Don’t Ignore these Signs that a Tree Is Creating a Safety Risk
Sawtooth Tree Service • 3 December 2024
Trees are valuable assets to your property, offering natural beauty, as well as shade on hot days. However, trees can also become safety hazards if they’re not properly maintained or if they’re suffering from structural or health issues. Recognizing the warning signs of a dangerous tree can help prevent accidents and property damage. At Sawtooth Tree Service, our local arborists can identify hazardous trees and safely remove them as necessary. Here are five signs that a tree may be creating a safety risk on your property.
Visible Rot or Decay
Rot and decay can compromise a tree’s structural integrity. Signs of decay include fungal growth at the base, hollow sections, or discolored bark. A decayed tree trunk or branches are much weaker and more likely to break, potentially creating a serious safety hazard.
Cracks/Splits in the Trunk
Large cracks or splits in a tree trunk may indicate internal weakness, making the tree susceptible to breaking during storms or snow.If you notice significant cracks, it’s a good idea to have a certified arborist assess the tree.
Substantial Leaning
Some trees naturally grow at an angle, but a sudden or significant lean could indicate a serious issue. Trees that lean due to root damage or poor anchoring are at risk of falling, especially during high winds or storms. Take action if you notice exposed roots or changes in the tree's angle over time.
Dead or Weak Branches
Dead branches are a major safety hazard, as they can fall without warning. Large, overhanging branches are especially dangerous if they extend over structures, walkways, or power lines. Watch for branches that appear dry, lack foliage, or show visible cracks, and address these issues promptly to avoid accidents.
Damage from Storms or Construction
Storm damage, such as broken branches or a split trunk, can leave a tree unstable. Similarly, construction near the root zone can weaken the tree by damaging its roots or soil support. Trees with damaged roots may not show symptoms immediately but can suddenly start to fail months later.
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When disease strikes, tree health can decline quickly. Identifying the early signs of disease is crucial to prevent the problem from spreading and to protect your property. At Sawtooth Tree Service, our local arborists can identify diseased trees and then determine whether they can be treated or if they should be safely removed to prevent safety hazards. Here’s a look at five general signs of tree disease. Discolored or Wilting Leaves Healthy trees typically have vibrant, full leaves during the growing season. When a tree becomes diseased, the leaves often turn yellow, brown, or black. You may also notice wilting or drooping leaves, even when the tree has adequate water. These symptoms can indicate fungal infections, bacterial diseases, or other underlying health issues. Unusual Growths on the Bark or Trunk The presence of growths—like cankers, galls, or fungi—on the trunk is a strong indicator of tree disease. Cankers often appear as sunken, dead areas of bark, while galls are abnormal, swollen growths caused by pests or infection. Fungus growing at the base of the tree can suggest decay inside the trunk, which can weaken the tree’s structure. Premature Leaf Drop When trees shed their leaves before the end of the growing season, it’s often a sign that the tree is under stress. While premature leaf drop can occur due to environmental stressors, it is also a common symptom of diseases like anthracnose. Dead or Dying Branches Branches that appear brittle or have no leaves or suggest a potential problem. Disease can cause parts of the tree to die off as it struggles to maintain healthy growth. Dead branches not only indicate disease, but also pose a safety risk since they are prone to breaking and falling. Cracks or Peeling Bark The bark serves as a protective layer for a tree, and when it begins to crack or peel, it’s often a sign of disease. Bark damage can occur due to infections, decay, or pests that compromise the tree’s outer layer. Deep cracks may expose the tree to further infections and reduce its ability to transport water and nutrients, leading to further decline. Arborist in Boise, ID When you need tree care in Boise and the surrounding area, contact Sawtooth Tree Service at (208) 268-8199 . Our team of local arborists provides expert residential and commercial tree care in greater Boise. Feel free to give us a call to request a free arborist estimate in Boise, ID!
