Strong winds can put significant stress on trees, especially those that are already weakened by disease, structural problems, or root damage. While it’s impossible to predict exactly when a tree will fall, certain warning signs can indicate that a tree may be more vulnerable during a severe windstorm. Recognizing these signs can help you take action before a hazardous tree causes injuries or property damage. At Elevated Tree Care, we provide expert hazardous tree removal in the greater Pittsburgh, PA area. Here are four signs that a tree may be at an increased risk of crashing down in high winds. Leaning Significantly A noticeable lean can indicate that a tree has structural instability, particularly if the lean is new or has become more pronounced over time. A tree leaning toward a house, driveway, road, or other frequently used area can present an especially serious hazard. Strong winds can increase pressure on the tree and potentially cause it to fall. The Trunk Has Splits Large cracks, deep splits, or other significant damage in the trunk can weaken the tree's structure. These problems may become particularly concerning during high winds because the trunk must withstand considerable bending and twisting forces. Cracks should be evaluated by a professional, especially when they are large, spreading, or located where major branches attach to the trunk. The Roots Are Damaged or Exposed A healthy root system provides much of a tree's stability. Construction activity, soil erosion, severe weather, and physical damage can affect the roots and make it harder for the tree to remain firmly anchored. Exposed or damaged roots around the base of a tree can be a warning sign that it may be more susceptible to being blown over. Signs of Decay Decay can weaken the trunk, branches, or roots without always being immediately obvious from the outside. Mushrooms near the base, cavities, soft wood, peeling bark, and extensive dead areas may indicate underlying deterioration. A tree affected by significant decay may be less capable of withstanding strong winds, making professional evaluation especially important. Tree Removal in Pittsburgh, PA For expert tree removal in Pittsburgh and the surrounding area, contact Elevated Tree Care at  412.695.3545  . Feel free to give us a call to request an arborist estimate in greater Pittsburgh!

When a tree dies, it can quickly become a serious liability. Dead trees weaken over time as decay spreads through the trunk, branches, and root system, increasing the likelihood of failure. Waiting too long to remove a dead tree can result in property damage, safety hazards, and expensive emergency services. Being proactive about dead tree removal protects both your property and the people on it. At Elevated Tree Care, our local ISA-certified arborists can identify dead trees and safely remove them as necessary. Here are four important reasons to remove dead trees before they become a bigger problem. Improve Safety Around Your Property The most important reason to remove a dead tree is to reduce the risk of injury. Dead branches can snap without warning, and weakened trunks are more likely to fall during storms or periods of high wind. If the tree is located near your home, driveway, sidewalks, or patio, it poses an even greater hazard. Removing a dead tree before it fails is crucial for safety. Prevent Costly Property Damage A falling tree or large branch can cause extensive damage to roofs, vehicles, fences, sheds, utility lines, and landscaping. Even if the tree doesn't fall completely, dropping limbs can result in expensive repairs. Proactively removing a hazardous tree is often far less costly than dealing with the aftermath of a tree-related accident. Protect Healthy Trees and Landscaping Dead trees often become breeding grounds for insects such as termites and bark beetles. They may also harbor fungal diseases that can spread to nearby healthy trees and shrubs. Removing a dead tree helps prevent pests and disease from affecting the rest of your landscape. Enhance Curb Appeal A dead tree can make an otherwise attractive property look neglected. Bare limbs, peeling bark, and visible decay detract from your home's overall appearance and may even reduce its perceived value. Removing the tree improves your landscape's appearance and creates an opportunity to plant a healthy replacement tree or redesign the area with new landscaping features. Tree Removal in Pittsburgh, PA For expert tree removal in Pittsburgh and the surrounding area, contact Elevated Tree Care at  412.695.3545  . Feel free to give us a call to arrange an arborist estimate in greater Pittsburgh !

