Tag Archives: tree removal guide

When Nature Strikes: How to Deal with a Fallen Tree on Your Property

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Nature can be unpredictable. One minute, you’re enjoying the shade of a beautiful tree in your yard, and the next, it’s knocked over by a storm, causing potential damage to your property. Dealing with a fallen tree can be overwhelming, especially for homeowners unprepared for such an event.

This blog aims to guide you through the essentials of managing a fallen tree, from recognizing the signs to ensuring safety and preventing future incidents. By the end of this post, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of how to handle a fallen tree situation and protect your property effectively.

Call 317-348-0811 for Fallen Tree Removal in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-348-0811 for Fallen Tree Removal in Indianapolis Indiana

Common Signs of a Fallen Tree or a Tree That Might Fall Soon

Fallen trees are often obvious, but sometimes the signs might not be immediately clear. Look for branches resting on your roof or fence, roots lifted out of the ground, or noticeable tilting. These indicators suggest a tree has fallen or is about to fall, causing potential damage.

When inspecting your property for fallen trees, walk around the yard and check areas not easily visible from the house. Look for broken branches or tree trunks leaning against structures or other trees. Assess the risk level by examining the size and position of the fallen tree. If it’s a large tree close to your home or power lines, the risk is high, and immediate action is necessary.

Safety First

Your safety and that of your family is paramount. Upon discovering a fallen tree, keep everyone away from the area. Trees can be unstable after falling, and there is a risk of further movement or collapse. Call professionals immediately if the tree has fallen on a structure, such as your house or car.

Attempting to remove the tree yourself can be dangerous and cause more damage. If the tree has fallen on power lines, contact your utility company right away. Do not approach or try to move the tree, as downed power lines pose a severe electrocution risk.

Tree Removal Options

Several tree removal methods are available, ranging from DIY efforts to hiring professional services. For small trees that haven’t caused significant damage, you might opt for DIY removal. Equip yourself with the necessary tools and follow safety protocols.

Professional tree removal services are recommended for larger trees or those causing extensive damage. These experts have the equipment and expertise to safely and efficiently remove fallen trees. When choosing a removal method, consider the tree’s size, location, and the extent of the damage. Professional services might be costlier but ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

Legal and Insurance Considerations

Dealing with a fallen tree often involves legal and insurance matters. Check your homeowner’s insurance policy to understand what coverage is available for tree removal and property damage. Inform your insurance company immediately after discovering the fallen tree. They will guide you through the claims process and may require documentation of the damage.

Be aware of local ordinances regarding tree removal. Some areas require permits for removing large trees or those near property lines. Understanding these regulations will help you avoid legal complications.

Preventing Future Incidents

Preventing future tree falls involves regular tree maintenance and early detection of potential issues. Regularly inspect your trees for signs of disease, rot, or structural weakness. Hire a certified arborist to assess the health of your trees periodically. They can identify potential risks and recommend appropriate actions, such as pruning or removal. Maintain your trees by keeping them trimmed and healthy. Proper tree care reduces the risk of falling during storms or high winds.

Conclusion

Dealing with a fallen tree can be stressful, but understanding how to manage the situation can significantly ease the process. Remember to prioritize safety, consider professional help, and be aware of legal and insurance aspects. By taking proactive measures, you can prevent future incidents and ensure your property remains safe. If you’re dealing with a fallen tree and need immediate assistance, contact a professional tree removal service today to safeguard your home and loved ones.

Did a tree topple over in your yard or driveway? We can help with that. Contact Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 for licensed and insured tree removal in Indianapolis, Indiana. We serve residential and commercial customers all throughout the surrounding Indy areas.

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How to Dig Up a Small Tree

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There are many reasons why you want that small tree out of your yard. Perhaps it is in the way of a major backyard renovation project, like a new underground swimming pool or pergola. Or maybe you are installing new landscaping and the tree doesn’t quite fit the design you had in mind. Mostly, small trees have to be removed if they are simply not thriving properly. In this case, you might even be able to save the tree by transplanting it in an area with better soil and sunlight conditions.

Regardless of why you need to remove a small tree from your yard, the tools and steps you should take to do so are fairly the same. If you plan to transplant the tree, you want to take better care; however, if you are simply tossing the tree into a compost, all you have to do is follow the right steps for a hassle-free process.

Continue below to learn what you will need to get the job done, and how to get started.

Indianapolis Tree Removal Service
Indianapolis Tree Removal Service 317-348-0811

What You Need

Whether you are keeping the tree or tossing it, you will need access to water, preferably a garden hose, as well as a sharp spade or shovel, or both. If you are planning to move the tree to another spot on your property, you will also want to get some quality burlap and twine, as well as a tape measurer. You can use tarp in place of burlap if you have it on hand already. The water will mostly be used to wet the soil and make digging easier, but it will also be very necessary for saturating the root ball in order to protect it while it is exposed between planting. Keep these factors in mind when you are setting up your workstation.

Getting Started

QUICK NOTE: If you are not replanting the tree, you do not have to incorporate the instructions regarding burlap and twine, below.

Step One – On the day before you intend to dig out your tree, wet the soil around the base. This protects and prepares the tree roots, plus makes digging much easier. If you can place a garden hose for 20 minutes over the area until it is fully saturated. Do not to get the tree bark wet.

Step Two – The next day, calculate how far out you need to dig around the tree in order to keep the root ball intact. The general rule of thumb is, for every inch of tree trunk diameter, give the root ball 9 to 12 inches in diameter and at least 6 inches of depth.

Note: This step is not as important if you are not keeping the tree, nor doing any underground excavation work in which tree roots would be disruptive.

Step Three – Using your twine, carefully tie up the lower limbs of the tree just like you see when shopping for Christmas trees. This protects the branches and foliage from excess breakage. You can remove the ties once you replant the tree.

Step Four – Begin digging around your calculated diameter, and down to your calculated depth. You need your spade or shovel to be very sharp because you will have to make clean cuts to the outside roots in order to free the tree from the ground. Furthermore, cleaner cuts heal faster and acclimate better to new environments.

Step Five – Remove any excess soil in the way. Then wedge your shovel underneath the root ball and push the handle down to lift the tree out of the ground. You might have to cut some extra roots to fully free the tree.

Step Six – Place the tree, root ball first, on your burlap or tarp. Then wrap the material around the root ball. This protects the roots from drying out in between transplanting. Even if you are not keeping the tree, it helps to cover the root ball for easier cleanup.

Need Help Removing a Tree in Indianapolis?

Call Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 for fast and affordable Indianapolis tree removal service for your residential or commercial property. You may also request free estimates and advice, anytime! Whether you need a stump removed, or an entire lot cleared, we are the tree care professionals to trust for quality work at the right price.

Timberland Tree Care Indianapolis, Indiana
Timberland Tree Care 317-348-0811