Dead trees may seem harmless at first glance, but they can quickly become serious hazards if left standing. Once a tree dies, its structure begins to weaken, making it more vulnerable to breaking or falling. While it might be tempting to postpone removal, doing so can put your property, safety, and surrounding landscape at risk. Removing a dead tree is a job best left to professionals who have the equipment and experience to do it safely. At Orange County Tree Service, our local arborists can identify and safely remove dead trees. Here are four important reasons to schedule professional removal of dead trees as soon as possible. Increased Risk of Falling As a tree decays, its roots and trunk lose strength, making it more likely to fall during storms, high winds, or even calm weather. A falling tree can cause extensive damage to homes, vehicles, fences, and power lines, and it can seriously injure anyone nearby. Because it’s difficult to predict when a dead tree might collapse, prompt removal is the safest choice. Spread of Disease and Pests Dead trees often attract insects such as termites, carpenter ants, and bark beetles, as well as fungi that thrive on decaying wood. These pests and pathogens could spread to nearby healthy trees or even infiltrate your home’s wooden structures. By removing the dead tree quickly, you help protect the rest of your landscape and prevent infestations from spreading. Liability/Safety Issues If a dead tree or large branch falls and causes injury or damage, you as the property owner may be held liable. By hiring a professional to remove the tree before it becomes a problem, you reduce your risk of legal and financial responsibility. Improved Curb Appeal A dead tree can be an eyesore, detracting from the beauty of your yard and lowering your property’s overall appeal. Prompt removal opens space for new landscaping and enhances the appearance of your home. Tree Removal in Orange County, NY For tree removal in Greenwood Lake and the surrounding area, contact Orange County Tree Service at  845-288-1340  . Feel free to give us a call to request an arborist estimate in Greenwood Lake!

When large trees become unstable, they can pose a major safety hazard. A tree at risk of falling over can damage your home, vehicles, or nearby power lines, and it can even threaten the safety of people and pets. Even when trees look rather strong, there are often warning signs that indicate structural weakness or disease. At Orange County Tree Service, our local arborists can identify hazardous trees and safely remove them as needed. Here’s a look at four warning signs that a tree is at heightened risk of falling over. Noticeable Leaning A tree that leans noticeably to one side, especially if the lean has recently worsened, is often unstable. While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a sudden lean or a lean combined with exposed roots frequently signals a compromised root system. This makes the tree more likely to fall, particularly in high winds. Cracks in the Trunk Deep cracks in the trunk are a strong indication that a tree is structurally unsound. These cracks weaken the tree’s core and reduce its ability to support its own weight. If the damage extends deep into the trunk or occurs near the base, the likelihood of collapse increases significantly. Professional evaluation is essential to determine whether the tree can be saved or if removal is the safest option. Root Damage/Uplifted Soil The roots are the foundation of any tree, and damage to them can seriously compromise stability. Signs of trouble include visible root decay, severed roots from construction, or soil that appears lifted or cracked near the base of the tree. These are red flags that the root system is no longer able to anchor the tree securely, making it far more likely to topple over. Signs of Decay Decay can significantly weaken a tree’s structure. Fungal growth near the base, soft or crumbly wood, and hollow areas are common signs of decay. While some hollowing trees may remain standing for a long time, advanced decay makes them far more susceptible to collapse, especially under stress from storms or strong winds. Tree Removal in Orange County, NY For tree removal in Greenwood Lake and the surrounding area, contact Orange County Tree Service at  845-288-1340  . Feel free to give us a call to ask for an arborist estimate in Greenwood Lake!