After having a tree cut down, it might be tempting to leave the stump behind and let nature take its course. However, leaving stumps can lead to several problems, from creating eyesores to posing tripping hazards. At Sawtooth Tree Service, we provide expert stump removal in the greater Boise area. Here are five benefits of removing the stumps after cutting down trees. Prevent New Growth One of the biggest issues with leaving a tree stump behind is the potential for new growth. Many tree species can regrow from the stump, sprouting new shoots that become unsightly and difficult to manage. These shoots can also compete with nearby plants for nutrients, impacting the health of your landscaping. Removing the stump ensures that the tree is completely gone and won’t regrow. Improve Curb Appeal Tree stumps can be eyesores that detract from the beauty of your yard. By removing the stump, you create a clean, open space that enhances your home’s curb appeal. If you're thinking about selling your home, a stump-free yard will be more attractive to potential buyers. Reduce Risk of Pests Tree stumps can quickly become a magnet for pests such as termites and ants. As the stump decays, it provides a perfect environment for insects to thrive. Some of these pests, particularly termites, can eventually make their way into your home, causing further damage. Removing the stump mitigates the risk of attracting unwanted pests to your property. Promote Safety Stumps left in your yard can be a safety hazard, especially if they’re in high-traffic areas. People, especially children, may trip over the stump, leading to injuries. Also, a hidden stump can damage lawn mowers or other yard equipment if not noticed in time. By removing the stump, you reduce the risk of accidents and equipment damage. Make Room for New Landscaping A tree stump can take up valuable space that could be used for other landscaping purposes. Whether you want to plant a new tree or install a patio, the presence of a stump can limit your options. Stump removal opens up space and allows you to make better use of your yard. Stump Removal in Boise, ID For stump grinding and removal in Boise and the surrounding area, contact Sawtooth Tree Service at (208) 268-8199 . Feel free to give us a call to ask for a free arborist estimate in Boise!
Maintaining the health and beauty of trees is important for your landscape, but when it comes to pruning, it's not a simple task that should be tackled without expertise. Hiring a professional arborist to handle your tree pruning is often the safest and most effective option. At Sawtooth Tree Service, our local ISA-certified arborists provide expert tree pruning in the greater Boise area. Here are four reasons why it's smart to leave this job to the experts instead of doing it yourself. Expert Knowledge of Tree Biology Arborists are trained in tree biology and understand how trees respond to pruning. They know exactly which branches to remove without causing harm to the tree. Improper pruning by someone without expertise can lead to issues like poor growth, increased susceptibility to pests and diseases, or even the death of the tree. An experienced arborist will ensure that the pruning process enhances the tree’s health rather than damages it. Proper Tools and Techniques Tree pruning requires specialized tools, such as high-quality saws and pruners, that are designed for the job. Using the wrong tools or improper techniques can result in rough cuts that leave the tree vulnerable to infection. Arborists use professional-grade equipment to make clean cuts that promote faster healing and reduce the risk of disease. Enhanced Safety Pruning trees, especially large or tall ones, can be a dangerous task. Climbing trees or using ladders while handling sharp tools puts you at risk of falling or otherwise injuring yourself. Arborists are trained in safety protocols and use the necessary equipment, such as harnesses and climbing gear, to perform the job safely. They are also experienced in assessing the structural integrity of the tree to avoid accidents caused by falling branches. Disease and Pest Detection When an arborist prunes your trees, they can also inspect them for signs of disease or pest infestations. Early detection of these issues can save your trees from serious damage or even death. An arborist’s trained eye can spot potential problems that might go unnoticed by an untrained person. By catching these issues early, arborists can recommend treatments to preserve the health of your trees. Professional Tree Pruning in Boise, ID For tree care in Boise and the surrounding area, contact Sawtooth Tree Service at (208) 268-8199 Feel free to give us a call to request a free arborist estimate in Boise!
