get a Pro to Check Your Trees Think of a certified arborist as a tree doctor. They can spot weak branches, hidden diseases, and structural issues before they become big problems in a storm. An annual tree inspection is like a health check-up—it helps catch potential hazards early and gives you peace of mind when storms hit. 2. Trim Those Trouble Branches Loose, dead, or weak branches are accidents waiting to happen. Regular tree pruning helps prevent branches from breaking off and causing damage during high winds. But be careful—over-pruning or tree topping can actually make trees weaker. If you're unsure, call in a pro to do the job right. 3. Remove Dead or Dangerous Trees If you have a tree that’s leaning, cracked, or showing signs of rot, it’s a disaster waiting to happen in a storm. Removing it before it falls could save your home, car, or even your life. Not sure if a tree is a risk? A tree expert can assess it and let you know the best course of action. 4. Strengthen Roots and Soil A tree is only as strong as its roots. Help them stay grounded by: Adding mulch to keep moisture in and reduce erosion. Aerating compacted soil so roots can breathe and grow deep. Watering during dry spells to keep roots strong and stable. 5. Support Weak Trees with Cabling and Bracing If you have trees with multiple trunks or weak spots, cabling and bracing can add extra support. This helps prevent splitting and breaking under heavy winds. If you think a tree needs reinforcement, an arborist can set up a system to keep it sturdy. 6. Keep Trees Clear of Your Home and Power Lines Overgrown branches too close to your house or power lines are a major risk in a storm. Strong winds can turn them into dangerous projectiles or cause power outages. If branches are near utility lines, call the power company for safe tree trimming. 7. Clean Up Yard Debris Old branches, weak sprouts, and excess undergrowth can become flying hazards during a storm. Regularly clearing out debris keeps your yard tidy and your trees in better shape to withstand rough weather. 8. Choose Storm-Resistant Trees Thinking of planting new trees? Some species handle storms better than others. Consider these tough trees: Southern Live Oak Bald Cypress American Holly Sweetgum These trees have strong roots and flexible branches that make them more resilient against storm damage. Protect Your Trees Before the Storm Hits Don’t wait until a storm is on the way—start preparing your trees now! A little care today can save you from major headaches and expenses later. With 30 years of experience , we provide expert tree trimming, assessment, and removal services in Chattanooga and the surrounding areas, ensuring safe and efficient work. Call CUT RIGHT TREE SERVICE today at (423) 260-1238 to request a free quote!

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