5 Signs Your Tree Might Be a Hazard (And What to Do About It!)
When Beauty Becomes a Risk -
Trees provide shade, charm, and value to your home—but they can also become serious hazards if they’re not properly maintained or assessed. From hidden root damage to visible cracks in the trunk, certain warning signs can signal that a tree is unstable or potentially dangerous.
At LS Trees, we believe in helping homeowners stay safe and proactive. Below are the five key signs your tree might be hazardous—plus what you should do about it.
1. Leaning Tree — A Sudden Shift is a Red Flag
A tree that naturally leans may not be a concern—but if your tree suddenly starts to tilt or shift, it could be a sign of root instability or structural weakness.
Common causes include:
Recent storms or high winds
Root rot or decay
Soil erosion or drainage changes
📌 Why It’s Dangerous: A leaning tree is at high risk of falling, especially during strong winds. It can damage roofs, fences, vehicles—or worse, injure someone.
🛠️ What to Do: Contact a certified tree professional immediately to assess root integrity. A leaning tree can sometimes be saved, but often requires removal for safety.
2. Cracks or Splits in the Trunk — Internal Failure
Cracks or splits in a tree’s trunk weaken its core and reduce its ability to support weight or resist wind. You might notice:
Long vertical splits
Deep grooves forming in the bark
Bark peeling away around cracks
📌 Why It’s Dangerous: This type of internal damage can cause the tree to split apart during a storm or heavy wind, especially if the crack is near a major branch junction.
🛠️ What to Do: This is a structural issue that calls for professional inspection. Bracing or cabling might be possible in some cases, but many trees with severe cracks will need to be removed to prevent sudden collapse.
3. Dead or Hanging Branches — Accidents Waiting to Happen
These are often the most visible signs of trouble. If you see dry, brittle limbs with no leaves—or branches hanging precariously—it’s a warning sign that your tree isn’t thriving.
📌 Why It’s Dangerous: Dead limbs can fall without warning, especially during wind or rain. They’re a serious hazard to people, pets, and property.
🛠️ What to Do: Schedule professional tree trimming or pruning. Removing dead limbs keeps your tree healthy and your surroundings safe. If large portions of the tree are dead, a full assessment may be needed.
4. Fungal Growth — Rot from the Inside Out
Mushrooms or other fungal growth at the base of the trunk or along the roots are signs of internal decay. Common species include honey fungus and bracket fungi.
📌 Why It’s Dangerous: Fungi feed on rotting wood, which means they often appear when the tree is internally compromised—something you might not see until it’s too late.
🛠️ What to Do: Don’t ignore fungal growth. Call LS Trees to conduct a full health assessment. If the decay is advanced, the tree may need to be removed to avoid collapse.
5. Root Damage — A Silent But Serious Threat
Unlike branches or trunks, root damage is harder to spot. However, signs may include:
Sudden leaning
Wilting leaves despite watering
Visible root damage due to nearby construction
Soil cracking or upheaval near the tree base
📌 Why It’s Dangerous: A tree’s roots are its anchor. When they’re compromised, the tree can become unstable and prone to falling—even if it looks healthy above ground.
🛠️ What to Do: If you suspect root damage, don’t wait. Tree failures due to root problems often occur without warning and can be catastrophic.
🔁 When to Call a Professional
Many homeowners put off tree assessments until it’s too late. The truth is, most dangerous trees give early warning signs—you just have to know what to look for.
At LS Trees, we offer:
✅ Free consultations
✅ Emergency response
✅ Tree risk assessments
✅ Safe and insured removals
✅ Honest recommendations (we never upsell!)
💡 Pro Tip: Get Ahead of the Problem
Want to prevent future tree hazards? Here are a few proactive things you can do:
Schedule seasonal tree inspections (especially before storm season)
Keep your trees trimmed and healthy
Avoid soil compaction around roots (no parking under large trees)
Watch for sudden changes in shape, color, or stability
📞 Don’t wait until it’s too late. If you notice any of these signs, Branch Out and Book an Inspection Today! Call LS Trees at (770) 616-6079 and mention this blog for $100 OFF your service!
