Trees bring shade, beauty, and value to your property, but not every tree is meant to stay forever. Whether it’s due to damage, disease, or simply bad placement, some trees can become more of a liability than an asset. So how do you know when it’s time to remove a tree?
At ProTree Services, we’ve seen it all: trees tangled in power lines, roots cracking foundations, and storm-damaged giants leaning dangerously over homes. If you’re wondering whether a tree on your property has crossed the line from helpful to hazardous, here are the signs to watch for.
Not Every Tree Can Be Saved
We get it. Removing a tree is a big decision. But ignoring a risky tree can lead to even bigger problems, from property damage to personal injury. Tree removal isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about protecting your home, your family, and your investment. And in many cases, it’s the most responsible thing you can do.
As the Arbor Day Foundation points out, tree removal can be an emotional decision, but safety, structural stability, and the well-being of your property must come first. When a tree becomes a risk, letting go is sometimes the healthiest option for your yard and your peace of mind.
Signs You Need to Remove a Tree
It’s Dead, or Looks Dead
A dead tree might still be standing, but it’s no longer stable. The wood becomes brittle, and even a mild storm can bring it crashing down. Look for these red flags:
- No leaves during growing season
- Bark falling off in sheets
- Mushrooms or fungi growing at the base
- Branches that snap easily under light pressure
If your tree looks dormant but it’s already summer, it might not be sleeping… it might be gone.
Major Structural Damage
Cracks in the trunk, deep splits in major limbs, or signs of hollowing are serious warning signs. Trees can sometimes survive injuries, but if the damage compromises more than 50% of the tree, it’s often safer to remove it.
It’s Growing Too Close to Your Home or Driveway
Even healthy trees can be in the wrong place. Trees that grow too close to your home can:
- Scratch or damage siding and roofing
- Drop limbs onto cars, sheds, or gutters
- Send roots under foundations, sidewalks, or driveways, causing cracks or upheaval
- Interfere with underground plumbing or utilities
Trees need space, both aboveground and below.
Storm Damage Has Made It Unsafe
High winds, lightning, and saturated soil can turn an otherwise healthy tree into a dangerous structure overnight. After a storm, look for:
- Uprooted or leaning trees
- Broken branches stuck in the canopy
- Split trunks or torn bark
- Trees swaying more than usual
These are all signs your tree may not recover, or may fail without warning.
Why Waiting Can Be a Costly Mistake
We’ve seen too many situations where property owners hesitated—only to end up with a crushed roof, a broken fence, or worse. Waiting too long to remove a problem tree can:
- Increase the risk of sudden collapse
- Drive up removal costs (especially if it becomes an emergency)
- Lead to complications with homeowners insurance
- Endanger your family, neighbors, or pets
If you suspect a tree is on borrowed time, it’s best to act before nature makes the decision for you.
What Happens After You Remove a Tree? Don’t Forget the Stump
Tree removal doesn’t end with the last limb. That leftover stump? It’s more than an eyesore; it’s a safety hazard and an invitation for pests. Stumps can:
- Trip people and damage lawn equipment
- Attract termites, ants, and fungi
- Sprout unwanted regrowth
That’s why ProTree offers stump grinding as an option with every removal, so your yard is left clean, level, and ready for what’s next.
Unsure What to Do? That’s What We’re Here For
Not every tree needs to be removed—some just need a little TLC. If you’re unsure, our team can evaluate the tree’s health, location, and structural integrity to help you make an informed decision. We’ll walk you through your options honestly and never push removal if trimming or monitoring makes more sense.
Call ProTree Services for Safe, Professional Tree Removal
At ProTree, we specialize in tough jobs—big trees, tight spaces, storm damage, and more. We’re fully licensed and insured, and we take safety seriously. Our crews use modern equipment and proven techniques to get the job done efficiently and with minimal disruption to your property.
If you’re wondering whether a tree on your property has outstayed its welcome, contact us today to schedule your free estimate. We’ll take a look and give you the straight truth. No pressure, just professional guidance.