When a severe storm sweeps through Tennessee, it can leave behind more than just broken fences and scattered debris. Often, your trees take the brunt of the damage, leaving you wondering whether they can be saved or must be removed. Knowing how to assess a storm-damaged tree and understanding your options can save you money, protect your property, and keep your landscape safe and beautiful.
This guide will help you decide when a damaged tree can be repaired, when removal is the safest option, and how to get professional help to restore your yard.
Storms can cause a range of damage, from minor branch breakage to complete tree failure. The most common forms of damage include split trunks, broken limbs, uprooted roots, and canopy tearing. Some damage may seem cosmetic, but hidden internal wounds can weaken the tree’s structure over time.
After any major weather event, inspecting your trees for damage should be a top priority. Look for broken branches hanging loosely, exposed roots, or cracks in the trunk. If you are unsure of the extent of the damage, contacting a certified arborist through Pree’s Trees’ professional tree services is the best first step. A trained eye can distinguish between a tree that can recover and one that poses a risk.
Not all storm-damaged trees need to be removed. In many cases, proper pruning and structural support can help a tree heal and regain stability. Here are a few scenarios where a tree can often be saved:
If only a few branches are broken, and the trunk and major limbs remain intact, the tree can usually recover with careful pruning. Removing torn limbs prevents further stress and allows the tree to redirect energy toward healthy growth.
Trees can survive the loss of up to one-third of their canopy. Pruning and reshaping the remaining branches can help balance the tree and stimulate regrowth over time.
A tree that leans slightly after a storm might stabilize once the soil settles. However, if the root system is exposed or the tree leans excessively, it’s time to call in a professional arborist.
Acting quickly after a storm makes a big difference. A service like Pree’s Trees’ tree cabling and support installation can reinforce weak limbs and prevent further breakage. Structural cabling offers long-term stability, especially for mature or historically significant trees.
Sometimes, even with the best care, a storm-damaged tree cannot be saved safely. If your tree poses a hazard to your home, power lines, or nearby structures, removal is necessary. Below are key warning signs that indicate removal may be the safest choice:
When a tree’s root system is lifted from the ground, it loses its ability to absorb water and anchor itself. Even if the trunk appears stable, an uprooted tree is no longer safe.
Cracks that extend deep into the trunk or large sections of missing bark compromise the tree’s strength. Over time, decay can spread, making the tree prone to collapse.
If the storm has left a tree leaning toward your home or entangled with power lines, do not attempt to handle it yourself. In such cases, contact emergency services or a professional tree removal team for help.
You can learn more about what to do in these situations in this guide on emergency tree removal.
A tree may look stable externally but have internal rot or structural weakness that makes it unsafe. Certified arborists use specialized tools to detect internal decay and determine whether the tree should be removed.
Assessing a storm-damaged tree is not always straightforward. A certified arborist evaluates the tree’s health, structure, and risk factors to recommend the most appropriate course of action. They can determine whether pruning, cabling, or removal is necessary.
Professionals like those at Pree’s Trees follow strict safety and environmental standards. They ensure that damaged trees are handled correctly, whether that means careful restoration or safe removal.
Arborists also provide guidance on protecting trees from future storms. This includes preventive pruning, strengthening weak branches, and installing tree lightning protection systems such as the ones offered through Pree’s Trees’ lightning protection services.
When a tree shows promise of recovery, the right repair techniques can make all the difference. Here are several effective methods that arborists use to help trees heal:
Selective pruning removes damaged limbs while shaping the canopy for balanced growth. It also reduces the risk of further breakage by improving wind resistance.
For trees with weakened trunks or limbs, tree cabling and support services can restore structural integrity. This technique uses high-strength cables and braces to stabilize the tree and prevent limb failure.
When a trunk or branch is wounded, proper cleaning and trimming of the damaged area help the tree compartmentalize the injury and resist disease.
Storms often compact soil and damage roots. Aeration and mulching improve oxygen flow to the roots, allowing them to recover. In severe cases, root excavation may be necessary to promote regrowth.
If removal becomes the only viable option, safety should always come first. Tree removal is a complex process that involves heavy equipment, advanced climbing techniques, and safety protocols.
