Trees add beauty, shade, and value to your property, but sometimes they become more of a liability than an asset. Whether due to disease, storm damage, or structural instability, there are times when removing a tree is the best course of action. Knowing when a tree needs to be cut down can prevent safety hazards, protect your home, and maintain a healthy landscape.
If you’re unsure whether a tree on your property is safe, this guide will help you recognize the warning signs and understand when to seek professional tree service in South Jordan, UT, for safe and efficient removal.
Signs That Your Tree Should Be Cut Down
The Tree is Dead or Dying
One of the most obvious reasons to remove a tree is if it is dead or in the process of dying. A dead tree is not only an eyesore, but it also poses a significant risk since it can fall without warning. Here’s how to tell if your tree is dead or beyond saving:
- Lack of Leaves and Buds – If a tree fails to produce leaves in the growing season while others are thriving, it may be dead.
- Brittle Branches and Peeling Bark – Dead trees often have dry, easily breakable branches and bark that falls off in large chunks.
- Scratch Test for Life – Gently scratch a small section of the bark. If the layer underneath is brown and dry instead of green and moist, the tree is likely dead.
If your tree shows these signs, removal is necessary to prevent it from collapsing unexpectedly.
The Tree is Diseased or Infested
Trees can fall victim to diseases and pest infestations, which weaken their structural integrity and make them more susceptible to falling. Common warning signs include:
- Fungal Growth – Mushrooms growing at the base of a tree often indicate internal decay.
- Leaf Discoloration or Dieback – Sections of the tree may lose leaves or turn brown prematurely.
- Unusual Bark Patterns – Cracks, oozing sap, or cankers (sunken areas) are signs of disease.
- Pest Infestation – Termites, carpenter ants, and boring beetles create holes in the trunk and sawdust at the base.
If left untreated, diseased or infested trees can become weak and hazardous. In some cases, they may also spread the disease to surrounding healthy trees, making removal the best option.
The Tree is Structurally Unsafe
Some trees become unstable due to root damage, trunk weakness, or extreme leaning. These trees are at a high risk of falling, especially during storms or high winds. Signs of an unstable tree include:
- Significant Leaning – A sudden lean or a tree growing at an extreme angle indicates root instability.
- Cracks or Splits in the Trunk – Large cracks can compromise the tree’s ability to hold itself up.
- Root Damage – Exposed, damaged, or decaying roots weaken the tree’s foundation, making it prone to toppling.
If your tree is showing signs of instability, contact a professional tree service in South Jordan, UT, to assess whether it can be saved or should be removed.
The Tree is Too Close to Structures or Utility Lines
Trees planted too close to homes, garages, or power lines can become a major hazard. Overgrown branches can cause costly damage, while underground roots can interfere with plumbing or foundations. Consider removal if:
- Branches Touch Power Lines – Trees that make contact with electrical lines can cause power outages or fires.
- Roots Are Lifting Sidewalks or Foundations – Expanding root systems can crack driveways, damage sewer lines, and compromise building foundations.
- Branches Are Hanging Over Roofs or Driveways – Large limbs that extend over structures may break during storms and cause damage.
If a tree is encroaching on important structures, removal may be necessary to prevent accidents.
The Tree Has Sustained Storm Damage
Extreme weather conditions, such as heavy snow, ice, and strong winds, can cause severe damage to trees. After a storm, check for:
- Broken or Hanging Branches – These can fall unexpectedly and injure people or damage property.
- Lightning Strikes – Trees struck by lightning often weaken over time and may not survive.
- Excessive Snow and Ice Damage – Heavy accumulations can weigh down branches, causing them to snap.
If a storm has significantly weakened a tree, it’s best to consult a professional to determine whether it should be removed.
When to Call a Professional Tree Service in South Jordan, UT
If you suspect a tree on your property is dying, diseased, or structurally unsound, it’s time to contact an expert. Professional arborists can:
- Assess the Tree’s Health – Experts can determine whether a tree can be saved or needs removal.
- Ensure Safe and Efficient Removal – Tree removal is dangerous and should only be handled by professionals using proper equipment and safety techniques.
- Handle Cleanup and Disposal – A professional tree service ensures debris is removed, leaving your yard clean and hazard-free.
Alternatives to Tree Removal
Before cutting down a tree, it’s worth exploring other options:
- Pruning and Trimming – Removing weak branches can sometimes save a tree rather than removing it entirely.
- Bracing or Cabling – Structural supports can help stabilize leaning trees.
- Disease or Pest Treatment – If caught early, tree diseases and infestations may be treated instead of requiring removal.
However, if a tree is beyond saving, removal is the best way to prevent future risks.
Final Thoughts: Making the Right Decision for Your Trees
While trees provide shade, beauty, and environmental benefits, sometimes removing one is necessary to protect your home and family. If your tree is dead, diseased, unstable, or too close to a structure, don’t wait for disaster to strike.
For expert tree assessment and safe removal, trust Rent A Monkey’s tree service in South Jordan, UT. Our experienced team will ensure your property stays safe and your landscape remains healthy. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us help you make the best decision for your trees.
