From falling branches, snapped tops and uprooted trees, storms on the coast can pack a punch, leaving property owners picking up the pieces.
However, monitoring for signs of rot and dangerous branches can help reduce the damage left behind during storm season. Osprey Tree Service owner Jared Witt suggests taking the time between storms to check the trees around your home and call in the professionals when needed.
"Trees have a lot to offer our homes, providing shade and shelter in the summer and year-round beauty, even in the heart of winter, but it's essential to ensure they don't also pose a safety risk during high wind, heavy rain and sudden snow events," Witt says.
"Having a certified arborist assess the trees surrounding structures on your property, remove damaged or fallen branches that are tangled high up, and use selective pruning on large, heavy branches can help reduce the risk of costly property damage in the event of a serious storm."
READ MORE: Ask an arborist: Is the heavy rain damaging my backyard trees?
Witt suggests property owners also keep a keen eye out for signs of fungal infections and fruiting bodies (mushroom-like growths) on trees throughout the year, but especially over fall and winter. These can indicate hidden rot or weak spots in otherwise healthy-looking trees.
“Trees have a nasty habit of looking healthy even when they're hollow or damaged within. Excessive leaning, sudden changes in position, and fungal growth are all warning signs that a tree might be compromised,” Witt explains. “If you’re concerned about the stability of trees on your property, it’s crucial to have them assessed promptly by an ISA certified arborist."
READ MORE: Ask an arborist: Should you remove snow from trees?
Property owners are advised to pay particular attention to trees and branches near or overhanging structures, as these pose the greatest risk to homes. Osprey Tree Services offers hourly rates, free quotes and emergency and storm services to help South Island residents prioritize branches and trees that pose the most significant risk. Request your free quote online today.
Osprey Tree Service is based in Victoria's West Shore and primarily serves southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, learn more at ospreytreeservice.ca. Call 250-474-7993 today or email info@ospreytreeservice.ca.
READ MORE from Osprey Tree Services and their ‘Ask an Arborist’ series:
Ask an Arborist: Why holly trees aren’t as ‘jolly’ as they appear
Ask an Arborist: How can I prepare my property for storm season?