Winter Tree Inspections: Spotting Problems Before Spring Storms

When most homeowners think about tree care, winter isn’t usually the first season that comes to mind. But winter is actually one of the best times to inspect trees for hidden problems—especially before spring storms arrive with heavy rain, high winds, and lightning.

A winter tree inspection can help identify weak, damaged, or dying trees before they become a serious safety risk. Here’s you should look for:

1. Dead or Hanging Branches

   Snow and ice can cause branches or snap or weaken and they are often left hanging in the tree. When a storm rolls through in the spring, this limb is a serious safety risk. Especially if the tree is near a house, driveway or sidewalk.

   
   

2. Cracks in the Trunk or Major Limbs

   Freezing and thawing cycles cause the wood to expand and contract which can lead to visible cracking. Check for vertical cracks, splits where large limbs meet the trunk and deep openings in the bark. These can all signal structural weakness.

   
   

3. Leaning Trees

   If you notice that a tree starts leaning or is leaning more than it use to, that is an indication that there is root damage or soil movement beneath the tree. The winter moisture combined with frozen or saturated ground can cause the tree to become unstable.

   
   

4. Signs of Decay or Rot

   With less ground coverage and leaves, winter is a great time to look for signs of decay and rot. Look for: mushrooms or fungal growth, hallow or soft spots, and peeling or missing bark.

Winter is the perfect time to inspect your trees to make sure you will not be paying the price come spring. If you see any of the above in a tree on your property, give us a call!