Most of the time, trees are a great asset to your property—they provide shade, beauty, and even boost your home’s curb appeal. But sometimes, a tree that once looked healthy can turn into a liability. At Big Foot Tree Service, we’ve seen how easily a neglected tree can cause serious damage if warning signs are ignored. So how do you know when it’s time to take a closer look? Here are some signs that your tree might be more dangerous than it looks.
A Lean That Wasn’t There Before
Trees don’t always grow perfectly straight, and that’s okay. But if a tree starts leaning suddenly or more than it used to, it could mean something’s wrong underground. Storms, saturated soil, and root issues can all cause a tree to shift, and once it starts leaning, the risk of it falling increases dramatically—especially if it’s near your house, driveway, or power lines.
Roots Poking Out of the Ground
Roots are supposed to be out of sight and underground. So, if you’re seeing large, exposed roots or signs that the ground is lifting around a tree’s base, that’s a red flag. This might be caused by erosion or shallow root systems, both of which can compromise the tree’s stability. And when roots can’t anchor the tree properly, a strong wind or heavy snow could be all it takes to bring it down.
Dead Limbs Hanging Overhead
A few bare branches in winter? Totally normal. But dead limbs in the spring or summer—when everything else is green and full—are worth paying attention to. Deadwood can fall at any time, especially during bad weather, and large limbs can cause major damage or injury. If you’re spotting brittle or hollow branches or limbs that aren’t leafing out, it’s time to act.
Cracks, Splits, and Missing Bark
A tree’s trunk should look solid and consistent. If you notice large cracks, deep splits, or missing chunks of bark, it could point to internal decay. These kinds of structural issues weaken the tree, making it more likely to break or collapse without warning. Bark that’s falling off or peeling in large strips can also be a sign of disease or stress.
Mushrooms and Fungi at the Base
Fungal growth, like mushrooms or conks, may look harmless, but they’re usually a sign of deeper trouble. These organisms thrive on rotting wood, which often means your tree has internal decay—something you might not see from the outside. If you notice mushrooms growing on or near the trunk, it’s worth having a professional look.
Recent Construction Nearby
If you’ve had any recent work done around your home—digging for a new patio, replacing a driveway, or trenching for utilities—it’s possible your tree’s root system was impacted. Damaged roots don’t always show immediate symptoms, but over time, the stress can lead to instability or decline in health. Even compacted soil can make it harder for roots to absorb nutrients and water.
When in Doubt, Bring in the Pros
It’s not always easy to tell when a tree is becoming a hazard, especially if the signs are subtle. That’s where we come in. At Big Foot Tree Service, we provide expert evaluations, safe tree removals, stump grinding, and emergency cleanup when nature catches you off guard. Whether it’s a small issue or a major concern, we’re here to help you make the right call for your safety and your property.
We’re proud to serve homeowners across Northern New Jersey and we take care of all the details—permits included. Plus, our estimates are always free.
If you suspect your tree might be more trouble than it’s worth, give Big Foot Tree Service a call at 973-885-8000. We’ll look, offer honest advice, and help you stay ahead of any risks. Your trees should be a blessing, not a burden—and we’re here to keep it that way.
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