Pete & Ron’s Tree Service Blog

Trees can greatly enhance your property’s appearance and value, but when a tree becomes unstable or unhealthy, it can pose a serious risk to your home. Falling limbs, uprooted trunks, and hidden decay can lead to costly property damage or even injury if left unaddressed. Knowing when a tree is becoming a hazard allows you to act before problems escalate. An ISA-certified arborist has the expertise to evaluate tree health, identify risks, and recommend the safest course of action. At Pete & Ron’s Tree Service, our local ISA-certified arborists can identify and safely remove hazardous trees as needed. Here are four warning signs that a tree may be threatening your home. The Tree Is Leaning Toward Your House A tree that leans noticeably toward your home should never be ignored, especially if the lean has developed suddenly. Shifting soil, storm damage, or root decay can cause a tree to lose its stability. Even a gradual lean can indicate long-term structural problems below ground. An ISA-certified arborist can assess whether the tree can be stabilized or if removal is necessary to protect your home. Cracks Are Visible in the Trunk Deep cracks in the trunk or major limbs are signs of structural weakness. These issues often result from internal decay, lightning strikes, or extreme weather. When a trunk is compromised, the tree is more likely to fail without warning. A certified arborist can evaluate the severity of the damage and recommend appropriate corrective measures. Roots Are Lifting Soil or Damaging Structures Exposed or damaged roots, soil heaving at the base of the tree, or roots pushing against your foundation, driveway, or walkways are red flags. Root problems reduce a tree’s ability to anchor itself securely and can lead to sudden uprooting. An arborist can assess root health and determine whether the tree poses an increasing threat to your home. The Tree Shows Signs of Disease or Decay Fungal growth, hollow sections, and significant dieback in the canopy can indicate advanced disease or internal rot. These issues can potentially weaken the tree from the inside out, making it appear more stable than it actually is. An ISA-certified arborist is trained to spot subtle signs of decay and can help you decide on treatment, pruning, or removal before the tree becomes a more serious hazard. ISA-Certified Arborist in Tampa, FL For tree removal in Tampa and the surrounding area, contact Pete & Ron’s Tree Service. Feel free to request a free estimate for tree services in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and the surrounding area!

A dying tree is more than just an eyesore—it can be a serious threat to your property and safety. When a tree loses its structural integrity, it becomes far more likely to fall during storms or even on calm days. Homeowners often overlook early indications of decline, but taking action before a tree collapses can prevent costly damage and potential injuries. At Pete & Ron’s Tree Service, we provide expert tree removal in the greater Tampa, FL area. Here are four warning signs that a tree may be dying and should be removed to avoid becoming a dangerous hazard. Large Sections of Dead or Falling Branches Oftentimes, one of the earliest symptoms of a dying tree is the presence of dead, brittle limbs. If branches snap easily, have no leaves during the growing season, or fall frequently, the tree is likely struggling internally. Dead branches weaken the tree’s overall structure and can fall without warning, especially during storms. When much of the canopy is dead, it’s a strong indication that the tree may not recover and should be evaluated for removal. Trunk Damage, Splits, or Cavities The trunk is the core support system of the tree, and any severe damage can compromise its stability. Deep cracks, large holes, peeling bark, and areas of missing wood are all red flags. Cavities caused by decay or pests weaken the tree from the inside, making it unable to support its own weight. If the trunk shows extensive decay, the tree may be at risk of falling very soon and should be removed promptly. Fungal Growth at the Base Fungi can be a significant sign of internal decay. Fungal growth at the base of a tree often means that the root system or lower trunk is rotting. Once decay has spread to the roots, the tree loses its anchoring strength and can topple suddenly—even in mild weather. Persistent or widespread fungal growth can signal a serious health issue that should be assessed by a professional. Leaning or Shifting Position A tree that suddenly starts leaning or shows signs of shifting soil around its base may be in the process of uprooting. This is especially dangerous after storms, flooding, or high winds. While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a new or worsening lean usually indicates root weakness or failure. A leaning tree poses an immediate hazard and should be inspected and likely removed. Tree Removal in Tampa, FL For tree removal in Tampa and the surrounding area, contact Pete & Ron’s Tree Service. Feel free to request a free estimate for tree services in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and the surrounding area!

