How to Tell If a Tree is Dead and Needs to be Removed
It can be challenging for a property owner to tell whether a tree is dead or alive. The task is even more difficult in the winter season when most trees look dead. There can still be hope for diseased and damaged trees in some cases, but it is impossible to revive a fallen tree. When you have a dead tree in your yard, there is no other way around but to have it removed before it can cause trouble. We are here to tell you some of the most common signs to help you determine the situation of your tree and give you an idea of what you're supposed to do after.
 
Things to Check for on a Dead Tree
First off, assess the actual tree and look for some physical signs of it being dead. You can perform simple tests or inspect for apparent signs to help you tell whether the tree is dead or not.
Fungus Growth
Inspect the tree's trunk and look for signs of fungus at its base. Fungus growth is one of the most apparent signs of a dead tree. It could mean that the inside of the trunk has decayed and the tree is already dead.
Tree Trunk Damage
It doesn't end with fungus growth. Keep evaluating the tree trunk and look for vertical cracks in it. If you see any serious damage, it could be a sign that the tree is in bad shape. If the tree is healthy, its bark will grow back even if it falls off due to maturity. If it remains bald and smooth, your tree may be in danger.
Check for Bare Branches
Tree branches should be dense with leaves in spring or summer, but if they are not, it can be an indicator that it is damaged. In some cases, only one side of the tree is affected with bare branches, and the other side is fine. It can mean that the tree is only diseased on one side, but it could still be a problem because the tree will become lopsided and breakdown because of its weight.
Check for Damaged Roots
Checking for damaged roots is not as easy as it seems. The good thing is, some signs can help you tell if the roots are damaged. If the tree is leaning towards one side, it can signal that the tree's root is not as stable compromising the structure of the tree. Also, epicormic shoots can be found at the base of the trunk of a tree with weak roots. Some activities by humans can contribute to the root's damage such as excavation and construction projects as they can loosen the soil that could lead to shallow root systems.
Perform Scratch or Break Test
One of the easiest ways to determine the health of a tree is by performing a scratch test. With a small knife, scratch one of the tree's branches, and if it shows green and moist flesh, then your tree is in good shape. Do this to some more branches in different parts of the tree, and if they all show the same result, you've got a healthy tree.
 
How to Tell if a Tree is Dead in the Winter
It can be extra challenging to tell if a tree is dead or not in their dormant stage because most trees could appear dead in winter. It would help to look for signs of buds on the branches because healthy trees have buds even in winter. You can also use the scratch test to identify a dead tree in your yard.
 
Why are Dead Trees an Issue?
The issue of dead trees go beyond aesthetic reasons but more importantly, on the risk, they pose not just to your property, but human lives. There are plenty of reasons why you should not think twice in having your dead tree removed, and we had them compiled for you.
Disease/ insects can spread to other trees
One of the major culprits for a dead tree is a disease. If your tree is diseased, the other trees surrounding it are also in danger of getting infected. Diseases can quickly spread among trees, which can result in more dead trees in your yard.
Attracts insects/pests
Dead trees don't only infect healthy trees with diseases, but they can also draw a swarm of dangerous insects and pests. Rats and termites often make dead trees their refuge, and soon enough, they will be invading your home, too.
Dead branches falling
If your tree is dead, it would have dead branches. A dead branch can fall anytime and cause injury to pedestrians or damage to your property.
Dead Trees can be A Hazardous
Aside from dead branches falling, you should also be concerned with the entire tree ultimately toppling over. Dead trees have compromised the structure and can fall entirely to the ground or anything close to it. If a dead tree is near power lines, buildings, or roads, it can mean a disaster when it finally falls. It is best to have a dead tree removed before the worst scenario happens.
 
How to Determine if a Dead Tree Should be Removed
In most cases, a dead tree should be removed, but there are instances when it is okay to leave it be.
If it is in a remote place, you can leave it alone: Dead trees in these areas can be home to different wildlife.
If 50% of the tree is damaged, it should be eliminated: Trees in this situation may be beyond recovery, so it is best to have them removed.
Near hazardous situations: For safety reasons, a dead tree near power lines or other fixed structure should be removed immediately.
If it could be advantageous to other trees near it: Will removing the tree benefit trees surrounding it? If the answer is yes, then remove it by all means.
 
