While trees are vital to our environment and property value, there are times when keeping a tree on your property becomes a risk. Knowing when it’s time to remove a tree can prevent major damage, costly repairs, or injury. At Western Hemlock Tree & Stump Service, we specialize in helping homeowners across Snohomish County and surrounding areas make safe, informed decisions with expert tree inspections and removal services.
Below, we break down the most common warning signs that indicate your tree may need to come down—and why you should always consult an ISA Certified Arborist before taking action.
1. The Tree Is Dead or Beyond Saving
One of the clearest signs that a tree should be removed is if it’s completely dead. Indicators include:
- No leaf growth during spring or summer
- Dry, brittle limbs that snap easily
- Peeling bark or exposed trunk
- Large sections of deadwood
Dead trees are unstable, and even a light wind or snow load can cause them to fall without warning. These should be removed immediately, especially if located near your home, driveway, fence, or power lines.
2. Visible Structural Damage to the Trunk
Deep vertical cracks, splitting, or hollow cavities in the main trunk often indicate significant internal decay. In many cases, this damage is hidden until it becomes severe.
If a tree has lost its core strength, it becomes unpredictable and dangerous. Trees with compromised trunks are far more likely to snap during storms and high winds.
3. Tree Is Leaning or Uprooting
While some trees naturally lean, a sudden or increasing lean can mean the root system has become unstable. Look for:
- Soil lifting or mounding around the base
- Exposed roots or trunk tilt
- New cracks in nearby pavement or soil
Leaning trees are emergencies—especially after windstorms or heavy rain. In these cases, immediate emergency tree removal is often required.
4. Signs of Root Damage or Disease
Because roots are underground, damage can go unnoticed. However, these signs suggest root problems:
- Mushrooms or fungal growth around the base
- Sudden canopy dieback
- Soil erosion or compaction around roots
Root decay severely limits a tree’s ability to absorb nutrients and remain anchored. Trees with extensive root damage are dangerous and often cannot be saved.
5. Pest Infestation or Tree Disease
If a tree is infested with boring insects (like bark beetles or carpenter ants) or has a spreading disease, it may no longer be viable. Common indicators include:
- Oozing sap or bark splitting
- Leaf discoloration or spotting
- Excessive defoliation outside of fall
Removing the tree early can help stop disease or pests from spreading to healthy trees nearby.
6. Dangerous Location Near Property or Utilities
Even healthy trees can pose threats when planted too close to structures. Trees should generally be removed if they are:
- Growing into power lines or over roofs
- Causing cracks in driveways or sidewalks
- Blocking sight lines or posing visibility hazards
When left unmanaged, root systems can also damage water lines, septic tanks, and foundations.
7. Storm Damage Has Weakened the Tree
Has your tree lost large limbs in a storm or become split at the trunk? Severe weather often leaves trees in a structurally compromised state—even if they’re still standing.
Broken or hanging branches, partially uprooted trees, and lightning strikes all justify a tree health evaluation. Sometimes emergency removal is the only safe option.
8. The Tree Is Overcrowded or Causing Landscape Issues
In dense wooded areas or small lots, trees can become overcrowded. Removing a select few trees can benefit the overall health of your landscape and remaining canopy. It also improves sun exposure and airflow to your property or garden.
Don’t Guess—Let a Certified Arborist Guide You
Determining whether a tree needs to be removed isn’t always obvious. Sometimes proper pruning, cabling, or treatment can restore a tree’s health. But in many cases, especially when safety is involved, proactive removal is the right decision.
At Western Hemlock Tree & Stump, our ISA Certified Arborists perform on-site evaluations to assess tree health, risk factors, and removal needs. We provide honest recommendations, free estimates, and fully insured service across:
- Snohomish
- Mill Creek
- Everett
- Mukilteo
- Lake Stevens
Contact Western Hemlock Tree & Stump Today
If you’re concerned about a tree on your property, reach out today. Our team will inspect it and let you know whether pruning, bracing, or removal is the best option. We respond quickly to emergency cases and offer competitive pricing on all removal work.
📞 Call us at 425-374-8996 or request your free estimate online.
