A Sun State Tree Service Inc. Blog

Strong storms can wreak havoc on your landscape, especially if you have trees that are already weakened or unstable. While healthy trees are built to withstand wind and rain, those with hidden structural problems or health issues may not hold up under pressure. When a tree topples, it can cause major property damage and serious safety hazards. Recognizing the warning signs early gives you the chance to call an arborist and take preventive action before a storm hits. At A Sun State Tree Service, our local arborists can identify and safely remove hazardous trees. Here are four signs that a tree may be at elevated risk of falling during a storm. A Worsening Lean A tree that’s leaning noticeably to one side may be signaling trouble. While some trees grow naturally at an angle, a sudden change in position or an increased tilt can mean the root system has been compromised. Shifting soil or exposed roots at the base are also signs of instability. During high winds, a leaning tree has a greater chance of uprooting completely, especially if the soil becomes saturated with rainwater. Root Damage or Decay Roots provide the anchor that keeps a tree stable. When they’re damaged or diseased, the tree loses its support system. Signs of root trouble include fungal growth around the base, cracked or lifting soil, or sections of dead roots visible above ground. Construction and changes in drainage can also weaken roots. A tree with compromised roots is especially vulnerable to toppling when wind and rain combine. Splits in the Trunk Visible cracks, deep splits, or cavities in the trunk are structural red flags. These weaknesses often develop due to internal decay, lightning strikes, or previous storm damage. A tree’s trunk must bear the weight of its canopy and resist wind forces, so any compromise in its integrity increases the chance of failure. If the damage runs deep, the tree may not survive another severe storm. Soil Heaving or Uplift If you notice the ground around the tree’s base lifting or cracking, it may mean the roots are pulling away from the soil. This often happens just before a tree falls, particularly after heavy rain. Tree Removal in Central Florida For tree removal in Sanford, FL and the surrounding area, contact A Sun State Tree Service at 407-530-3790 . Feel free to give us a call to request an arborist estimate in Central Florida!

Dead trees are more than just an eyesore in your yard. While they may seem harmless, they can actually create a variety of problems for your property and your safety if left standing. Many homeowners put off removing dead trees because they don’t appear to be an immediate issue, but the longer they remain, the greater the risks. At A Sun State Tree Service, we provide expert tree removal in the greater Sanford, FL area. Here are four important reasons to schedule prompt removal of dead trees. Prevent Safety Hazards Dead trees are structurally unstable and prone to falling, especially during storms or high winds. Large branches or the entire tree can come crashing down without warning, putting people, pets, and property at risk. By removing dead trees quickly, you protect your family and visitors from accidents that could otherwise lead to serious injuries. Protect Your Home and Property A dead tree near your house, garage, driveway, or power lines poses a constant threat. Even a relatively small branch can cause significant damage to a roof, vehicle, or utility infrastructure. Leaving a dead tree standing too long increases the chance of an expensive and avoidable disaster. Prompt removal helps ensure your home and property remain secure. Stop the Spread of Disease and Pests Dead trees often attract insects—such as termites, carpenter ants, and beetles—that can eventually move on to infest healthy trees or even your home. They may also harbor diseases and fungi that spread to surrounding plants and weaken your landscape. Removing a dead tree as soon as possible helps protect the rest of your yard from being compromised by pests or illness. Improve Curb Appeal A dead tree can make an otherwise beautiful yard look neglected. Whether you’re planning to sell your home or simply want to maintain a nice outdoor space, removing dead trees quickly makes a big difference in curb appeal. It also opens up opportunities for new landscaping, such as planting a healthy tree or installing a flower bed in its place. Tree Removal in Central Florida For tree removal in Sanford and the surrounding area, contact A Sun State Tree Service at 407-530-3790 . Feel free to give us a call to arrange an arborist estimate in Central Florida!

Mature trees can become serious hazards if they show signs of instability or decline. A large tree that is structurally compromised or growing too close to your home can present a danger to both people and property, especially during storms. Knowing the warning signs of a tree that may be an immediate threat allows you to take action before disaster strikes. At A Sun State Tree Service, our local arborists can identify and safely remove dangerous trees. Here are five signs that a big tree could be endangering your home. The Tree Is Leaning Toward the House A slight natural lean isn’t always a concern, but if a tree is suddenly leaning or appears to be shifting its posture toward your home, it could be unstable. A tree that has developed a significant lean, particularly after a storm or heavy winds, may have root or trunk damage that compromises its ability to remain upright. When the lean is directed toward your house, the risk of damage increases dramatically in the event of a collapse. Large, Dead Branches Over the Roof Big trees with dead or dying limbs hanging over your roofline are cause for concern. Dead branches can break off without warning, especially during high winds. If these limbs are large and situated directly above your home, they could cause significant roof damage. A professional arborist should inspect the tree to determine whether pruning or full removal is necessary. The Tree Has Splits in the Trunk Visible cracks or splits in a tree’s trunk are signs of serious internal stress. These structural issues can occur from disease, pests, or old storm damage that never healed properly. A compromised trunk may not be able to support the tree’s weight, especially during adverse weather conditions. If the damaged trunk is part of a tree that leans toward your home or sits close to the foundation, it may pose an urgent threat. Root Damage or Uplift Is Visible The health of a tree’s root system is key to its overall stability. If you notice raised soil or exposed roots, the root structure may be failing. Construction activity or soil erosion could contribute to root destabilization. A tree that has lost its anchoring ability is at high risk of toppling and should be professionally assessed immediately. Fungus or Rot Is Present at the Base Fungal growth or soft, decaying wood around the base of a large tree are warning signs of internal rot. Once decay sets in at the roots or lower trunk, the tree’s structural integrity may be significantly weakened. A rotting tree may appear stable on the outside but could fall with little provocation. Tree Removal in Central Florida For tree removal in Sanford, FL and the surrounding area, contact A Sun State Tree Service at 407-530-3790 . Feel free to give us a call to request an arborist estimate in Central Florida!