Tree removal might seem like a simple weekend project, but in reality, it’s one of the most dangerous tasks a property owner can attempt without proper training. Cutting down a tree safely requires professional expertise, specialized tools, and extensive experience. Experienced arborists are trained to handle removals efficiently and safely, protecting both people and property. At Pete & Ron’s Tree Service, we provide expert tree removal in the greater Tampa, FL area. Here are four important reasons why tree removal should be handled by arborists. Professional Knowledge and Assessment Skills Arborists are trained to understand tree structure and stability. Before removing a tree, they evaluate its condition, lean, weight distribution, and proximity to nearby structures or power lines. This knowledge allows them to plan a safe removal strategy that minimizes risk. Without this professional assessment, a homeowner could misjudge the tree’s fall direction or internal decay, leading to severe damage or injury. Arborists take every precaution to ensure the process is carried out with precision and safety in mind. Proper Equipment and Safety Gear Tree removal requires more than just a standard chainsaw—it demands ropes, harnesses, rigging systems, and sometimes other heavy equipment to control the direction and pace of a falling tree. Experienced arborists have access to this specialized equipment and know how to use it effectively. They also wear protective gear to guard against falling debris. Attempting to remove a large tree without this equipment can result in severe injuries. Professionals are trained to operate safely in challenging conditions that would be risky for untrained individuals. Protection for Your Property Removing a tree in a residential area is rarely straightforward. Branches can extend over rooftops, driveways, and power lines. Without careful planning, a falling limb or trunk section could cause thousands of dollars in damage. Arborists use controlled cutting and lowering techniques to remove trees piece by piece when necessary, preventing harm to surrounding structures and landscaping. Thorough Cleanup and Disposal Tree removal doesn’t end when the trunk hits the ground. Large amounts of debris, branches, and wood remain, requiring proper disposal. Arborists handle cleanup quickly and can grind the stump and haul away debris. This saves you time, effort, and the hassle of dealing with heavy materials. Tree Removal in Tampa, FL For expert tree removal in Tampa and the surrounding area, contact Pete & Ron’s Tree Service. Feel free to request a free estimate for tree services in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and the surrounding area!

When tall trees become unstable, they can quickly turn into serious safety hazards. A falling tree can cause significant damage to homes, vehicles, and power lines—and even put lives at risk. While healthy trees are generally stable, certain signs indicate that a tree may be at risk of suddenly toppling. At Pete & Ron’s Tree Service, we provide expert hazardous tree identification and removal in the greater Tampa, FL area. Being aware of these warning signs allows you to act quickly and call a professional arborist before disaster strikes. Leaning or Shifting Position A tree that has started leaning suddenly or has increased its tilt over time may be in danger of falling. While some trees do grow at an angle, a new or worsening lean often points to instability in the roots or soil. You might also notice cracks in the ground near the base or exposed roots on one side, suggesting that the tree’s foundation is compromised. These are strong indicators that the tree could topple in strong winds. Cracked Trunk The trunk serves as the main support structure for a tree. When it develops large cracks, cavities, or splits, the tree’s stability is severely weakened. A split trunk often results from storm damage, lightning strikes, or internal decay. Once a tree’s core is compromised, it can fail suddenly under its own weight. If you see deep fissures or hollow areas in a large tree’s trunk, it’s important to have it inspected right away. Damaged or Decaying Roots Roots anchor a tree and absorb vital nutrients. When they become diseased, decayed, or damaged, the entire tree can become unstable. Signs of root problems include fungus or mushrooms growing around the base, heaving soil, or visible rot. Because much of the root system is underground, damage often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. If you suspect root issues, an experienced arborist can assess the extent of decay and determine whether removal is necessary. Fungal Growth and Internal Decay The presence of fungi on the trunk or base is a warning sign of internal rot. Even if the tree appears relatively healthy from the outside, decay inside the wood can destroy its strength. A hollowing or spongy trunk means the tree may no longer be able to support its own weight. Tree Removal in Tampa, FL For tree removal in Tampa and the surrounding area, contact Pete & Ron’s Tree Service . Feel free to task for a free estimate for tree services in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and the surrounding area!

At first, dead trees on your property may not seem like a problem, but they can quickly become serious safety and financial liabilities. While it might be tempting to leave them alone or attempt removal on your own, the risks far outweigh the benefits. Professional tree removal ensures that hazards are addressed properly. At Pete & Ron’s Tree Service, we provide expert tree removal in the greater Tampa, FL area. Here are five important reasons why dead trees should be removed by a professional as soon as possible. Prevent Safety Hazards Dead trees lose their structural integrity over time, which makes them prone to breaking or falling, especially during high winds. Large branches can snap without warning, putting nearby people at risk. Professional removal eliminates this danger before an accident happens. Experts have the training and equipment to safely take down a tree without endangering anyone nearby. Avoid Property Damage A dead tree close to your home, garage, fence, or utility lines can cause costly damage if it topples. Even a smaller tree can cause major destruction if it falls in the wrong direction. Professionals carefully plan the removal process, ensuring the tree comes down safely and without harm to your property. This preventive step can save you thousands of dollars in potential repairs. Prevent Pest Infestations Dead trees are magnets for pests like termites, carpenter ants, and beetles. Once these insects take up residence in a dead tree, they often spread to healthy trees or even move into your home. Professional removal eliminates this breeding ground. Improve Your Landscape’s Health and Appearance A dead tree detracts from the overall look of your yard, making it appear poorly maintained. It can also hinder the growth of surrounding plants by taking up space and blocking light. Removing the tree not only improves curb appeal, but also helps create a healthier environment for the rest of your landscape to thrive. Ensure Safe and Proper Removal Tree removal is a complex and potentially dangerous task that should not be attempted without the right equipment and expertise. Professional arborists understand how to handle dead trees of all sizes, using proper techniques to prevent accidents. Hiring a professional is the best way for the removal to be done safely, efficiently, and in compliance with local regulations. Tree Removal in Tampa, FL For tree removal in Tampa and the surrounding area, contact Pete & Ron’s Tree Service. Feel free to request a free estimate for tree services in Tampa, St. Petersburg, and the surrounding area!