Find out more about Storm Damage and When to Call a Tree Surgeon – Learn how to spot tree damage after a storm, when it becomes dangerous, and why calling a professional can protect your garden and property.
Storms can be destructive, and unfortunately, trees often bear the brunt of that damage. From snapped branches to uprooted trunks, the impact on your garden and property can be severe. Knowing when to take action and call in professional help is key to keeping your home, garden, and loved ones safe.
How Storms Can Damage Trees
Storms affect trees in several ways, depending on their strength and condition. Heavy winds can break large branches or strip leaves and bark from the tree. In some cases, strong gusts may uproot a tree entirely, especially if the ground is saturated after prolonged rain.
Waterlogged soil can cause the roots to lose their grip, particularly in areas where drainage is poor. Trees that are already weakened by age, disease, or structural problems are most at risk. If a tree stands close to buildings, fences, or parked cars, the risk of damage increases significantly.
Common Signs of Storm Damage
After a storm has passed, inspect your trees carefully for signs of damage. Some issues are easy to spot, while others might not be obvious straight away. Here are some common warning signs to look out for:
- Hanging or broken branches
- A leaning trunk that wasn’t tilted before
- Cracks in the tree’s bark or limbs
- Exposed or damaged roots
- Bark stripped away in patches
- Leaves turning brown or falling off out of season
Spotting these signs early gives you the chance to act before the problem gets worse. Leaving a damaged tree untreated could lead to further damage or pose a risk to nearby structures.
When Storm-Damaged Trees Become Dangerous
Not all storm damage is an emergency, but it can become dangerous over time. For example, a broken branch might stay lodged in the tree for a while before eventually falling. Likewise, cracks in the trunk may seem minor at first but can lead to internal weakening, especially in wet or windy conditions.
If a tree is close to your property, power lines, footpaths, or a neighbour’s fence, even a small issue can pose a major hazard. Trees with damaged roots may also fall without warning. We recommend having storm-damaged trees assessed as soon as possible to ensure safety and avoid costly damage later on.
How a Tree Surgeon Can Help
A professional tree surgeon provides vital services when trees have been affected by a storm. They can assess the overall health of your tree, identify hidden damage, and recommend the right action.
Whether it’s pruning damaged branches, treating disease, or removing a dangerous tree entirely, they have the tools and experience to do the job safely.
Tree surgeons can also spot early signs of decay or instability that may not be obvious to the untrained eye. They offer advice on long-term care to ensure your trees stay strong, healthy, and less likely to suffer storm damage in the future. In some cases, strategic pruning or root care may be enough to prevent future problems.
When to Contact a Tree Surgeon
After a storm, it’s best to contact a tree surgeon if a tree looks unstable, has shifted position, or shows signs of damage. This includes leaning trunks, cracked branches, exposed roots, or any sudden change in appearance.
Even if the tree seems mostly intact, damage can worsen over time, especially if it’s close to your property or garden structures. A tree surgeon can inspect the tree and recommend the right action to ensure safety and prevent further problems.
If you're looking for a reliable tree surgeon in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, or Dudley, A&T Tree Services Ltd is here to help. From expert pruning and tree health checks to safe removals and emergency call-outs, our experienced team is ready to take care of all your tree care needs.