At Sawtooth Tree Service, it’s our mission to earn our customers’ trust and satisfaction by consistently doing top-quality tree work at fair rates. No matter the scope of the job, our team of local arborists will work meticulously to complete it to the highest standards. And we’re thankful when our customers provide feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “Professional, efficient and personable at a fair price! The Sawtooth Tree Service crew safely removed a very large dead linden (50 ft +) from my yard. All material was taken away except for what we requested to save for firewood which was neatly stacked. The stump was ground down making it easy to overseed with grass. Skilled and friendly, these guys know how to handle a chainsaw! Thanks for doing a great job!” — Michelle M. “Sawtooth Tree Service did a phenomenal job removing a large limb from a silver maple that was hanging over our house. They are fast, efficient, safe and thorough, and they left a very clean job site. If you need tree work done, give Sawtooth a call!” — Ben B. “Patrick, Dave and their team did a great job taking down our tree which was very close to our house. Their price was very reasonable, the team was professional and they were very accommodating and kind. Thank you so much for your help!” — Janet G. “Sawtooth helped us twice on short notice. In Fall when we had a very big Blue Spruce about to fall down, and again in Spring after late snow broke our Crabapple. Both times they were prompt, efficient, and skilled. They cleaned up the problems, left no mess, and their arborist on the team took good care of our trees. They quoted much less than their competition, also. We would definitely choose Sawtooth for future tree work in our yard.” — Robb B. “We had Sawtooth Tree Service remove a maple tree and grind a couple stumps in our back yard after receiving a recommendation from a friend that used the company for a job. The crew did an excellent job! Easy process from getting a quote to the job completion and payment. Reasonably priced and excellent site cleanup. Thank you guys! Highly recommended.” — Marley M. Tree Service in Boise, ID When you need an ISA-certified arborist in Boise and the surrounding area, contact Sawtooth Tree Service at (208) 268-8199 . Feel free to give us a call to request a free arborist estimate in Boise!
When a tree descends into poor health, it can become a serious safety risk, as it is more prone to toppling over in high winds. Recognizing the signs of a dying tree can help you take action to potentially save it or remove it before it becomes a hazard. If you suspect that a tree on your property is dying, it’s best to call in an experienced arborist. At Sawtooth Tree Service, we’re experts at identifying dying trees. Then, as necessary, we can safely remove them. Here’s a look at four warning signs that a tree is dying. Sparse or Discolored Foliage Healthy trees have full, vibrant canopies during their growing seasons. If you see that your tree has sparse, discolored, or wilting leaves, it may be suffering from disease, pests, or environmental stresses. Yellowing/browning leaves out of season or premature leaf drop are red flags indicating the tree is under distress. Cracks and Splits in the Trunk The trunk of a tree is its main support system, so any damage here is particularly concerning. Large cracks or splits in the trunk can indicate structural problems and internal decay. If you notice deep fissures or areas where the bark is splitting, this can be a sign that the tree is struggling to transport nutrients and water effectively. Such issues can compromise the tree's stability, making it more prone to falling. Presence of Fungi Fungi growing at the base of a tree or on the trunk are often signs of internal rot. These organisms thrive on decaying wood, so their presence indicates that the tree has dead or decaying tissue. While not all fungi are harmful, a significant or sudden increase in fungal growth should be taken seriously, as it often signifies a dying tree. Dead or Falling Branches A tree that is shedding branches or has many dead limbs is in distress. Dead branches can be identified by their brittle nature and lack of leaves. When a tree is dying, it will often shed its outer branches first. This can create a serious safety hazard. Dead branches can fall unexpectedly, posing a risk to people and property below. Tree Removal in Boise, ID When you need an arborist in Boise and the surrounding area, contact Sawtooth Tree Service at (208) 268-8199 . We provide expert residential and commercial tree care in the greater Boise area. Feel free to give us a call today to ask for a free arborist estimate in Boise!
Wood chips are a versatile material that can transform your yard in various ways. Whether you're aiming for functionality or aesthetics, integrating wood chips can be beneficial. At Sawtooth Tree Service, we provide wood chip delivery in the greater Boise area. Here’s a look at four ways to use wood chips on your property. Mulch Around Plants and Trees One of the most common and beneficial uses of wood chips is as mulch around plants and trees. Mulching with wood chips helps retain moisture in the soil, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. This is an affordable way to help keep your plants healthy year-round. Create Garden Pathways Wood chip pathways offer a natural and rustic appeal. They are particularly suitable for informal garden settings, woodland areas, or around vegetable gardens. Pathways made of wood chips are easy to install and maintain, and they provide a soft surface that is gentle on the feet. Also, they can help with drainage by allowing water to permeate through to the soil below. Playground Surfacing If you have children or pets, using wood chips as a playground surface is a practical and safe choice. Wood chips provide a cushioned surface that absorbs impact and reduces the risk of serious injury from falls. Regular maintenance, such as replenishing the chips and removing debris, will help ensure the longevity and safety of the playground surface. Natural Weed Control Using wood chips as a weed barrier can significantly reduce the time and effort spent on weed management in your yard. Apply a thick layer of wood chips (typically 2-4 inches) around plants and in garden beds to help smother existing weeds and, more importantly, to prevent new ones from sprouting. This can help suppress weeds while also improving the soil as the wood chips decompose. Wood Chips in Boise, ID When you need wood chip delivery in Boise and the surrounding area, contact Sawtooth Tree Service at (208) 268-8199 . Feel free to give us a call today to ask for a free arborist estimate in Boise!
