Storm Damage Dangers Weeks after a Storm

You’re Not Out of the Woods Yet

Weeks after storm passes trees can still be at risk of falling and causing damage. It is important to assess any storm damage to the trees on your property in a timely manner to avoid the falling weeks after the storm.

To Remove, or Not to Remove?

Some trees are more susceptible to disease, decay or structural problems than others because they grow so quickly and hollow out. The trees of most concern are:

• Water Oak
• Laurel Oak
• Willow Oak
• Maple

The first thing to note when assessing damage after a storm is to be cautious. Things may still be unstable and debris could fall on you. When looking at tree damage the larger the broken limb, the harder it will be for the tree to recover. That being said not all trees that are damaged need to be removed.

You can remove all damaged, dead or hanging parts and wait and see if they recover before deciding to remove the tree. You should remove the tree if:

• The lower trunk is cracked or broken (any damage to trunk really).
• Large limbs are broken.
• The tree is leaning toward a target (house, garage, fence, etc.).Usually means major roots are broken and the tree is unstable.
• A large stem has split from the tree.
• More than 50% of the branches and/or leaves are gone.
  • The tree has a low survival rate.
• The remaining tree structure is susceptible to more breakage.
  • Meaning it has multiple trunks, stems, or bark inclusions.
• Roots are visible, severed or broken.
  • Indicator of major weakness and it should be removed.
  • Professional help is needed here.

You should restore the tree if:

• The canopy is defoliated.
• Small branches are broken or dead.
• Major limbs are broken or canopy is damaged in decay resistant species that can recover because of their nature.
  • Live Oak
  • Black Locust
  • Teak
  • California Redwood
  • Bald Cyprus
• Leaning or fallen small trees.
  • Small or just planted trees can be replanted or stood up.

Too Close for Comfort?

Prior to a storm is the best time to decide whether or not to remove a tree. Some things to consider are:

1. Where is the tree? – If it touches your siding or blocks the sun from reaching part of your home it can cause mold to develop and roof damage. If it is under a power line it can be a major risk, especially when a storm hits.
2. Does it have disease? – Examine the branches, leaves and bark because it can weaken the structure and make it more prone to falling down or losing limbs. Click here for help determining diseases.
3. How close is it? – It is recommended that for large trees they remain 40 ft. away from the home and for medium to small trees they remain 20 ft. away to allow room for tree and root growth. Not enough room for roots to grow can lead to foundation issues.

Am I Covered?

You pay homeowner’s insurance so naturally you’re wondering if that storm damage or roof damage is going to be covered. Insurance policies may not cover the damage because by a falling tree because some do not cover acts of nature. You always need to check with your insurance provider but generally this flow chart will help you figure out if you are cover.

If you are experiencing storm damage to your home due to downed or damaged trees, call Reliable Restoration now to have it addressed quickly. Reliable Restoration is here for you 24/7/365 with a licensed, expert team that will restore your property back to pre-disaster condition quickly, affordably and with integrity. Visit us at: www.choosereliable.com or call us at: (678) 325-1633.