Although the summer weather is perfect for spending much needed time outside, fluctuations in temperature can generate heavy thunderstorms. If there are large trees on your property, they may pose a serious risk to your home if they are weak. Luckily, there are ways to prevent damage. This guide presents important tree care tips to consider before a storm.

Ways Trees Can Be Damaged 

When a storm passes through, it often brings strong winds, rain, and lightning. Common ways your trees can be damaged by these harsh weather conditions include snapped branches and weakened trunks. In some severe cases, a tree may fully blow over due to strong winds.

Signs Your Trees Are Susceptible to Storm Damage

Although healthy trees can be damaged from storms, some trees are more susceptible to it. Trees with large cracks in their trunks, rotting branches, and angled limbs are at higher risk. Rotting roots also make a tree more likely to be damaged in a storm since they weaken its entire structure. Additionally, trees near power lines can cause power outages if a branch moves or falls on the wires. 

How to Prepare Your Trees

Storms can sometimes be unpredictable, but it is possible to minimize the damage caused by them. Here are a few tree care tips you should follow.

• Pruning: This is a common practice that involves carefully cutting away parts of a tree’s branches to control the direction of growth. The angle of the branches can make them stronger or weaker. Branches that point upward should have between 30 and 45-degree angles. Branches that spread horizontally should not be longer than the diameter of the trunk.

• Branch Removal: Broken or snapped branches can easily fall off a tree in high winds and damage your home. In addition to pruning, completely removing these loose branches is the best course of action. Branches that rub together should also be removed because they are prone to decay, which weakens them.

• Tree Removal: If a tree has rotting roots, removal is the safest option. Depending on the size and depth, cracks in the trunk are also grounds for tree removal. An arborist can further assist you with the decision to remove a tree. 

If you are searching for a skilled arborist to maintain your trees this summer, contact Tackett Tree Experts LLC in Vandalia, OH. With over 60 years of experience, this company specializes in both residential and commercial tree care. Their licensed and insured team provides quality services at affordable prices. Visit them online to learn more about their services, and call (937) 890-2140 to request a free estimate.