Trees are essential components of our environment, providing oxygen, shade, beauty, and habitat for wildlife. However, there are situations where trees need to be removed for safety, health, or practical reasons. At Sawtooth Tree Service, our local arborists provide expert tree removal in the greater Boise area. Here’s a look at four common reasons that trees need to be removed. Disease and Decay Fungi and bacteria commonly infect trees, causing rot, weakening of the structure, and potentially death. Signs of disease include wilting leaves, discolored foliage, cankers, and fungal growth on the trunk. If left untreated, diseased trees pose a risk of falling, potentially causing injuries and property damage. In such cases, removal may be necessary to prevent further spread of the disease and mitigate safety hazards. Structural Instability As trees age, their structural integrity may decline due to various factors such as root damage, trunk decay, or adverse weather conditions. Trees with structural defects are prone to failure, especially during storms or high winds. Structural instability can pose significant risks to nearby structures, vehicles, and people. To prevent accidents and property damage, it's often best to remove structurally compromised trees. Encroachment and Space Limitations Trees often need to be removed when they outgrow their surroundings or encroach upon buildings, utility lines, or other infrastructure. Also, roots can damage foundations, sidewalks, and underground utilities, posing costly repair expenses. In urban environments, where space is limited, strategic tree removal may be necessary to maintain a balance between greenery and infrastructure. Pest Infestations Pest infestations can wreak havoc on tree populations, causing widespread decline. When infestations become severe and treatment options are limited, removing infected trees may be necessary to prevent further spread and preserve the health of neighboring trees. Tree Removal in Boise, ID When you need an arborist in Boise and the surrounding area, contact Sawtooth Tree Service at (208) 268-8199 . We provide expert residential and commercial tree care in the greater Boise area. Feel free to give us a call today to ask for a free arborist estimate in Boise!
Trees are fascinating organisms that play a crucial role in the planet’s health. It’s estimated that trees first appeared on Earth over 350 million years ago. Since then, trees have become a critical component of the planet’s interconnectedness, supplying breathable air, as well as habitat for a wealth of species. At Sawtooth Tree Service, we admire these green giants and we love to share our knowledge about them. Here’s a look at five interesting facts about trees. Ancient Tree Trees often live well into the hundreds of years old, but some trees are much older. Topping the list is the Methuselah, a bristlecone pine found in the White Mountains of California, estimated to be over 4,800 years old. This estimate places it as older than the Great Pyramid Of Giza. Champions of Adaptation Trees have evolved an impressive array of survival tactics to thrive in diverse environments. For example, the baobab tree, native to Africa, stores thousands of liters of water in its trunk to endure harsh droughts. Meanwhile, the quaking aspen reproduces not only through seeds but also by sending up new shoots from its roots, creating vast colonies of genetically identical trees. A Sanctuary for Biodiversity Forests are biodiversity hotspots, teeming with life at every level. Trees provide habitat and sustenance for countless species, from tiny insects to majestic predators. Tropical rainforests, especially, harbor an astonishing array of biodiversity, with some trees supporting hundreds of different species within their canopies. Communication Through the Forest Below the forest floor lies a bustling network of communication and connectedness. Through a vast underground web of fungi known as mycorrhizal networks, trees share nutrients, water, and even warnings about potential threats. This intricate system is familiarly referred to as the "Wood Wide Web.". Nature's Carbon Sinks Through the process of photosynthesis, trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, storing carbon in their trunks, branches, and roots. Forests act as carbon sinks, helping to mitigate the detrimental effects of greenhouse gas emissions and stabilize the Earth's climate. Tree Service in Boise, ID When you need an ISA-certified arborist in Boise and the surrounding area, contact Sawtooth Tree Service at (208) 268-8199 Feel free to give us a call today to arrange a free arborist estimate in Boise!
