by Brandywine Tree & Shrub
•
21 January 2025
A tree hazard assessment is an important process that ensures your trees are safe, healthy, and not a risk to people or property. Whether you’re worried about an aging oak or need to inspect a towering pine near your home, understanding what happens during this assessment can help you feel confident in your tree care decisions. When you need a tree hazard assessment in Wilmington, DE, or the surrounding areas, contact Brandywine Tree & Shrub. Visual Inspection The first step in a tree hazard assessment is a thorough visual inspection. A certified arborist examines the tree for visible signs of damage or disease, such as cracks in the trunk, dead branches, or fungi growth at the base. They’ll also check for leaning trunks or signs of instability that could indicate a tree is at risk of falling. Health Evaluation Beyond the surface, arborists evaluate the overall health of the tree. They’ll look for issues like pest infestations, rot, or poor foliage growth. The health of the roots is also crucial since weak or compromised roots are a common cause of tree failure. Environmental Factors A tree doesn’t exist in isolation. During the assessment, the arborist considers the surrounding environment, such as soil quality, proximity to buildings, and exposure to wind or heavy rains. These factors can influence a tree's stability and the likelihood of it posing a hazard. Risk Analysis After gathering all the necessary information, the arborist determines the level of risk the tree presents. This analysis considers the tree’s condition, its size, and its location. A tree close to a home or walkway might pose a higher risk than one in an open field. Recommendations and Next Steps Finally, the arborist provides recommendations based on their findings. These might include pruning to remove dead branches, cabling for additional support, or removing the tree if the risk is too significant. Hazard Assessments in Wilmington Understanding the potential risks posed by your trees is an important aspect of property maintenance. Our tree hazard assessments identify and address issues such as weak limbs, structural defects, and disease. By conducting thorough evaluations, our certified arborists can recommend the best course of action to mitigate hazards and enhance the safety of your landscape. Our recommendations may include deadwooding, tree removal or the issue may not be as bad as it seems and we can perform other minor services to stabilize the tree. Contact Brandywine Tree & Shrub at 302-278-6387 to schedule an appointment in Wilmington, DE, or the surrounding areas.