My Tree is Leaning - What Do I Do?
Keep a leaning tree from crashing into your property and causing significant damage. Knowing what to do when your trees show signs of imminent failure will help safeguard your home and property from costly removal and repairs.
dangerous leaning tree
New Image Tree Solutions gathered information on why trees lean, the hazards they pose, what to do about them, how to prevent them, and when to call an arborist.
For Tree Emergencies, Call New Image Tree Solutions at: 404-680-0041
Why Do Trees Lean?
dangerous diseased and damaged leaning tree
Trees may lean for a variety of reasons. Some factors include:
Soil Instability: Shifts in soil composition or erosion can undermine a tree’s root system. Heavy rains or changes in water drainage patterns may weaken soil stability, causing trees to tilt.
Root Damage: Mechanical damage from construction, nearby landscaping, or heavy foot traffic can harm a tree’s roots. Compromised roots lose their ability to anchor a tree firmly, leading to a lean.
Wind Exposure: Prolonged exposure to strong winds or storms can cause trees to lean over time. Even healthy trees can develop a tilt if subjected to continuous lateral pressure.
Improper Planting: Trees planted (leaning or in unsuitable soil conditions) may never develop a strong, vertical root structure. A poor planting site can leave a tree vulnerable to shifting and tilting.
Disease and Decay: Fungal infections, pests, and rot can weaken the trunk and root system. A decaying tree might lose the structural integrity required to maintain an upright position.
Hazards Posed by a Leaning Tree
dangerous leaning tree hazards
When a tree begins to lean, it is a warning sign that it may not be structurally sound. The risks include:
Damage to Structures: Leaning trees can pressure nearby buildings, potentially damaging roofs, siding, and foundations. In extreme cases, a falling tree can cause catastrophic structural damage.
Vehicle Hazards: A tree leaning over driveways or parking areas can block access or fall onto vehicles during high winds or storms.
Threats to Personal Safety: People are at risk if a tree falls unexpectedly. The debris can cause injury or fatality, particularly in densely populated areas.
Given these risks, it is essential to take immediate action when you notice a tree leaning noticeably.
What to Do When Your Tree is Leaning
Immediate Steps
Assess the Situation: Safely observe the tree from a distance. Look for signs of severe leaning, cracked or splitting trunks, and dead branches. Determine whether the tree appears unstable.
Clear the Area: Ensure that vehicles, people, and outdoor furniture are away from the tree. Mark off a safe perimeter to prevent accidents.
Document the Condition: Take photographs and notes on the tree’s lean, visible damage, and surrounding conditions. This documentation may be used when consulting professionals or insurance providers.
Who to Call in Roswell, Georgia
dangerous leaning tree arborist
If a tree appears dangerously unstable, contacting a professional arborist immediately is critical. In Roswell, residents should call a certified arborist to evaluate the tree’s condition and recommend corrective measures. Additionally, if there is a safety risk, contact local emergency services for prompt assistance. Roswell professionals and organizations include:
Certified Arborists: Look for certifications through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or other accredited and reputable organizations.
Read more about emergency tree services and removal HERE.
Local Tree Removal Services: Professional tree removal services can ensure the safe disposal of trees requiring removal or heavy pruning.
City Services or Code Enforcement: When a tree poses a public safety hazard, notify local authorities to initiate appropriate action.
Preventive Measures to Stop Trees from Leaning
dangerous leaning tree maintenance and pruning
Preventing trees from leaning starts with proper maintenance and early intervention. Here are some strategies:
Regular Inspections - Schedule routine inspections by certified arborists to monitor tree health. Early root damage, soil erosion, or disease detection can allow timely interventions that prevent further tilting.
Soil Management - Maintain healthy soil around trees by ensuring proper drainage and preventing compaction. Mulching and aerating the soil can help stabilize roots and promote hardy growth.
Corrective Pruning - Proper pruning helps maintain balance and reduces stress on branches. Prune dead or damaged limbs promptly to reduce weight on one side of the tree, which might otherwise contribute to leaning.
Support Systems - For young or recovering trees, installing support systems such as cables or braces can provide extra stability until the tree develops a robust root structure.
Planting Practices - When planting new trees, choose species suited to the local soil and climate. Plant at the proper depth and orientation, and avoid placing trees in areas prone to soil erosion or heavy foot traffic.
When to Call an Arborist
Call a certified arborist immediately if you notice any of the following signs:
Significant Leaning: A noticeable tilt that worsens over time is a red flag.
Cracked or Splitting Trunks: Visible cracks may indicate internal decay.
Dead or Dying Branches: Extensive branch dieback suggests the tree is under severe stress.
Soil Erosion Around Roots: Loss of soil stability can undermine the tree’s support.
Signs of Disease or Infestation: Fungal growth, unusual discoloration, or pest activity require professional diagnosis.
Arborists can evaluate the tree’s condition and determine whether remedial measures like cabling or bracing will correct it (or if removal is necessary to prevent danger).
Managing a Leaning Tree
dangerous leaning tree maintenance
Once an arborist has assessed the situation, several outcomes are possible:
Stabilization Measures: If the tree can be saved, support systems such as cables, braces, or deep root injections may be applied.
Disease or Pests Treatment: If decay, disease, or pests contribute to the lean, appropriate treatments will be administered.
Tree Removal: Safe removal is the best option if the tree is beyond repair or poses a risk. Professionals will use specialized equipment to prevent damage to nearby structures during removal.
What Do I Do With a Leaning Tree?
In this article, you discovered crucial information about why trees lean, the hazards they can pose, what to do about them, how to prevent them, and when to call an arborist.
A leaning tree poses a significant risk to property and people. Understanding why trees lean, taking proactive measures to maintain stability, and knowing when to call a professional are critical steps for homeowners in Roswell, Georgia.
Failure to quickly address a leaning tree may result in significant property damage and costly personal injury (or worse).
Sources:
site.extension.uga.edu/forsyth/2023/09/hazardous-trees-2
extension.psu.edu/what-to-do-about-leaning-trees
(404) 680-0041