At Elevated Tree Care, our crew of local arborists strives to outperform our clients’ expectations by consistently providing top-quality tree services at fair prices. No matter the scope of the work, our ISA-certified arborists will work efficiently to get the job done right. And we appreciate it when our clients offer feedback. Here’s a look at some of our recent reviews. “Great service, great people and excellent work. They cleaned everything up, answered all my questions and I look forward to hiring them again.” —Amberly B. “Very professional work with great communications involving service dates and follow up procedures. All employees were easy to engage and pleasant to have at our home. Highly recommend this tree service to anyone looking for a fair price for tree removal by a professional team from contact till the completion of the job. 5 stars out of 5.” —Dan G. “Very happy with the service from start to finish. Communication in the office was clear and consistent, and the team in the field delivered excellent work. Everything was handled smoothly and professionally. Highly recommend and will definitely use again.” —Philip P. “Everyone was spectacular!! Wayne kept in touch with me throughout the process! The men were courteous and friendly and even played with my dog! Thank so much!!!” —Bernadette G. “Working with Elevated was seamless from the beginning of the process to the end—getting a quote, scheduling the appointment, and making payment. They showed up when they said they would and cleaned up behind themselves and I didn’t have to be there to tell them. Highly recommend.” —Danielle B. “We had a great experience with Elevated Tree Care. Scheduling was easy, and they came and took down the tree we needed removed, and left us mulch. They were efficient and easy to communicate with." —Josh S. Tree Care in Pittsburgh, PA When you need an experienced arborist in Pittsburgh and the surrounding area, contact Elevated Tree Care at  412.695.3545  . Feel free to give us a call to request an arborist estimate in greater Pittsburgh!

Learn 4 signs your tree may fall in high winds. Contact Elevated Tree Care for expert hazardous tree removal today!

Proper tree pruning is one of the most important parts of maintaining healthy, attractive, and safe trees. While some homeowners may consider pruning trees themselves or hiring a general landscaping company, tree care requires specialized knowledge and training. Improper pruning can weaken a tree and increase the risk of disease. An ISA-certified arborist has professional training in tree healthy, safety practices, and proper pruning techniques. At Elevated Tree Care, our local ISA-certified arborists provide expert tree pruning in the greater Pittsburgh area. Here’s a look at why it’s worth having certified arborists prune your trees. They Understand Proper Pruning Techniques ISA-certified arborists are trained to prune trees using industry-approved methods that support healthy growth and structural stability. They understand where and how to make pruning cuts without causing unnecessary stress or damage to the tree. Improper cuts can leave trees vulnerable to decay, pests, and disease, while over-pruning may weaken the canopy and reduce the tree’s ability to produce energy. Certified arborists know how to selectively remove branches in ways that improve airflow, encourage balanced growth, and maintain the tree’s natural shape. Identify Hidden Tree Problems During the pruning process, a certified arborist can often spot early signs of disease, pest infestations, decay, or structural weaknesses that may not be obvious to the average property owner. Cracked limbs, fungal growth, hollow sections, and dead branches can all indicate more serious problems within the tree. Identifying these issues early allows homeowners to take corrective action before the tree becomes hazardous or suffers irreversible damage. Improve Safety on Your Property Tree pruning can involve climbing, heavy equipment, and working near power lines. ISA-certified arborists are trained in proper safety procedures and use specialized equipment to safely handle difficult pruning situations. They know how to remove hazardous limbs without damaging surrounding property or creating unnecessary risks. In addition, professional pruning helps reduce the likelihood of falling branches during storms or high winds, which can help protect homes, vehicles, and people on the property. They Provide Expert Recommendations for Tree Care An ISA-certified arborist can provide valuable guidance beyond pruning alone. They can recommend maintenance schedules, evaluate soil conditions, identify species-specific concerns, and suggest treatments that support tree health. Professional recommendations help homeowners make informed decisions that protect the beauty and safety of their landscape. Working with a certified arborist ensures your trees receive knowledgeable care tailored to their specific needs. ISA-Certified Tree Pruning in Pittsburgh, PA For an ISA-certified arborist in Pittsburgh and the surrounding area, contact Elevated Tree Care at  412.695.3545  . Feel free to give us a call to arrange a tree services estimate in greater Pittsburgh, PA !