If you’re like every other tree owner, you want to keep your tree on your property for as long as possible. Unfortunately, a lot can make that tree extremely hazardous and force your hand.
While scheduling the tree’s removal will safeguard your property, you’ll first need to know how to tell if a tree is dangerous. Read on as we share some of the main warning signs a tree needs to be removed and help you determine when to schedule the necessary tree services in East Alton, IL.

Common Signs a Tree Needs Removal
A time might come when a tree should be cut down for safety. Thankfully, you can look for a few signs to determine if that time has arrived.
Extensive Structural Damage
A healthy tree is strong enough to withstand a bit of physical damage. However, if the damage leaves the tree with large cracks in its trunk, multiple hanging branches, or a severe lean, the chances of recovery lessen considerably.
What’s more, such damage greatly compromises the tree’s stability, making it more vulnerable to falling during storms.
Extensive Deadwood
You might not need to schedule professional tree removal if your tree has a few dead branches. In such a case, pruning could help you save the tree.
This all changes, though, if the tree has large amounts of deadwood across its canopy. This sign often points to a severe decline in the tree’s health.
Severe Disease
When caught early, you can address most of the diseases that attack trees. Sadly, removal will be the best and only course of action if the disease is too advanced. In this case, the signs a tree needs to be removed will include:
- Widespread leaf discoloration
- Premature leaf drop
- Soft or hollow wood
- Peeling bark
Fungus
Inspect your tree’s base, checking it for fungi like mushrooms. Since fungi only grow on dead, decaying wood, their presence reveals telltale indicators of tree decay and instability.
Root Rot
This is one of the hardest signs to spot because you can’t see your tree’s roots. However, there are steps you can take to determine if your tree’s roots are rotting.
Start by inspecting your tree’s canopy to see if the leaves are sparse, yellowing, or wilting. You should also examine the bark near the tree’s base. If it is discolored, sunken, or spongy, there’s a high chance the tree has root rot.
Safeguard Your Property With Professional Tree Removal
The last thing any tree owner wants to do is schedule a tree’s removal. Unfortunately, this is the best decision to make when the situation calls for it.
At Riverbend Outdoor Services, we don’t just identify signs a tree needs to be removed. We also specialize in the removal of hazardous trees, using proven techniques and advanced equipment to complete the job safely and efficiently. We’ll even deal with the leftover stumps, allowing you to enjoy the advantages of stump grinding.
Call us at (618) 407-8733 for your free estimate.










