Trees add beauty, shade, and value to your property—but when they become a threat, it’s time to act. A compromised or dying tree isn’t just an eyesore. It can cause costly property damage, personal injury, or worse. That’s why knowing when to call a hazardous tree removal service in Keene is critical for every homeowner and property manager.
If you’re not sure what to look for, this guide breaks down the top warning signs that a tree may be more dangerous than you think—and what you should do about it.
1. The Tree Is Leaning (And Not in a Good Way)
All trees lean a little. But when that lean is sudden, sharp, or getting worse over time, it’s a serious red flag.
What to watch for:
- A tree suddenly leaning more than 15 degrees
- Soil lifting or roots pulling away from the ground
- Cracks in the trunk or exposed roots
Why it matters: A leaning tree may be losing its structural stability. If it’s leaning toward your home, driveway, or a power line, it’s not a “maybe”—it’s time to call in the pros.
2. Dead or Falling Branches
If your tree is constantly shedding large limbs, it’s trying to tell you something. Dead or brittle branches are a key warning sign that the tree is stressed or dying.
Watch for:
- Large dead branches in the canopy
- Branches dropping even in calm weather
- Piles of limbs after a light wind or rainstorm
These limbs can fall without warning, putting your home, vehicles, and anyone nearby at risk. A qualified tree service can assess whether it’s a pruning issue—or if full removal is the safest option.
3. Visible Signs of Disease or Decay
You don’t need to be a tree expert to spot signs of trouble. Fungal growth, soft spots, or hollow areas are common indicators that your tree may be rotting from the inside out.
Common red flags:
- Mushrooms growing at the base of the tree
- Cavities or hollows in the trunk
- Bark peeling off or missing entirely
- Discolored or spotted leaves
While some of these issues can be treated if caught early, advanced decay usually means the tree’s internal structure is compromised—and that’s when hazardous tree removal service in Keene becomes necessary.
4. Storm Damage
New England weather can be brutal. After a heavy snowstorm, windstorm, or ice event, even healthy trees can become dangerous.
Post-storm signs of hazard:
- Cracks in the trunk or major limbs
- Split branches hanging on by a thread
- Trees leaning more than before
- Uprooted or partially uprooted trees
Never try to remove storm-damaged trees yourself. They can be unstable and unpredictable. Call a team like Wilcox Tree Service that’s equipped to handle emergency situations safely and quickly.
5. Trees Growing Too Close to Structures or Power Lines
Some trees were planted in the wrong place to begin with. Others just grew faster than expected. Either way, trees that are too close to your home, garage, fence, or power lines can become a ticking time bomb.
Potential dangers:
- Roots damaging foundations, sidewalks, or plumbing
- Branches scraping roofs, gutters, or siding
- Interference with overhead power lines
In many cases, trimming or directional pruning might solve the problem. But if the risk is high or the tree is already causing damage, removal is the safer, long-term solution.
6. Cracks or Splits in the Trunk
A healthy trunk is vital for a stable tree. Large cracks or vertical splits often indicate internal failure or previous damage.
Signs to watch:
- Deep cracks extending up the trunk
- Splits where large branches meet the trunk (called “co-dominant stems”)
- Sound of creaking or popping wood during windy weather
These trees may look fine from a distance but can fail suddenly, especially in storms. A professional assessment is key to avoiding catastrophe.
7. Root Issues
What’s going on underground is just as important as what’s above. If a tree’s roots are damaged, exposed, or decaying, the entire tree’s stability is at risk.
Root red flags:
- Soil heaving or mounding on one side
- Exposed, rotting, or cracked roots
- Fungus growing near the roots
Unfortunately, once a root system is severely compromised, there’s often no way to save the tree. That’s when it’s time to schedule a hazardous tree removal service in Keene before it falls unexpectedly.
8. Strange Sounds from the Tree
Trees shouldn’t creak like an old rocking chair. If your tree is making noise in the wind, it could be rubbing, splitting, or starting to fail structurally.
Listen for:
- Loud creaking or popping sounds in windy conditions
- Grinding noises where limbs or trunks meet
- Sudden cracks, especially after storms
Don’t ignore these auditory warning signs. A dangerous tree often gives you one last warning before it breaks.
Why Prompt Tree Removal Matters
Waiting too long to remove a hazardous tree can lead to:
- Property damage: Roofs, cars, fences, and more
- Power outages: If branches hit utility lines
- Injuries or fatalities: Falling limbs or entire trees
- Legal liability: Especially if the tree damages a neighbor’s property
Removing a tree may seem drastic, but it’s often the best move to protect your home and your peace of mind.
Why Keene Residents Trust Wilcox Tree Service
At Wilcox Tree Service, we’ve helped homeowners and property managers throughout Keene safely remove dangerous trees for years. We understand the risks—and we know how to handle them.
When you call us, you’re getting:
- A local team with years of experience
- The right tools and equipment for the job
- Fast, responsive service—especially after storms
- Clean, respectful work that leaves your yard better than we found it
We’re committed to doing the job safely, efficiently, and professionally—every single time.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve spotted any of these warning signs—or if you’re simply unsure whether your tree is safe—don’t wait. A tree that seems fine today can become a hazard overnight.
Call Wilcox Tree Service today to schedule an inspection or get a free estimate. We’ll assess the situation and help you determine whether hazardous tree removal service in Keene is the right next step.
Your safety is our priority. Let’s keep your property protected, beautiful, and worry-free.