High winds and heavy rain can wreak havoc on weak and stressed trees, causing branches to snap or trees to uproot. Are your trees ready for the next storm?
Hurricane season is upon us, which means now it the time to start planning.
It is important to note the property damage occurring during a storm is not solely the result of high winds but much of it is caused by falling trees and flying landscape debris. Past hurricanes have taught us valuable lessons about the devastating effects caused by high force winds on our trees and homes. With that said, there are plenty of things people can do to preserve their trees before a storm strikes.
The key to minimizing your risk against property damage is storm preparedness.
There is no such thing as a hurricane-resistant landscape but with proper care and timely maintenance overseen by a certified arborist, trees can be more resistant to storm damage. Only a certified arborist can ensure that your trees are being properly cared for and have optimal growing conditions.
Pruning is Vital to Hurricane Damage Prevention
A strong, deep-rooted tree may not fall during a storm, but weak limbs in the canopy may. Broken, dead and damaged limbs can be torn from trees during a storm and turned into dangerous projectiles.
Regular pruning done by a professional over the course of the tree's life can create a sturdy, well-spaced framework of healthy branches with an open canopy that allows wind to flow freely through.
Trees to Watch Out For
- Trees with dense canopies
- Dead or dying trees
- Trees with codominant trunks
- New plantings and young trees
One final tip, Make sure the tree company you hire is a licensed and insured company:
"There have been a few cases around town where people, they go on the property, hurt themselves and sue the homeowner." Or in other cases, if an uninsured company damages your home while cutting a tree, your homeowners insurance won't cover the costs. So make sure to protect yourself.