Tree Cutting Services for Storm Damage: What You Need to Know

Storms occur frequently in Ireland. The heavy Atlantic storms are often accompanied by strong winds, lightning, and excessive rainfall – all of which can be extremely harmful to your trees. Trees withstand such weather extremes until they reach a tipping point. This is a dangerous scenario as there are high risks of broken branches, damaged wood, exposed roots, or even uprooted trees.

If your trees have suffered a similar fate after a heavy storm, you must act immediately. Storm-damaged trees pose severe risks to people and property, not to mention you may be liable if someone is injured by a tree in your yard. As the property owner, it’s your job to take mitigative action before an accident occurs. Here are five things you need to know about tree cutting after storm damage:

1. Don’t DIY: Remember, Safety Comes First

Weak or fallen trees can be dangerous. Even if the storm has passed, it’s wise not to attempt to clear debris or remove the tree yourself. Any buildings or powerlines nearby pose additional risks, which is why you should not cut trees after a storm, yourself.

However, this does not mean you shouldn’t take a look yourself. Assess the damage from afar and avoid areas that seem risky (more on that later). It’s best to have a professional tree surgeon inspect the damage and reinstate or remove the tree. They have the experience and equipment to remove trees and reverse the danger.

Contact JB Property Maintenance if you need emergency tree-cutting services after a storm.

2. Document the Damage: And Make-safe the Area

We established the need for an initial assessment where you should assess the tree from a distance and avoid dangerous areas. Evaluate if there’s any damage in the area where the tree has fallen. If you notice any damage, take photos and document everything.

Make the area safe if possible without putting yourself at risk. Remove debris that is potentially hazardous and mark the area around the damage to warn other people and keep them away.

3. Speak to Your Insurance Provider

If fallen trees have caused damage and access is safe, speak to your insurance provider. Ask if your insurance policy covers the damage. There are instances where you may be liable for any destruction caused to your neighbour’s property, such as ignoring overhanging or damaged branches. Read your policy document to know whether your insurance provider will pay for tree removal or if you have to take care of it yourself. Generally, if the tree was in good condition until the storm, you won’t be liable for any damages, but the only way to be sure is to work with your insurance provider.

4. Tree Removal Isn’t Always Necessary: Your Trees Can Be Saved Too

Depending on the extent of the damage, your trees can be saved. It may be possible to trim or prune loose branches unless they affect the structural integrity of the tree. Overhanging limbs can be removed, and damaged bark can be repaired. However, this requires specialised knowledge, equipment, and skills (which is why we recommend against the DIY route). In fact, tree specialists can stablise, re-establish, or even replant uprooted trees. Experienced tree surgeons know if the tree can be saved and whether it can regrow.

Having said that, extensively damaged trees cannot be saved. The arborist will determine whether tree removal is necessary based on the following indications:

• Snapped Trees
• Uprooted Trees
• Multiple Broken Branches
• Damaged Power Lines in Proximity
• Exposed Roots

Remember, if the tree is restored after storm damage, it will take time to recover. You may also have to hire professional assistance for tree care and maintenance until it starts growing healthy again.

5. Hire a Certified Tree Surgeon: The Importance of Immediate Action

You must act quickly if there is even the slightest possibility of saving your trees. To maximise their chances of survival, call a tree surgeon immediately. As mentioned above, uprooted trees can be replanted, damaged branches can be pruned, and compromised parts of the tree can be safely removed by professionals. They have the know-how to minimise stress on the tree and revitalise growth. The sooner they start the work, the higher the chances of your tree’s recovery.

If heavy storms have damaged your trees, the wisest decision is to call professionals who can inspect the damage and repair/remove the tree without further delay. Immediate mitigation is critical to save the tree, prevent further damage, and avoid accidents or injuries.

How to Storm-proof Your Trees to Prevent Future Damage

Prevention is better than cure. This adage holds true in this case as well. As a homeowner or property manager, you can take preventive measures to minimise the risk after storm damage. The first step, of course, is understanding the risks.

1. Identifying Vulnerable Trees

Look for signs that indicate a tree is susceptible to significant wind damage. Inspect the following:

• Exposed or Damaged Roots: Exposed or damaged roots are clear signs that the tree is unstable and more likely to be uprooted.
• Cracked or Cavity-laden Trunks: A healthy trunk is a healthy tree. If there are cracks or cavities on the trunk, it is more susceptible to wind damage.
• Dense Canopy: Dense canopies are more likely to be affected by strong wind and have a high chance of breakage.

If you notice such signs, the next step is to mitigate potential damage.

2. Taking Preventing Measures

You cannot prevent storms, but you can curtail their effect on your trees. Here are some proactive steps you can take:

• Prune Susceptible Parts Properly

Proper pruning ensures that weak branches or limbs are removed. This reduces the wind resistance of the trees. You can also trim canopies with dense or uneven growth to let the wind pass easily.

• Enforce Tree Support Systems

You can install braces or cables to support weak or susceptible parts of the tree. Tree support systems provide additional stability during heavy storms and rains. However, you shouldn’t attempt to install these systems yourself unless you have prior experience.

• Maintain Healthy Root & Soil Conditions

Soil and roots act as anchors – the stronger they are, the more stable the tree is. To maintain soil health, ensure proper watering, composting, and mulching. Avoid soil compaction to promote root growth and minimise the chances of erosion.

Implementing these safeguards can protect your trees against the dangers of high winds.

We Are Just a Call Away

JB Property Maintenance provides rapid response services for emergency tree cutting, removal, or storm cleanups to ensure your trees are saved after a windstorm. Our tree surgeons ensure your trees receive the best care, improving their health and longevity, and increasing resilience against high winds.

 

Don’t wait for the next storm. Safeguard your trees today with expert care and maintenance by JB Property Maintenance. Call 870023533 or contact us online to get in touch.