We have seen it on movies, read it in the newspapers, and even experienced it ourselves. We are talking about storms destroying properties and lives. Most often than not, storm damage is caused by trees, and the effect is just too significant to be neglected. For that reason, there is no wonder why a lot of home and business owners go to us and ask us to eliminate their trees. The fear of getting injured or having their houses and business get damaged by a toppled tree and fallen limbs make these people think that tree removal should be done in their property. However, it should not always be the case.
We will explain the difference between a crown restoration and tree removal, to help you make a sound decision which one should be done to your tree. Keep in mind that there are situations where eliminating your tree is inevitable but preventing it from getting to that point is much better.
Crown Restoration
Following a storm, the majority of trees can be pruned to bring back its structural soundness and lessen the possibility of it falling in the future. Crown restoration is a method to bring back the balance in the structure of the tree and promote new growth. It is an ideal option to preserve trees following a storm.
If you are confused whether or not your tree can still be saved from storm damage, seek assistance from a certified arborist. A tree expert can give you an accurate assessment of your tree’s situation and let you know if crown restoration can be done.
Goals for Crown Restoration
- Eliminate or reduce damaged branches
- Get rid of hangers and other hazardous situations
- Reduce exposed branches
- Restore the balance of the crown
The main priority for crown restoration is to get the balance back to critical areas of the tree’s crown so they will be less vulnerable to falling. Also, when we diminish exposed branches, it will lessen the impact of a wind storm and ice in the future. Pruning would also help in preventing sucker growth that can result in weakness and future damage.
Tree Removal
Tree preservation should be the top priority for a tree company at all times. When you remove a 100-year old tree in your yard, even if you plant 100 trees, you can’t replace it. But, there is an exemption in the case of a heavily wounded tree. When a tree’s structure is compromised, and crown restoration can no longer bring back its structural integrity, then tree removal should be done. We have to take the following factors before getting rid of any tree:
- Drop zone of the tree
- Tree health
- Site factors affecting the tree
- Load factors on the tree
- Conditions and defects that can result in limb or tree failure
Trees don’t have to be removed, if only they were under preventive maintenance before a storm. Your tree is an investment that is why we encourage you to make an effort to care for your tree correctly. A reputable tree service company will be able to help you through the decision to restore or remove.