Top Signs It’s Time to Remove a Tree from Your Yard
Trees are an essential part of your landscape—they provide shade, improve air quality, and add natural beauty to your yard. But over time, even the healthiest trees can decline due to age, disease, pests, or storm damage. In
Hiram, GA, where changing seasons and severe weather are common, it’s essential to know when a tree becomes a hazard.
Waiting too long to remove a failing tree can lead to property damage, injuries, or even more costly removal later. This guide will help you recognize the most common signs. It’s time to call a
professional for tree removal services.
The Tree Is Leaning Significantly
A leaning tree is one of the most obvious warning signs. If your tree is suddenly slanted—or the lean is getting worse—it may have root problems or internal damage, making it unstable. In Georgia, heavy rains and high winds can soften the soil and weaken roots, increasing the risk of the tree toppling.
What to watch for:
- A lean greater than 15 degrees from the vertical
- Soil cracking or upheaval near the base
- Exposed roots on one side of the trunk
If you're seeing any of these signs, the tree should be inspected immediately.
Large Dead Branches Are Falling
Dead or falling limbs don’t just pose a risk to vehicles, fences, and roofs—they also indicate that the tree is struggling to stay healthy. In some cases, it might be possible to save the tree through pruning. But if a large portion of the canopy is dead, tree removal may be the only safe solution.
Warning signs include:
- Branches falling even during calm weather
- Sections of the tree with no leaves during the growing season
- Cracks or splits where branches meet the trunk
Don’t ignore limbs falling near walkways, play areas, or your roofline. Explore Ronito’s Tree Removal Services for a safe, professional solution.
The Trunk Is Hollow or Damaged
A tree may appear healthy on the outside but be rotting from the inside out. Hollow trunks, deep cracks, or fungus growth around the base often indicate advanced internal decay. While some trees with hollow trunks can still stand, their structural integrity is compromised—and they’re much more likely to fail under stress.
Things to look for:
- Visible holes or cavities in the trunk
- Soft, crumbly wood near the base
- Bark that’s peeling or missing in large patches
Trees with more than one-third of the trunk compromised are usually unsafe to keep.
Roots Are Lifting or Causing Damage
Tree roots can grow aggressively and, over time, interfere with your home’s foundation, driveway, walkways, or underground plumbing. In some cases, lifting concrete or cracked walls is caused by expanding root systems from nearby trees.
If roots are:
- Breaking through hardscapes
- Surfacing in unusual places
- Growing into utility lines or septic systems
…it may be time to consult a tree professional.
The Tree Was Damaged in a Storm
Storms are one of the most common causes of emergency tree removals in Hiram. High winds, lightning, or saturated soil can quickly damage or uproot trees. Even if the tree is still standing, the damage may make it unstable.
After any major storm, inspect your trees for:
- Splintered or broken limbs
- Cracked trunks
- Trees leaning suddenly
Not all storm-damaged trees need to be removed, but they should be evaluated.
There Are Signs of Disease or Insect Infestation
Insects and fungal diseases can weaken trees from the inside out. Georgia’s warm climate supports pests like bark beetles, ambrosia beetles, and fungal pathogens. If a tree is too far gone, it becomes a threat to nearby healthy trees.
Common symptoms include:
- Mushrooms or fungal growth around the trunk
- Unusual leaf discoloration or loss
- Holes or sawdust at the base
- Brittle bark or limbs that snap easily
If you’re unsure, a certified arborist can diagnose the issue.
Why Prompt Tree Removal Matters
Delaying removal can have serious consequences. Trees that seem stable one day can fall the next, especially during strong winds or storms. Acting early helps you:
- Avoid structural damage to your home
- Prevent injuries to family or visitors
- Reduce emergency removal costs later
- Protect other trees from disease or pests
Even if a tree looks “mostly okay,” hidden problems can escalate quickly—especially in older trees or those near power lines and structures.
Trust Ronito’s Tree Service for Safe Removal
At Ronito’s Tree Service, we offer tree risk assessments and removals throughout Hiram, Douglasville, Vinnings, and surrounding communities. Our team is fully trained to evaluate hazardous trees and remove them safely—without damaging your yard, driveway, or home.
Need help deciding? Visit our
Tree Removal Services page or
contact us to schedule a consultation.
Schedule Your Inspection Today
Don’t wait for the next storm or property issue to take action. If you suspect a tree on your property is unsafe,
contact
Ronito’s Tree Service to schedule an inspection.
We’ll help you determine whether it’s time to remove the tree—and ensure it’s done safely and professionally.
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