An inspection after a storm can be useful when a tree shows significant or uncertain damage, such as broken branches, trunk cracks, or a noticeable change in how it’s leaning. Not every tree needs to be inspected after every storm, but trees with visible or concerning changes are worth a closer look.
Signs Worth a Closer Look
Broken branches and hanging limbs are some of the more obvious signs that a tree may need attention after a storm. A hanging limb that hasn’t fully separated from the tree can be unpredictable, so it’s worth having someone assess the situation rather than assuming it will come down on its own or stay put.
Trunk damage, including new cracks, splits, or bark that’s been stripped away by wind or falling debris, is another reason to consider an inspection. Changes in tree position, such as a tree that’s now leaning when it wasn’t before, or one that seems to have shifted at the base, can point to root or stability issues that aren’t always obvious just by looking at the canopy.
Damaged Canopy and Partial Failures
A damaged canopy, where a significant portion of the branches have broken or been stripped of leaves, can affect a tree’s overall stability and health going forward. Partially failed trees, where part of the trunk or a major limb has split away but the tree is still standing, are a common sight after high winds or heavy, wet snow in Westminster and generally call for prompt evaluation given the unpredictable nature of the remaining structure.
Root-area changes, like soil that looks heaved or disturbed around the base, can also appear after a storm and may suggest the tree’s root system has been affected, even if the tree above ground still looks mostly intact.
Location Matters
Trees near structures or frequently used areas, like a house, driveway, or patio, generally deserve a closer look after a storm compared to a tree in an open part of the yard, simply because the consequences of a failure are greater in those spots. If a tree or branch is touching a power line, stay well clear of it and contact your utility company or the appropriate emergency authority right away rather than approaching it yourself.
Getting the Right Response
If storm damage looks urgent, such as a tree that’s partially fallen or leaning toward a structure, urgent tree service may be the more appropriate first step rather than a routine inspection. For damage that’s noticeable but not posing an immediate threat, a tree inspection can help you understand what happened and what to do next. Reach out to describe the damage you’re seeing on your Westminster property, and we can help you figure out the right next step.
Leave a Reply