When a tree dies, it can have profound effects on your yard and the local ecosystem. However, like most homeowners, you may be most worried about your safety. How long can a dead tree remain standing until it finally gives out?
Zazueta Tree Specialists is your one-stop shop for tree removal in Los Gatos, CA. Our arborists can help you identify dead trees and estimate how long they can stand. Here’s what you need to know about post-death tree care.
How Long Can It Stand?
Some dead trees stay standing for up to five years. The longer answer isn’t so cut and dry, though. A tree’s structural integrity relies on several environmental factors and traits.
Age
If the tree was older before death, its roots have likely curled deep into the soil. It may be able to stand for up to several years. Meanwhile, a young tree that hasn’t had as much time to grow will have a weaker grip on the ground.
Type
Some breeds, such as white oak, can live for 500 years. These trees form thick bark and core systems, keeping them upright even after death.
Northern red oak, however, can only live around half that long before dying. Trees like this have thinner, less durable bark, reducing their structural integrity after death.
Health
How long can a dead tree remain standing if it was in good health while it was still alive? A cleaner bill of health increases the chance a tree will have enough structural integrity to keep standing longer. A tree in poor health may crack and fall over faster.
Climate
What’s the weather like in your area? Frequent thunderstorms or floods can weaken a dead tree’s grip, causing it to fall over faster. However, areas with clear skies may not have to worry as much.
Can a dead tree remain standing in Los Gatos’ climate? This area typically has cool, dry summers with lots of rain around winter. Given the higher rainfall, Los Gatos residents and property owners should be alert.
Each tree faces different conditions. Talk to an arborist and get a more precise risk assessment of your tree.
Signs To Call “Timber” in Los Gatos
Trees don’t show the same signs of being dead as mammals and other living creatures. What should you look for when trying to identify a dead tree?
- Missing bark: A tree’s bark functions like the top layer of our skin. It protects the tree from insect infestations and supports its weight. If you see a tree with lots of missing bark, it could be getting ready to topple over.
- Trunk damage: Missing bark is but one aspect of trunk damage you may find. Trees with cracks, splits, or open cavities cannot support themselves properly. Our certified arborists can also assess the progression of internal decay to determine a tree’s lifespan.
- Falling branches: Healthy trees may shed a few branches on occasion. However, a tree with many of them lying around could indicate a deeper issue that requires professional attention.
Zazueta Tree Specialists provides preventative measures, such as testing and monitoring, to ensure your yard stays a safe space. If you need help identifying dead trees, contact our arborists immediately.
Risks of Leaving Dead Trees Alone
Let’s say funds are tight for the moment, and you’re worried about the cost of hiring a contractor. How long can a dead tree remain standing if you give it some more time before addressing it?
We would caution you to avoid this mindset.
Dead trees, which fall peacefully in rural and forested areas, can cause significant damage in your neighborhood. One big crack and collapse could leave you with a tree trunk smashed into your car. It can also fall on pedestrians, nearby homes, or powerlines.
The law may hold property owners liable for damage or injuries caused by falling branches or trees. You could face legal repercussions if it harms or damages you, someone else, or someone’s property.
Expert Tree Removal for Easy Living
How long can a dead tree remain standing without help? While it can be difficult to say for certain, you don’t want to gamble with your time, money, or health.
Our team at Zazueta Tree Specialists makes removing dead trees easy. We know the best time for tree removal, how to identify tree illnesses, and how to keep the rest of your yard healthy.
If you’re worried about tree stability in your yard, call (408) 603-3577 for expert tree services in Los Gatos, CA!