What to Do If You Have a Dead Tree
If you are certain your tree needs to be removed (or even if you are not), it is best to contact your local tree removal company to get the job done. Professional tree removal companies have certified arborists who can tell you whether your tree can still be salvaged or if it needs to be removed. They can provide you with the estimate for the service to be performed so you can decide what options you have with the tree.

 Tree care can be challenging on different levels. It requires skill and experience because there are risks involved that cannot be neglected. For this reason, tree care should be left to the expert hands of tree professionals. However, hiring a tree company to handle the job is not as easy as well. How can you tell if the company is the best choice for the role? What is the assurance that you can get the best service and the best value for your money? To help you make a sound decision on who you should hire for tree care, here are some of the most critical questions you should ask a tree service company.

1. Do they have the latest certificate of insurance and a copy of their contract? Some homeowners who fail to ask this question fall victim to companies that are not insured. This is essential information about the company because you don't want to be held liable if anyone gets injured or anything gets damaged in your property while they perform tree care.
2. What are their credentials? Do not consider a company unless they have an in-house arborist who is certified by an International Society of Arboriculture or Tree Care Industry Association Accredited Business. If they fail to provide you with their credentials, jump to the next company on your list.
3. Can they provide you with references? Every reputable tree company would have a list of their satisfied clients and can offer you some, upon request. Look for recent referrals because you can get more reliable information from them.  Further ask for referral relative to the service you require.  That is, if you are considering a tree removal service then ask about past customers that use them for that same service.  
4. Can they provide you with a detailed written estimate? Don't stick with just one company. Get at least three written estimates from different companies. The estimate should outline information about the details of the service including the duration and its cost.
5. What equipment will they use? A professional tree company will not use heavy equipment in your yard if they know it will damage your lawn and other plantings in the yard. It doesn't hurt to ask their policy about damaging any objects in your yard. You should also ask them about clean-up and what it includes.
6. How long will the project take? You should go back to the written estimate because companies can finish the job in different durations. You can hold them accountable in case they don't stand by their word in the written estimate.
7. Do they show professionalism? Notice the small details of a tree company. Do they maintain their tools and trucks? Do they reply or call back promptly when you contact them? You can also check their website, if they, to find out more about their services and history.
8. How long have they been in the tree industry? The more seasoned a tree professional is, the better he can handle any tree care needs you have.
9. Do they practice "topping?" If they do, run away from them because topping can have irreversible damage to the health of your tree. An experienced tree company knows the right technique in trimming and pruning, which doesn't include topping.
10.  Do they use protective equipment while on the job? It is a must for tree experts to wear safety gears for protection. No matter how simple the task is, they are required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to wear protective equipment.

If you have trees in your yard, it is essential to give them the proper care they deserve for them to continue showering you with countless benefits. If you are still contemplating whether you should hire a tree service or not, read on. We will tell you in this blog the importance of tree trimming for the health and safety of your tree.

​
It improves your tree's health
Dead branches are unsightly and should be eliminated right away. This will prevent the tree from further decay and can save your entire tree from eventually dying. Dead branches can also be a potential hazard because they can fall onto your roof anytime.

It enhances your property's aesthetics and increases your property value
We always emphasize the importance of trees in improving the beauty of your yard. You should take care of them and ensure that they look their best all the time. Beautiful trees significantly increase the value of a property when it is time to sell it. To keep your trees in condition, hiring a certified arborist is a must. An arborist will know the right techniques to maintain your tree's health and improve its shape. When you have an appealing tree in your yard, it can attract potential buyers quickly.

It detects tree problems
It may be difficult for an average homeowner to determine if a tree has health problems because of a lack of experience and knowledge. This is something that professional arborists can do well. Early detection can save your tree from diseases that can lead to its death. Routine tree maintenance is necessary for keeping your tree health. The earlier you find out your tree has a health problem, the bigger the chance it can survive and recover.

It improves fruit yield
If you have a fruit-bearing tree in your yard, do it a favor by having it trimmed regularly. Proper trimming helps your tree yield more fruit. You will have more to harvest when the time comes, and you will notice an increase in size as well. Trimming trees in the late winter usually do the trick. By doing this, you let the center of the tree to be exposed to the sun so it can get enough nutrients which are necessary for producing fruits.