When trees are healthy, they are beautiful landscape features that improve the environment. But in certain situations, trees can become serious safety hazards that are prone to crashing down and causing injuries and property damage. At Sawtooth Tree Service, our local ISA-certified arborists are experts at identifying hazardous trees. Then, as necessary, we can safely cut them down. Here’s a look at four warning signs that your tree is posing a safety risk. Heavy Leaning One of the most obvious signs of a potentially hazardous tree is if it is leaning or tilting noticeably. While some healthy trees do grow at an angle, sudden leaning or tilting can be a cause for concern. This may indicate that the tree's root system is compromised, either due to soil erosion, disease, or structural issues. Also, trees that lean towards structures such as homes, power lines, or roads pose an increased risk and should be inspected promptly by a professional arborist. Cracks or Splits in the Trunk Cracks or splits in a tree's trunk can weaken its structural integrity, making it susceptible to failure. Cracks/splits may result from various factors, including storms, extreme weather conditions, or disease. Also, the presence of decay or fungal growth around these areas can further indicate underlying issues that require immediate attention. Root Damage or Exposed Roots A tree's root system is essential for stability and nutrient uptake, so any damage to the roots can compromise its overall health and safety. Signs of root damage include exposed roots, soil erosion around the base of the tree, and heaving soil. Construction activities, soil compaction, or even nearby excavation work can injure tree roots and weaken their anchoring ability. Dead or Diseased Branches Dead or diseased branches pose significant risks if they were to fall. These branches are more prone to breakage, particularly during storms or high winds, and can cause damage to property or injure individuals below. Signs of dead or diseased branches include lack of foliage, discoloration, and brittle texture. Regular pruning can help mitigate this risk, but if a tree has a significant amount of dead or diseased branches, it may be safer to have it removed by a professional arborist. Tree Removal in Boise When you need an arborist in Boise and the surrounding area, contact Sawtooth Tree Service at (208) 268-8199 . Feel free to give us a call today to arrange a free arborist estimate in Boise!
At Sawtooth Tree Service, we aim to consistently exceed our customers’ expectations by providing accurate estimates, fair rates, attentive service, and top-quality tree work. As proud members of Boise’s small business community, we strive to earn our customers’ trust and respect. And we truly appreciate it when our customers take the time to offer feedback about the work that we did. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “These guys are fantastic! They dropped two trees, trimmed up another, did the stump grinding and even added in a little extra cleaning touch that was just impressive. I was pleased and will be calling them again for future work.” — Anita S. “I was amazed by Dave and his crew. Very coordinated and efficient. We wanted to keep the wood from the tree so Dave had a crane operator help remove the tree. And then delivered the logs to our country property. Thank you Dave and crew.” — Andrew W. “Dave and his crew removed several trees for our HOA over the past year. They are a pleasure to work with and they deliver good value quickly and effectively.” — Tom H. “This week, Sawtooth Tree Service removed two large Honey Locust trees (each over 40' tall) from our backyard. The crew were all skilled and knew exactly what to do and had the right equipment to complete the job efficiently. They completed the job in less than three hours. All walkways, ground area, driveway, and street were cleaned up of all debris. They took care to ensure that several mats were laid on the grass to protect from heavy equipment used. I would highly recommend them, with no reservations, to anyone needing tree removal service.” — Dick B. “These guys did an amazing job! I've used them a number of times now and I am extremely happy with their work. The guys are very friendly, thorough, and left the yard very clean. Couldn't be happier!” — Luci M. “I had Sawtooth come out and remove 3 trees. One was right next to the house, another overhanging into the neighbors yard and another up through the power line. The cleanup they did was on point. And from my novice point of view their abilities to rig and drop were impressive. Other than missing trees you can hardly tell they were here.” — Bryan B. Tree Service in Boise, ID When you need an ISA-certified arborist in Boise and the surrounding area, contact Sawtooth Tree Service at (208) 268-8199 . Feel free to give us a call today to arrange a free arborist estimate in Boise!
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