Why Dead Trees Are Dangerous
1. Risk of Falling: Dead trees are structurally unstable and are at a high risk of falling, especially during storms or high winds. A falling tree can cause severe damage to your home, car, or other structures on your property. Even worse, it can cause injury or death to anyone in its path.
2. Attracting Pests: Dead trees attract pests like termites, carpenter ants, and other wood-boring insects. These pests can quickly move from the dead tree to your home, causing extensive and costly damage.
3. Spreading Disease: If a tree has died from disease, that disease can spread to other trees in your yard. For example, Dutch elm disease, oak wilt, and other tree diseases can quickly move from one tree to another, potentially wiping out multiple trees on your property.
Signs Your Tree is Dead or Dying
It’s not always easy to tell if a tree is dead or dying, but there are some signs to look out for:
1. No Leaves or Brown Leaves: One of the most obvious signs of a dead tree is the absence of leaves during the growing season. If your tree is covered in brown, brittle leaves, it’s likely dead or dying.
2. Peeling Bark: If the bark on your tree is peeling or falling off, this could be a sign that the tree is dead. Healthy trees typically have bark that is intact and difficult to remove.
3. Fungal Growth: Fungal growth, such as mushrooms or conks, on the trunk or base of a tree is often a sign of internal rot. This is a serious issue that can compromise the structural integrity of the tree.
4. Dead or Broken Branches: If your tree has many dead or broken branches, especially in the upper canopy, it could be dying. Healthy trees usually have a mix of live and dead branches, but a high percentage of dead wood is a red flag.
Costs Associated with Tree Removal Services
The cost of removing a dead tree can vary widely depending on the size and location of the tree, as well as the complexity of the removal process. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $500 and $1,500 per tree. For very large trees or those in difficult locations, such as near power lines, costs can exceed $2,000.
When to Call a Professional Arborist
Dead trees are dangerous, and removing them is not a DIY job. It’s essential to call a professional arborist to assess the situation and safely remove the tree. Arborists have the training, experience, and equipment to remove dead trees without causing damage to your property or injury to themselves.
In Kitchener, certified arborists can provide a thorough assessment of your dead tree and recommend the best course of action. They can also advise on whether the tree can be saved or if it needs to be removed immediately.