Professional removal teams like those at Pree’s Trees follow a careful plan to protect surrounding structures and landscapes. Once a tree is removed, cleanup is equally important. You can see examples of high-quality cleanup work in the Arborist Gallery on their website.
Pree’s Trees also offers tree debris removal services, ensuring your property is restored quickly and safely after storm damage.
Storms will always be a part of life in East Tennessee, but preparation can greatly reduce the risk of damage. Here are a few preventive measures homeowners can take:
Routine inspections help catch issues before they become serious. Learn about early warning signs in this detailed post on tree health indicators.
Pruning keeps your trees strong and balanced. Removing weak limbs reduces wind resistance and prevents branches from snapping during storms.
Lightning strikes can cause extensive damage to large trees. Installing a tree lightning protection system can safeguard valuable trees from electrical damage and fires.
Cabling and bracing, when installed correctly, prevent limb failure and help older trees withstand high winds and heavy rains.
Trees that are diseased, decayed, or leaning dangerously should be removed before storm season begins. Proactive maintenance saves you from emergency situations and costly repairs.
Whether your trees can be repaired or must be removed, making the right decision starts with expert evaluation. Professional arborists assess the full picture: safety, health, and aesthetics. They can help you determine the best plan for your landscape.
If you are unsure about the condition of your trees after a storm, reach out to Pree’s Trees today. Their certified arborists proudly serve Loudon, Knox, and Blount Counties, providing safe and professional care tailored to East Tennessee’s unique environment.
Visit the services page to explore their full range of offerings, or contact their team to schedule a consultation.
Storms can be unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. With proper care, assessment, and professional support, you can restore your landscape safely and efficiently. From preventive maintenance to emergency response, the right arborist can make all the difference.
If you are dealing with storm-damaged trees, don’t wait for the next gust of wind to cause more harm. Contact Pree’s Trees today for expert evaluation, restoration, and long-term care that keeps your property safe and beautiful all year round.
If your tree has only minor broken branches or slight canopy loss, it can often be saved with proper pruning and support. However, trees with large cracks, uprooted roots, or significant trunk damage may not be safe to keep. Having a certified arborist inspect the tree after a storm is the best way to know whether it can be repaired or should be removed.
First, stay away from damaged trees, especially if they are near power lines. Take photos for insurance purposes, then contact a professional arborist for assessment. A certified expert from Pree’s Trees can safely evaluate your property and provide recommendations for repair, pruning, or removal.
Yes, tree cabling and support systems can stabilize weakened trees and prevent further damage. This method is often used for trees with split limbs or weak branch unions. An arborist can determine if cabling is a suitable solution based on the tree’s structure and extent of damage.
No, DIY tree removal is extremely dangerous. Storm-damaged trees can be unpredictable and may collapse without warning. Professional arborists have the equipment and training needed to remove damaged trees safely. Always hire an expert to prevent injury or property damage.
The cost varies depending on tree size, location, and the severity of the damage. Trees that are near structures or entangled with power lines require more complex removal methods. Requesting a quote from a licensed professional ensures you get accurate pricing and safe service tailored to your situation.
Regular pruning, inspections, and proper fertilization go a long way toward storm protection. Installing lightning protection systems and cabling weak branches can help too. A proactive maintenance plan designed by an arborist will strengthen your trees and minimize risks during severe weather.
Warning signs include deep trunk cracks, exposed roots, a severe lean, hollow areas, or large missing bark sections. These issues indicate compromised stability and an increased risk of falling. If you notice any of these signs, schedule a professional inspection immediately to determine whether removal is necessary.
In many cases, homeowner’s insurance will cover tree removal if the fallen tree damages your home, fence, or other structures. However, coverage may not apply if the tree simply falls in your yard without causing damage. It’s best to document the situation and contact your insurer to confirm what your policy covers.
You should contact an arborist as soon as possible after the storm passes and it’s safe to go outside. Quick response allows the arborist to assess the damage early, increasing the chances of saving your trees. Prompt evaluation also helps prevent secondary damage, such as pest infestation or decay.
If your property has storm-damaged trees, reach out to Pree’s Trees for professional help. Their certified arborists serve Loudon, Knox, and Blount Counties, offering expert tree assessments, removals, and restorations. You can also explore their services page to learn more about the complete range of professional tree care options available.