Blog | Professional Tree Services

Trees provide plenty of benefits, including fresh air, shade during summer, protection from storms, and the occasional fruits. Unfortunately, sometimes we take our trees for granted. As a result, we may not always know what to do when faced with a tree emergency. 

You’ll want to remain calm when facing a leaning tree or one that has already fallen. This guide will explore what to do with a hazard tree, common causes, and how excellent tree services by G&V Tree Company in Alexandria, VA, can help. 

What Exactly Is a Tree Emergency? 

The definition of a tree emergency can vary for different property owners. Anything that makes public or private property and those present unsafe may constitute a tree emergency. 

An emergency can range from too many broken branches to a tree leaning too close to powerlines or roofs, a dead tree attracting pests, or a tree already falling over. Whatever the specific issue, it’s critical to implement emergency tree services. 

Common Causes of Tree Emergencies 

We’ll explore some of the more common causes of tree emergencies: 

Weather-related Incidents 

Heavy rain and snowstorms can quickly damage a tree, causing it to lean. A lightning strike from a thunderstorm can even split a tree. A split or leaning tree can harm nearby structures, people, or pets. Depending on the damage, you may need to trim the tree or remove it entirely. 

Even if the tree remains in good condition, you might find your yard filled with branches after a storm. You should remove these branches, as they can attract pests. 

Diseased and Infected Trees

Over 100 different diseases can impact a typical tree species. Symptoms and triggers can range, but all tree diseases and pest infestations deserve attention because they can spread to other trees. 

Sometimes it’s impossible to prevent the conditions leading to disease or infection permanently. However, regularly maintaining your tree’s health by routinely watering it and cutting off any dead branches can help prevent illness or infection. 

Fires

Unfortunately, wildfires are becoming more common in certain areas, and these fires can quickly tarnish trees’ health. You typically can’t save a burnt tree with 60% or more of its canopy damaged.

You’ll want to remove the burnt tree to prevent harm to your property or any persons below. To do this safely, contact a professional tree care company.

Uplifted Roots or Sidewalk Damage

If you see uplifted roots on one side of your tree, this is a sign that the tree is starting to fall. Another sign of uprooted trees can be sidewalk damage. The sooner you fix the damage and ensure the safety of pedestrians, the better.

Tips for Dealing With a Tree Emergency 

When faced with a tree emergency, your first inclination is to try to solve the problem yourself. 

For some emergencies, you can implement a few measures to prevent further damage to the tree and your private or public property. However, knowing when to call a professional team is just as important. 

Your first step should always be visually inspecting the tree emergency area. Check from a safe distance and note any dead or broken branches, hollow trunks, fungi, and decay. 

You might be able to handle issues like dead branches or minor pest infestations on your own. However, problems like a leaning tree require a call to a professional tree care service team. 

Give G&V a Call Today 

For over 20 years, our G&V team has provided expert tree emergency care services to many businesses and homeowners. From trimming your trees to removing a hazardous tree, our team can help. 

Learn why it’s important to raise the tree canopy by calling G&V at 703-337-3080!