Tree pruning might seem like a simple task that you can handle with some simple hand tools and a ladder, but the truth is that proper pruning requires knowledge and experience. When done incorrectly, pruning can damage a tree’s health, compromise its structure, or even create safety hazards. That’s why it’s always best to hire a professional arborist when your trees need trimming. At A Sun State Tree Service, we provide expert tree pruning in the greater Sanford, FL area. Here are five important reasons to trust a professional arborist with your tree pruning needs. Promotes Long-Term Tree Health A professional arborist understands how to make strategic cuts that encourage healthy growth and prevent disease. Rather than hacking away at random branches, an arborist assesses the tree’s overall condition and removes only what’s necessary to improve airflow, sunlight penetration, and structural integrity. By avoiding over-pruning and protecting critical parts of the tree, an arborist helps ensure your trees thrive for years to come. Safe and Efficient Work Tree pruning can be dangerous, especially when large limbs, tall trees, or power lines are involved. Arborists are trained in safe climbing and cutting techniques and have the proper equipment to perform the job without injury or property damage. Hiring a professional minimizes the risks and helps ensure that pruning is completed efficiently and safely. Improves Aesthetic Appeal The way a tree is pruned has a big impact on its appearance and the overall look of your landscape. Arborists know how to shape trees to enhance their natural form while maintaining balance and proportion. Whether you're trying to open up a view or increase curb appeal, an arborist can prune your trees with precision and artistic vision. Prevents Future Problems Improper or neglected pruning can lead to problems such as weak branch structure, uneven growth, or increased susceptibility to pests and disease. Arborists prune with the future in mind, encouraging strong branch development and removing potentially hazardous limbs before they become a threat. Saves You Time and Hassle Tree pruning is time-consuming and physically demanding, especially if you lack the right tools or experience. By hiring a professional arborist, you save yourself the effort and avoid the stress of trying to figure out what to cut and how. You also gain peace of mind knowing that your trees are being cared for by someone who understands how to protect and preserve them. Professional Tree Pruning in Central Florida For tree pruning in Sanford, FL and the surrounding area, contact A Sun State Tree Service at 407-530-3790 . Feel free to give us a call today to arrange an arborist estimate in Central Florida!

At first glance, grinding a tree stump might seem like a straightforward DIY job, but if you live in Sanford, taking on this task yourself comes with more risk than you might expect. Find out the dangers and mishaps you need to watch out for when renting a stump grinder. When you need an unsightly stump professionally removed in Sanford, FL, or the surrounding areas, call A Sun State Tree . Equipment Can Be Dangerous Stump grinders are heavy, high-powered machines with sharp, fast-spinning blades. Without the right experience, controlling one can be tough. Accidental contact with the cutting wheel can lead to serious injuries, and improper use can also cause the grinder to kick back unexpectedly, putting you, nearby people, or property at risk. Underground Surprises In Sanford, utility lines and irrigation systems are often just below the surface. If you don’t call 811 to have underground lines marked before grinding, you could easily damage water pipes, cable lines, or even electrical conduits. That kind of mistake is costly and potentially dangerous. Inadequate Equipment for the Job Home-use or rental stump grinders may not be powerful enough to handle larger or older stumps, especially those with extensive root systems. You could spend hours grinding only to end up with a half-finished job, and possibly a broken machine. Flying Debris and Property Damage Stump grinding kicks up wood chips, rocks, and dirt at high speeds. Without proper safety gear and shielding, flying debris can injure eyes or damage windows, vehicles, or nearby landscaping. Lack of Proper Cleanup Besides grinding the stump, professionals also clean up the mess. DIYers often underestimate the amount of debris left behind and may not have the tools to remove it efficiently. Stump Grinding and Removal in Sanford, FL Whether we took the tree down or a stump is left from years before, count on us for fast stump removal in Sanford. Our stump grinding professionals use modern tools that ensure that unsightly stumps are eliminated, allowing you to reclaim your outdoor space. Whether you plan to replant or expand your landscape, our advanced equipment will efficiently grind and remove tree stumps, leaving your property ready for its next phase of use. We can remove the resulting wood chips or leave them for your use! Call A Sun State Tree at 407-530-3790 to learn more.

