How to Spot a Dangerous Tree Before It Falls

dead tree signs

When it comes to protecting your home, few things are as unpredictable – and dangerous – as a failing tree. In Houston, where heavy storms and hurricanes are part of life, spotting the warning signs early can mean the difference between peace of mind and thousands in property damage.

At Highpoint Tree Care, our team of ISA Certified Arborists has spent years helping Houston homeowners identify hidden risks before they become emergencies.

Here are the red flags our certified arborists recommend homeowners watch for:

Tree Warning Signs - A Checklist for Homeowners

Preventative Care From Certified Experts

Schedule Your Certified Arborist Tree Safety Inspections

Dangerous Tree Warning Signs: A Checklist for Homeowners

While only a professional inspection can confirm a tree’s condition, there are clear warning signs that should raise immediate concern:

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Cracks or Splits in the Trunk

Large fissures weaken structural integrity and often signal stress or internal decay.

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Leaning More Than Usual

A sudden lean, or one with soil pushing up around the roots, indicates a tree may uproot in strong winds.

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Dead or Falling Branches

Frequent limb drop is one of the clearest indicators of declining health.

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Fungal Growth at the Base

Mushrooms or bracket fungi often point to rot inside the trunk or root system.

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Overgrown or Unbalanced Canopy

A lopsided or too-heavy crown makes trees unstable, especially during storms.

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Hollow or Cavities in the Trunk

Voids reduce the tree’s ability to support its own weight.

Tip: If you see one or more of these warning signs, don’t ignore them – trees often give visual cues long before failure.

hurricane tree services - fast response

Certified Arborists for Emergency Tree Removal in Houston

When severe weather hits Houston, trees weakened by heavy winds, saturated soil, or extreme heat can quickly become a danger to your property and family. Our team of ISA Certified Arborists is trained to respond to these emergencies with the skill and precision needed to remove hazardous trees safely and efficiently.

Too often, the trees we’re called to remove after hurricanes or thunderstorms showed warning signs – cracks, leaning, or root damage – long before the storm. That’s why we not only provide 24/7 emergency tree removal when it counts, but also encourage regular inspections and preventative maintenance. By addressing risks early, homeowners can avoid costly damage, stay safe during storm season, and preserve the health and beauty of their landscape.

Suggested Read: Best Time to Trim or Cut Trees

Tree Trimming

Preventing Tree Damage During Houston Storms

At Highpoint Tree Care, we don’t just remove hazardous trees – we work with homeowners to maintain tree health and safety year-round.

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Tree Trimming Services

Strategic trimming to reduce weight, balance growth, and improve stability.

Suggested Read: Tree Trimming vs. Tree Thinning

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Emergency Tree Removal

Rapid response when safety can’t wait.

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Hire Routine inspections by ISA Certified Arborists

who use their training and field experience to evaluate risks accurately.

 

By trusting a certified team, you’re not only getting preventative care – you’re protecting your family and property with expert-backed guidance.

 

Highpoint Tree Care Services

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