How to Spot a Problem Tree Before It Becomes a Bigger One
Some trees are beautiful to look at, provide great shade, and add curb appeal to your yard. But others? They’re quietly rotting, leaning, or just waiting for the next big storm to turn your backyard into a mess. The question is—how do you know which is which? Tree issues aren’t always obvious, but there are some clear red flags that it might be time to bring in the pros.
At AmeriTree Experts, we’ve seen it all—from trees that looked fine until they split in half to ones leaning just enough to land on someone’s garage during a windy night. If you’re wondering whether it’s time to say goodbye to that big oak or maple, here are the key things to watch out for.
Signs It’s Time to Remove a Tree
You don’t need to be an arborist to notice these warning signs:
- Visible Decay or Rot
Mushrooms growing near the base of your tree? That’s not just a fairy tale—it’s often a sign of internal rot. If your tree’s trunk is soft or crumbling in spots, that’s a big red flag. - Cracks or Splits in the Trunk
A split trunk can signal structural instability. It’s like a fracture in a bone—it might hold up for a while, but eventually, something’s going to give. - Leaning More Than It Used To
All trees lean a little, but if yours is suddenly more tilted than your neighbor’s Wi-Fi antenna, it could mean the root system is failing. - Dead Branches or Sparse Leaves
If one side of the tree looks lush while the other is bare and brittle, your tree could be struggling from the inside out. - Root Damage or Uplifted Soil
Roots that are breaking through sidewalks, lifting up soil, or visibly rotting above ground are a clear sign something’s not right underground.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait Until It Falls
Waiting too long to remove a dangerous tree can lead to property damage, power outages, injuries, and insurance headaches. Plus, an emergency removal tends to cost more than a proactive one. If your tree is near your home, fence, car, or a neighbor’s property, getting it inspected sooner rather than later is a smart move.
Professional tree removal isn’t just about cutting things down—it’s about doing it safely, efficiently, and without tearing up your yard in the process. The team at AmeriTree Experts brings years of experience, the right equipment, and the know-how to assess your tree and remove it if needed.
Conclusion
Not every tree needs to go, but ignoring the signs of a dying or unstable one could lead to much bigger problems down the road. Whether it’s visibly leaning, rotting from the base, or dropping limbs like it’s trying to make a point, it might be time to call in the experts.
Want to know for sure? Start by checking out our Tree Removal Service page. Need help with trimming instead? We offer expert Tree Trimming and Pruning Services too. Have an old stump causing trouble? Our Stump Removal Services have you covered. Ready to get in touch? Visit our Contact Us page today to schedule a professional assessment.