Vancouver’s winter weather can bring challenges for homeowners, especially when it comes to tree safety. A falling branch can cause serious injuries and property damage—potentially damaging your roof, shattering windows, or pulling down gutters.
Every tree on your property is unique. Some fast-growing tree species are more susceptible to winter damage due to weaker wood. Also, a tree’s size and age often correlate with the level of risk it may pose, depending on its proximity to your home.
Having a trusted tree service provider on hand is crucial for dealing with such tree emergencies. Tree Contractors Northwest offers expert Washington tree care and is ready to assist with assessments and urgent situations.
If large trees are near your home, preparing for the Pacific Northwest’s wet and windy conditions is a smart precaution. From fallen branches to entire trees toppling over, conducting a thorough tree inspection can help protect your property during the winter season.
Do it Yourself: Winter Tree Safety Inspection
Properly assessing your yard and trees before and after a winter storm is key to preventing potential hazards. Begin by observing from a distance. Start at the base of the tree and scan upward, ensuring there are no immediate dangers before approaching. Here’s a breakdown of what to inspect during your evaluation.
Branches
Over-extended branches can gather heavy snow and ice, which may lead to breakage. Pay special attention to limbs extending over walkways or paths, as they pose the highest risk to people passing below.
Look for dead limbs, which are typically easier to spot, but don’t overlook smaller cracks or partially broken branches. These may be less obvious but can still create problems in the future.
Trunk
Next, inspect the trunk for any cracks, splits, or signs of weakness. Trees with multiple trunks, known as co-dominant stems, should be checked for strong connection points. Study these areas before whiner storms hit and again afterward to make sure there is no separation or new damage.
If the tree leans, make a mental note of its position. Most leaning trees have grown that way naturally and are stable. However, if the lean increases after a storm, inspect the ground around the base—especially on the opposite side of the lean—for signs of soil disturbance.
Roots
Healthy roots are also important for a stable tree. If you notice soil lifting or shifting around the base of the tree, that’s a red flag. This could indicate structural instability.
Steps to Take
Pruning
Routine tree trimming is one of the best ways to protect your home and surrounding property by addressing damaged trunks or dangerous branches.
Carefully pruning dead or weakly attached limbs can prevent accidents that involve vehicles, pedestrians, or your home. For leaning trees, trimming the ends of heavy branches can help balance the tree and lower the risk of it falling during heavy snow.
Wood Chips
Heavy amounts of rainfall or snow can oversaturate the soil, which could compromise the stability of tree roots and trunks. Applying wood chips or mulch around the base of the tree helps regulate soil moisture and keep your trees sturdy.
Tree Removal
Though this should be a last resort, tree removal can eliminate bigger risks to your property. To balance safety with environmental responsibility, consider creating a wildlife snag—a safe alternative that maintains habitat for local wildlife while also addressing safety concerns.
Protect Your Home This Winter with Expert WA Tree Services
Vancouver’s winters can be unpredictable, but a little preparation can go a long way in keeping your home and family safe. Regular tree inspections, pruning, and preventive measures like mulching around tree bases can help protect your property and make sure your trees stay healthy during the winter season.
For more complex issues or emergencies, partnering with a professional tree service like Tree Contractors Northwest is always a smart choice. Our certified arborists have the experience to handle everything from regular tree care to emergency removals, making sure your trees stay healthy and your property stays safe.
Schedule Your Washington Tree Care Today with Tree Contractors Northwest
Take action today to prepare your trees for winter. Contact Tree Contractors Northwest for professional Washington tree care you can count on.