When Are Professional Tree Cabling Services Warranted in Kansas City?
Trees are magnificent living organisms that bring beauty and life to landscapes and boost curb appeal and property values. However, as they grow and age, they may encounter structural issues that threaten their long-term stability and health.
Structural issues are a particular concern during the winter when tree branches must endure hundreds or even thousands of additional weight from ice and snow. Not only does this create a tree safety issue, but it can also endanger property and pedestrians in the vicinity.
Professional tree cabling has proven to be an effective method for addressing structural issues and preventing irreparable damage. In this blog, we’ll explore the process of tree cabling and bracing and what common scenarios warrant this service.
What Is Professional Tree Cabling and Bracing?
Tree cabling and bracing is an arborist-approved supportive method of stabilizing trees with weak or compromised structural elements. Ideally, it should be performed in the late fall or early winter before the conditions turn snowy, icy, and windy.
The process consists of the installation of cables, braces, and rods to reinforce specific branches and potentially problematic areas of the tree. The goal is to reduce the risk of branch breakage, prevent further damage, and extend the tree’s overall lifespan.
What Situations Warrant Professional Tree Cabling?
Several factors can necessitate tree cabling and bracing, and homeowners can identify them themselves if they know what to look for. When evaluating your trees, be mindful of the following signs you need cabling or bracing.
- Structural weakness
- Damage or disease
- Tree safety concerns
- Multiple large stems
Trees with narrow angles between branches are prone to splitting and may require bracing to reinforce these weak points. Additionally, trees with long, heavy branches that extend outward from the trunk parallel to the ground are susceptible to breakage from wind, snow, and ice.
Trees affected by storms, invasive pests, or diseases are usually weak and prone to structural issues. Cabling and bracing can provide support while the tree is healing and prevent breakage.
Although the thought of a tree posing a safety risk to property and family members is an unpleasant one, some trees are so compromised that they can become uprooted or split right down the middle of their trunk. When thousands of pounds of tree branches come crashing down, it’s in everyone’s best interest to keep their distance. Tree safety concerns can be addressed through cabling and bracing or by getting tree removal services.
The Process of Tree Cabling and Bracing
Tree cabling and bracing should only be performed by trained professionals who use arborist-approved methods and equipment. Your tree care professional will complete the following steps:
Step #1 – Assessment: A tree care professional evaluates the tree’s health, structure, and the specific issues it faces. Using this information, they will determine which areas of the tree require support.
Step #2 – Cable and brace installation: The tree care professional uses steel cables, synthetic bands, or braided nylon rope to cable the tree. The cable type is dependent on the structural needs of the tree. Additionally, the tree care professional will install rigid braces directly into the tree’s weak points and fasten them using bolts.
Step #3 – Monitoring and maintenance: With the cabling and bracing system in place, the tree should have the support it needs to remain intact and endure winter weather conditions. However, homeowners should monitor their trees for areas where the cabling and bracing system have gone slack, come loose, or are missing their brace. Windy and snowy conditions will test the integrity of the tree cabling and bracing system. If the system malfunctions, homeowners should contact their tree care professional to remedy the situation rather than attempt to fix it themselves.
How to Get Tree Cabling Services
Tree cabling and bracing is an effective method of providing trees the additional structural support they need to endure winter weather conditions and prevent breakage. When done correctly, this technique helps ensure the continued strength, beauty, and longevity of your landscaping’s most valuable feature.
Tree cabling should only be performed by experienced professionals who have been properly trained and have the right equipment to perform it. The best way to secure professional tree cabling in your area is to call your local tree care service. Not every company performs tree cabling, so be sure to confirm they offer the service prior to making your assessment appointment.
After the tree care company has had a chance to evaluate your tree and its needs, they will provide an estimated price and timeline for the job. Price ranges vary, depending on the tree’s size, its condition, and the supplies and manpower needed.