Saves you money
How can professional trimming save you money when you have to pay for their service? Simple. House repairs due to tree damage cost a lot more than that of a professional tree service. Why do you have to wait for the worst to happen when you can prevent it by getting a certified arborist to handle tree trimming. Doing it yourself may also put you in harm which is not worth the money you save on hiring a professional.

These are some of the advantages you get when hiring a professional tree company. Remember that your tree is a good investment that is why you should also invest in keeping it healthy and safe.

Sometimes, we want to hire a tree company with the cheapest service. It is understandable because who doesn't want to save on cash? However, tree work is difficult work. If you hire amateurs, you will be putting yourself and your property at risk. Most often than not, companies that offer low cost on tree service are the ones who do not employ certified arborists and do not have the proper equipment to do the job. Experience in tree service is significant because it will ensure clients that the job will be taken care of correctly and efficiently. It also proves that homeowners around the area trust you.

Professionalism
Companies that have been providing service for years can offer services that are beyond the standard tree service. If the company has a website where you can check their services, and they provide you with a business card, it is a good indication of their professionalism. This kind of company knows how to provide excellent customer service because they have been in the business for years and they have dealt with almost every type of clients.

Speed and Accuracy
If you want any tree service done to your property, you want it done fast and safe. However, if you choose to hire a tree service with little experience, they may be able to do it quickly but not accurately, or vice versa. The good thing about hiring an experienced tree service is that they can be both efficient and accurate without compromising on the other. They will have to work for less time in your property, and you can be confident that the job is done well. If the tree company doesn't know how to perform a tree service properly, it will require more time, and they can even cause damage to your tree and your property.

Certification
Certification is essential to prove that the tree company is experienced in the field of tree service. A Certified Arborist is someone who knows everything that needs to be learned about tree service, and if the company has one on their team, it means that they can handle all types of tree service expertly. Check if the company has a certification given by the International Society of Arboriculture to make sure you are dealing with qualified arborists. Although a license is enough to prove professionalism, certifications are added points to show that the company is committed to excellent service.  Also, having training arborists on staff will ensure tree trimming is done correctly and safely.  

Insurance
Companies that have been in the industry for years know how important coverage is to keep their clients protected from any liabilities of any kind when they work in their property. Experienced companies will invest in this vital aspect of tree service because they don't only care about the trees they maintain but also their relationship with their valued clients. Worker's compensation is not cheap, but it is essential to ensure everything will be covered if an unfortunate event happens. Insurance coverage will not only benefit the client but also give the tree company a good reputation among its clients.

Call Pensacola Tree Service when you need experienced yet affordable tree care.  

​More than being unsightly, a dead tree can cause potential damage to your property and injure people around it. Do not wait for any of these unwanted events to happen before addressing the issue. Prevention is way better than a tree falling into your precious home or harming your loved ones.

Some homeowners opt to do their own tree removal to save on costs. Although handling your own tree removal may save you money, you may face a potential danger that you will find difficult to handle. If you don't plan ahead, you might not be ready where the tree will fall and this will cause harm not only to you but also to your property. Damages done by trees can be costly, so if you don't want to take the risk, it is better to use professional service. 

If the homeowner is confident that he can take care of the tree removal, he can definitely do it on his own. Once the process is done, he will be left with the tree stump. This is another difficult and rather messy task to fulfill. Stump removal is more intricate and complicated compared to tree removal because of the equipment that needs to be used. Further, the size and species of the tree stump will add to the challenge of removing it. If you decide to remove the stump on your own, you also have to deal with the debris and the wood that it will leave you with. You can haul it away, use as firewood, or you can throw it away. If you think tree stump removal can be too overwhelming for you, contact your trusted tree care service to assist you with it.

Letting the experts handle tree removal for you is still the most ideal way to go. They've been doing the process for years and they already know the right process that should be followed to ensure that your tree will be taken down efficiently and safely. They not only have the skill, but also the proper equipment to effectively remove the tree and the stump, as well.

If a tree is large (over 20-30 feet in height), please call Pensacola Tree Service LLC to a free tree removal estimate. Large trees can be very dangerous to remove, so please let our experts handle it for you.