Overview

In this blog, the tree experts from Art's Tree Service will walk you through the warning signs of a tree that might be ready to fall. With a few simple checks and a bit of know-how, you can avoid serious damage to your property and even protect lives. We’ll also talk about when it’s time to call a professional tree service for help.

Introduction

You probably don’t give your trees much thought most days. They offer shade, maybe a bit of privacy, and they just sit there quietly. But what happens when one starts leaning a little more than it used to? Or when it drops a heavy branch out of nowhere?

Trees don’t always give clear warnings before they fall, but there are signs you can look for. Spotting a dangerous tree early can save you from costly repairs and avoid serious accidents.

Leaning Trees and Why You Should Pay Attention

A tree that leans isn’t always a problem. Some trees naturally grow at an angle, especially when reaching for the sun. If a tree that once stood straight is now leaning to one side, though, that’s a red flag.

Sudden leaning is often caused by:

Weak or damaged roots
Soil erosion after heavy rain
Strong winds or storms

The trouble with a leaning tree is that its roots may not hold it up properly anymore. If you notice a tree leaning more than 15 degrees on your property, especially if it’s a new change, it’s time to get it looked at.

Bark Damage Can Mean Big Trouble

Think of the bark as the tree’s outer layer of defense. It helps regulate water for the tree and keeps disease out when it's in good shape. But when that outer shell starts to fall apart, it usually points to a deeper issue.

Some common signs include:

Long cracks running up or down the trunk
The bark peeling off in large, flaky patches
Areas where the bark is completely missing, often near the bottom

These symptoms might seem small at first, but they can be signals of internal decay or structural weakness. If the wood underneath is exposed, it leaves the tree vulnerable to pests, fungus, and rot. Over time, that damage can spread. While one crack doesn’t always mean the tree is coming down tomorrow, it’s worth getting checked.

What To Do About Dead Tree Limbs

It’s easy to miss dead branches, especially if the tree is tall or full of leaves in other spots. However, these lifeless limbs can be more than just an eyesore; they’re accidents waiting to happen.

Here’s what to look for:

Branches that don’t grow leaves during the season
Wood that breaks off with barely any pressure
Spots where fungus or moss is growing around the limb

Even if the trunk seems healthy, dead limbs can weaken the tree’s overall structure. Over time, they shift the balance of weight, which can make the entire tree unstable. One strong wind gust might be all it takes to send a heavy branch crashing down. Instead of waiting for that to happen, having those branches removed is a good idea.

Tree Root Problems That Can Go Unseen

Most of the time, we focus on what we can see above ground. However, some of the most dangerous issues start at the tree's base or even below the soil. One big warning sign to watch for is the presence of mushrooms or fungus growing around the trunk.

These growths often pop up when:

The roots are starting to rot from too much moisture.
The tree has been damaged below ground.
There’s internal decay spreading from the bottom up.

Mushrooms might look harmless, but they’re often nature’s way of telling you that wood is breaking down. And if the wood inside your tree is rotting, its stability is at risk. Sometimes, a tree might still look healthy up top while slowly dying from the roots.

Soft or spongy areas at the base, constantly wet soil, or a sour smell near the trunk are also strong warning signs. If you notice any of these, it’s best not to wait. Tree removal or root-focused treatment may be necessary.

Storm Damage and Hidden Tree Issues

After a storm rolls through, you probably check for obvious damage like missing shingles, broken windows, and maybe some branches scattered across the yard. But trees can suffer damage that’s not always easy to spot right away. That hidden damage can turn dangerous fast.

Here’s what you should check for after bad weather:

Branches that are cracked but still hanging on
Limbs split in half with jagged edges
Trunks that have fresh gashes or signs of impact

Even if your tree seems like it made it through fine, wind stress can weaken its structure. The tree may have shifted just enough to loosen the roots underground or bend the trunk. That kind of damage might not cause a problem today but could bring the whole thing down in the next storm.

When Your Tree Starts To Shift

Every tree has a natural shape. Some grow tall and straight, others wide and full, and some have a bit of a lean from the start. If your tree starts to look noticeably different over time, it could be reacting to stress or showing signs it’s getting ready to fall.

Keep an eye out for things like:

Branches growing in unusual directions
The crown (top of the tree) leaning to one side
A twisted or bent trunk that wasn’t like that before

These shape changes aren’t always obvious unless you look at the tree regularly. Sometimes, a slow shift can go unnoticed for months. Once a tree starts changing its posture, it might mean the weight is no longer evenly distributed, or the roots can’t support it anymore.

This is especially important if the tree is close to your home, driveway, or power lines. Even a slight tilt can change the way wind or snow affects the tree. This small change in shape could be the last warning sign before a fall.

Knowing When To Call in a Tree Care Professional

Sometimes, it’s easy to tell when a tree’s in trouble. Other times, it takes a trained eye. Here’s how to know when it’s time to reach out for help and what kind of help to look for.

Tree Risk Assessment Can Save You Time and Stress

If you’re standing in your yard wondering whether that tree is stable or about to fall over, it’s probably time to get a professional opinion. Certified arborists offer tree risk assessments, which means they’ll take a close look at your tree’s structure, roots, and overall health.

They’ll spot problems that might not be visible to you, and let you know if the tree is safe, needs pruning, or should be removed. It’s a smart first step when something just doesn’t look right.

Tree Trimming Services for Hard-To-Reach Limbs

If branches are hanging over your roof, close to power lines, or just way too high to deal with on your own, call in a tree trimming service. Climbing up a ladder with a saw can be dangerous, especially if the tree is unstable or the limbs are heavy.

Tree experts have the right safety gear, equipment, and experience to remove branches without damaging your home or the tree itself. Plus, trimming in the right spots can actually strengthen the tree.

Tree Health Inspection for Hidden Issues

Sometimes, the real danger is inside the tree or in the roots. Mushrooms at the base, bark peeling off, or odd growth patterns could mean there’s decay deep within the trunk. A tree health inspection can confirm what’s really going on. The sooner you find out, the more options you have to fix or safely remove it before it becomes a hazard.

Emergency Tree Services After a Storm

If a storm has just rolled through and your tree looks worse for wear, it’s best not to wait. Emergency tree services can come out quickly to deal with broken branches, leaning trunks, or trees that are already starting to fall. This is one of those times when fast action makes all the difference.

Stay Ahead of Tree Trouble With a Local Tree Service You Can Trust

Trees don’t usually just fall over without warning. They send signals, and it’s up to us to catch them in time. Whether it’s a slow lean, cracks in the bark, a dead limb, or mushrooms popping up at the base, these clues are your chance to step in before real damage happens.

The good news is you don’t have to figure it out alone. Keeping an eye on your trees is the first step. Calling in a trusted tree care service when something feels off is the next one. That quick call could save you thousands in repairs, protect your home, and, most importantly, keep people safe.

If you’ve noticed anything unusual with your trees, our experienced team at Art's Tree Service is here to help. We offer tree inspections, trimming, emergency support, and full removals if needed. Give us a call at (941) 877-1317 to schedule your tree inspection today.