When Your Tree Might Be at Risk of Failing

Great Western Tree Care – An Arborist’s Guide for Homeowners

Trees are strong, resilient living structures. They withstand storms, wind, snow loads, and decades of growth. But like any living organism, trees can experience structural problems that increase the risk of failure—especially as they age, face harsh weather, or develop hidden defects. As certified arborists, our job is to identify these risks early and help homeowners keep their trees safe and healthy.

You don’t have to be an expert to recognize potential warning signs. With a little knowledge, you can spot issues before they become serious problems.

What Does “Tree Failure” Mean?

Tree failure doesn’t always mean the entire tree falls over. It may involve:

• A large branch breaking
• Part of the trunk splitting
• The tree uprooting
• Sections of the canopy collapsing
• Leaning or shifting structure
• Sudden cracking or tearing

Any of these events can cause property damage or create safety hazards, especially near homes, driveways, and play areas.

The Difference Between Risk and Hazard

A risky tree is one with structural or biological problems that could lead to failure.

A tree hazard is when a risky tree is near a target:

• A house
• A road or sidewalk
• A fence or garage
• A person or pet area

A failing tree in the middle of a field is just a tree failing. The same issue next to a home is a hazard.

Warning Signs a Tree May Be at Risk

Trees rarely fail without showing some kind of symptom first. Here are the most common signs we look for during a professional assessment.

1. Significant Lean

A tree that leans naturally is not necessarily dangerous. But a sudden lean or a lean that appears recently is a red flag.

Signs of concern:

• Fresh soil disruption near the base
• Cracked or lifted root plate
• Visible roots on the leaning side
• Lean develops after a storm

This can indicate root failure or shifting soil stability.

2. Cracks or Splits in the Trunk

Cracks weaken the tree’s structural core.

Look for:

• Deep vertical splits
• Cracks running through the trunk or major limbs
• Areas where bark is separating
• Moisture or decay along cracks

These can indicate internal decay or excessive stress loads.

3. Dead or Dying Branches

Dead limbs are more brittle and can break without warning.

Signs include:

• Branches without leaves during the growing season
• Peeling bark on limbs
• No buds present
• Hollow sound when tapped

If dead branches are large, they can pose a serious hazard.

4. Decay or Cavities

Decay weakens internal wood structure, even if the exterior looks normal.

Watch for:

• Hollow areas in the trunk
• Mushrooms or fungal growth at the base
• Soft, crumbly wood
• Missing bark or deep cavities

Fungi often point to internal decay you cannot see.

5. Root Damage

Healthy roots anchor the tree. If the root system fails, the entire tree can fail.

Common causes:

• Construction near the tree
• Trenching for utilities
• Soil compaction from vehicles or foot traffic
• Girdling roots wrapping around the trunk
• Limited root space (e.g., narrow strips near sidewalks)

If roots are cut or exposed, risk increases significantly.

6. Previous Storm Damage

Trees that have survived storms may carry hidden weaknesses.

Signs include:

• Broken stubs from torn limbs
• Bends or twists in branches
• Unusual cracks or splitting patterns
• Uneven canopy weight

Storm damage often leads to slow structural decline.

7. Poor Tree Structure

Some trees grow with natural structural flaws that increase risk.

Examples:

• Tight V-shaped branch unions
• Co-dominant stems (two main trunks of equal size)
• Heavy limbs extending horizontally over targets
• Asymmetrical canopies from competing trees

These structures can split under wind or snow load.

Environmental Factors That Increase Risk

A tree’s health isn’t just about what’s happening on the trunk—it’s also about conditions around it.

Soil and Site Conditions

• Saturated or waterlogged soil
• Very dry soil causing root dieback
• Shallow or rocky soils
• Soil erosion on slopes

Weather and Climate

• Extreme wind events
• Heavy wet snow
• Droughts followed by storms
• Freeze-thaw cycles creating cracks

Human Activity

• Improper pruning
• Topping (cuts that remove the entire top of the tree)
• Lawn mower or string trimmer wounds to the trunk
• Herbicide or chemical damage

These stressors can weaken trees gradually.

What Homeowners Can Do

You don’t need to diagnose your tree alone. But you can take proactive steps to reduce risk.

1. Inspect Your Tree Regularly

Walk around your tree a few times per year—especially after:

• Strong windstorms
• Heavy wet snow
• Hail events
• Construction or landscaping projects nearby

Look for the warning signs listed above.

2. Avoid Topping or Improper Pruning

Topping creates weak, dangerous regrowth and structural failure. Always prune with a purpose, using proper cuts.

3. Protect the Root Zone

The most important part of a tree is the part you can’t see.

• Avoid driving or parking near trees
• Use mulch around the base instead of turf up to the trunk
• Don’t trench or excavate inside the dripline without planning

Roots support the entire structure.

4. Water Correctly

Deep, infrequent watering helps roots grow deep and strong. Frequent shallow watering causes surface roots and instability.

5. Call a Certified Arborist for a Risk Assessment

A professional uses standardized methods (like ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification, TRAQ) to evaluate:

• Structural integrity
• Species characteristics
• Decay extent and patterns
• Load and wind exposure
• Target zones

The arborist then provides recommendations—whether it’s pruning, cabling, soil improvement, or removal.

When Removal Is the Right Decision

Sometimes, a tree is beyond recovery, or the risk is unacceptably high. The goal is to remove the risk, not the tree—unless removal is necessary.

Removal may be the best option when:

• The tree has advanced decay
• Major structural cracks threaten homes
• Root systems are severely compromised
• The tree leans dangerously over a target
• Disease has killed a significant portion of the canopy

A skilled arborist will explain the reasoning clearly and offer replacement options.

The Importance of Early Action

Most tree failures are preventable. The biggest mistake homeowners make is waiting until a tree shows obvious decline. By then, risk is higher and treatment options are limited.

Early action can:

• Save the tree
• Save money on repairs
• Prevent property damage
• Keep your family safe
• Extend the tree’s life for decades

Final Thoughts

Trees are valuable assets—shade, beauty, property value, wildlife habitat, energy savings. But like all living organisms, they require care and attention. Recognizing early signs of risk and working with a certified arborist can keep your trees healthy, safe, and beautiful for generations. If you’re unsure about your tree, it’s never too early to schedule an inspection. A trained professional can provide peace of mind and expert guidance based on science—not guesswork.