How to Spot a Hazardous Tree Before It Becomes a Problem
Trees are essential to our landscapes, offering shade, beauty, and environmental benefits such as improved air quality and stormwater management. But even the healthiest-looking tree can hide dangers beneath its bark. In Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, where harsh winters, strong prairie winds, and freeze-thaw cycles are common, tree damage can develop quietly and escalate quickly. At Cubs Tree Solutions, we believe early detection is key to preventing property damage, injury, or costly emergency removals. Knowing how to identify a hazardous tree before it becomes a major issue can save you stress and money and help protect your property and loved ones.
Cracks and Splits in the Trunk or Branches
One of the most noticeable signs of a hazardous tree is physical damage to the trunk or major limbs. Large vertical cracks, splits in the wood, or missing or peeling bark can indicate serious structural weaknesses or internal decay. These defects often compromise the tree's integrity, especially during windstorms or heavy snow loads, making them more likely to fall or break. Even smaller cracks can worsen over time if left unchecked. If you notice any of these symptoms, it's best to have a certified arborist in Saskatoon inspect the tree to assess its overall health and determine if removal or bracing is necessary.
Dead or Hanging Branches
Dead wood in a tree is not only unsightly—it can be deadly. Large dead or broken branches that are hanging or loosely attached are commonly known as "widowmakers" because of the unpredictable and sudden danger they pose. These limbs can drop without warning, especially in high winds or after a snowfall. They're particularly dangerous when located over driveways, sidewalks, or recreational areas. At Cubs Tree Solutions, we offer hazardous tree removal services that specifically address dead branches and high-risk limbs, ensuring your property remains safe year-round.
Leaning Trees or Uneven Growth
While some trees naturally lean slightly, a tree that begins leaning suddenly or appears to be shifting over time is a potential red flag. This may be a sign of root instability, soil erosion, or internal decay weakening the trunk. Leaning trees are especially concerning if they point toward structures, roads, or power lines. Changes in the angle of a tree should never be ignored, as they often indicate that the tree's anchoring system is failing. If you see a new or worsening lean, it's wise to consult a tree removal expert in Saskatoon who can evaluate whether the tree can be saved or should be safely removed before it falls.
Root Damage and Soil Heaving
The health of a tree's root system is vital to its structural stability. However, root issues are often out of sight and go unnoticed until they lead to visible signs like heaving soil, exposed roots, or fungal growth at the tree's base. Construction, trenching, and even lawn maintenance can unintentionally harm a tree's root network, weakening its support and increasing the risk of toppling. Soil that appears raised or cracked near the trunk could signal the tree is slowly uprooting. Regular assessments by a Saskatoon certified arborist can detect these hidden problems early and recommend preventative or corrective solutions.
Signs of Disease or Decay
Many hazardous trees begin as diseased or decaying specimens. Early indicators include discoloured or wilting leaves, fungal growth such as mushrooms on the trunk, oozing sap, and soft or spongy wood. These symptoms often point to internal rot or bacterial/fungal infections, which can hollow out a tree from the inside. Left untreated, these conditions can spread to other trees and reduce your landscape's overall safety and health. By catching these issues early, professional intervention—such as pruning, cabling, or tree removal—can help maintain a safe and healthy property while limiting the spread of disease.
Pest Infestations
Tree-damaging pests like the emerald ash borer, carpenter ants, and bark beetles are increasingly common in urban areas, and Saskatoon is no exception. Infested trees may show signs like thinning foliage, tiny holes in the bark, dead sections, or a sawdust-like substance at the tree's base. These pests often attack already stressed or weakened trees, accelerating their decline. Spring is an important time to look for signs of infestations as increased activity becomes more visible. A tree care expert can diagnose the severity of an infestation and determine if the tree can be saved—or if removal is necessary to protect other nearby vegetation.
Cubs Tree Solutions: Your Partner in Tree Safety and Health
At Cubs Tree Solutions, we understand the unique tree care challenges faced by Saskatoon homeowners and property managers. Our experienced team of certified arborists is trained to spot the early warning signs of hazardous trees and provide reliable, safe solutions that fit your needs. Whether you need a thorough tree risk assessment, large tree removal, or help dealing with fallen or dangerous limbs, we have the tools and knowledge to do the job right. Serving Saskatoon and surrounding areas, we're committed to protecting your property and our city's urban canopy. Contact Cubs Tree Solutions today to schedule a professional inspection or consultation—we're here to help you keep your landscape safe, healthy, and thriving.