Timing Is Important - Dead Tree Removal
For most trees, the longer they stand dead, the more dangerous they become, therefore timing for dead tree removal is critical. As the wood decays, the structural integrity of the tree also declines. Rotten wood is much more unpredictable and dangerous. There is a greater chance for the tree to fail with just the slightest increase in load bearing. Also, rotten trees don’t always fall the way we intend for them to fall. Sections that are cut may break in the air, causing unpredictable damage. The old term “widow maker” was coined for a reason. Some trees are just not safe to climb anymore. When this happens, we either have to access them from a bucket truck or they must be dropped to protect the safety of our crew. This isn’t a problem in open areas, but most trees in residential or congested areas cannot be safely dropped.
What Tree Decay Looks Like
Beech Dead Bark
Cracks-Dead Trunk
Woodpecker Holes
Dangerous Trees to Remove
Of course, the bigger the tree the more dangerous. Dead trunks are not as dangerous as dead trees with the top branches still in tact. These trees are extremely difficult to remove and require an expert in order to be removed safely and prevent any damage. The tree on the left is the silhouette of a dead tree with quite a bit of the top left. The branches on the tree on the right are obviously gone, however the tree has two nasty dead leads. Removal of either pictured dead tree would be quite dangerous without using a bucket truck. Most likely, they are too dangerous to climb.
No Top - No Roots?
This dead tree was a stalk with no limbs left. As you can see, there are also almost no roots left. I photographed this tree shortly after it fell. When you look in your yard, and you see a dead tree, remember that it's not only what you can see that is decaying. What's underground is decaying too adding to the instability and danger.
References:
Years of Experience