Elevated Tree Care Blog
Why Storm-Damaged Trees Should Be Inspected by an ISA-Certified Arborist
Elevated Tree Care • 22 December 2025
Severe storms can leave trees on your property damaged, unstable, and unsafe. High winds, heavy rain, and lightning can cause cracks, split trunks, broken limbs, and weakened root systems that aren’t always obvious at first glance. While some damage may seem minor, hidden structural issues can pose serious risks if left unaddressed. Having an ISA-certified arborist inspect storm-damaged trees is a smart step you can take to protect your property and everyone on it. Here are four important reasons why a professional inspection is worth it.
Identify Hidden Structural Damage
Storm damage isn’t always visible from the ground. Trees may suffer internal cracks, compromised branch unions, or root plate damage that can’t be seen without trained evaluation. An ISA-certified arborist has the knowledge and tools to detect these hidden problems and assess how they affect the tree’s overall stability. Identifying structural damage early helps prevent unexpected limb or tree failure later.
Reduce Safety Risks
Storm-damaged trees can become serious safety hazards. Hanging limbs, weakened trunks, or shifted root systems can fail suddenly, posing a danger to people, vehicles, and nearby structures. An arborist can determine which trees or branches present an immediate risk and recommend appropriate action. Addressing these risks promptly helps reduce the chance of injury or property damage.
Determine Whether a Tree Can Be Saved
Not all storm-damaged trees need to be removed. In many cases, proper pruning, cabling, or other corrective measures can restore a tree’s health and stability. An ISA-certified arborist can evaluate the extent of the damage and determine whether the tree can safely recover. This expert guidance helps you preserve healthy trees while avoiding unnecessary removals.
Protect Your Property Investment
Trees are valuable assets that enhance curb appeal and property value. However, damaged trees that are left uninspected can threaten homes, fences, power lines, and landscaping. An ISA-certified arborist provides professional recommendations that balance tree preservation with property protection. Their expertise helps you make informed decisions that safeguard both your trees and your investment in your property.
ISA-Certified Arborist 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 request an arborist estimate in greater Pittsburgh!
When a large tree starts showing signs of instability or decline, it can pose a serious threat to your home. Falling branches or a toppled tree can cause extensive roof or siding damage, not to mention serious safety risks for anyone nearby. Recognizing the warning signs early can help you prevent disaster and protect your home. At Elevated Tree Care, we provide expert hazardous tree removal in the greater Pittsburgh, PA area. Here are five signs that a big tree may be putting your house in danger. Leaning or Shifting Trunk One of the most obvious warning signs of a hazardous tree is a trunk that leans or has recently begun to tilt more than usual. A leaning tree may indicate that the root system is failing or that the soil beneath it has become unstable, especially after heavy rains or high winds. If the lean is new or continues to worsen, it’s time to have an arborist evaluate the tree’s stability before it falls. Splits in the Trunk Deep cracks, cavities, or vertical splits in the trunk can seriously weaken a tree’s structural integrity. These openings often develop from storm damage, disease, or internal decay. A compromised trunk can make a tree more likely to collapse, particularly during strong winds. Root Damage or Uplifted Soil A tree’s root system provides the foundation that keeps it upright. When roots are damaged—by construction, soil erosion, or fungal infection—the tree loses critical stability. Watch for signs like exposed roots or soil that appears raised or cracked around the base. Uplifted soil on one side of the tree can be a red flag that the tree is starting to pull out of the ground. Dead or Hanging Branches Large dead branches, especially those hanging over your roof or driveway, are a serious safety concern. Deadwood becomes brittle and can easily break off during storms or even on calm days. Regularly inspecting your tree’s canopy and removing hazardous limbs can help prevent property damage and injuries. Signs of Disease or Decay Fungal growth, hollow sections, or discolored leaves can indicate that a tree is suffering from internal decay or disease. A weakened tree is far more likely to fail under stress. Early diagnosis by an arborist can determine whether treatment or removal is the better option. Tree Removal in Pittsburgh, PA When you need tree removal in Pittsburgh and the surrounding area, contact Elevated Tree Care at 412.695.3545 . Feel free to give us a call to ask for an arborist estimate in Pittsburgh!
Tree removal may look straightforward, but it’s one of the most dangerous property maintenance tasks a person can undertake. Between heavy limbs, sharp tools, and unpredictable falls, it only takes one mistake for serious damage or injury to occur. That’s why hiring a certified arborist is always the safer and smarter choice. At Elevated Tree Care, our local ISA-certified arborists provide expert tree removal in the greater Pittsburgh, PA area. Here are five reasons to trust a certified arborist instead of attempting tree removal on your own. Proper Equipment and Training Tree removal commonly requires a variety of specialized tools—such as certain types of chainsaws, rigging ropes, climbing harnesses, and heavy equipment. Certified arborists know how to use such equipment correctly and safely. They are trained to evaluate the condition of the tree, choose the best cutting techniques, and prevent accidents. Attempting to remove a large or decayed tree without professional tools and knowledge can lead to disaster. Safety Is Always the Top Priority Tree removal involves numerous hazards, from falling branches to unstable trunks and power line interference. Arborists follow strict safety protocols to minimize these risks. They know how to secure the work area, control the direction of a tree’s fall, and handle high-risk situations such as trees located near homes or fences. Homeowners attempting DIY removal are prone to underestimating these dangers, leading to serious accidents. They Can Evaluate Tree Health and Stability Not every tree that looks dead or diseased actually needs to be removed, and not every healthy-looking tree is structurally sound. Certified arborists are trained to assess a tree’s health and stability before taking any action. They can determine whether a tree poses a safety risk, can be saved through pruning, or truly needs to come down. This expertise helps prevent unnecessary removals and ensures that decisions are based on professional knowledge rather than guesswork. Protection of Your Property During Removal Improper tree removal can easily cause damage to nearby structures, landscaping, or vehicles. Arborists use strategic cutting and lowering techniques to safely guide large limbs and trunks to the ground without harming surrounding areas. Thorough Cleanup and Disposal Tree removal doesn’t end when the trunk hits the ground. Certified arborists complete the job by safely removing debris and disposing of wood in compliance with local regulations. This saves you time, effort, and the hassle of cleanup. Tree Removal in Pittsburgh, PA When you need 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 Pittsburgh!
When a large tree becomes unstable, it can pose a serious safety hazard. A tree at risk of falling can damage homes, vehicles, and power lines, and even endanger people nearby. Identifying the warning signs early allows you to take preventive action before disaster strikes. 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. Noticeable Leaning A tree that is leaning more than usual or suddenly begins to tilt is a major red flag. While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a new or worsening lean can signal root instability or structural weakness. A tree leaning toward your home, driveway, or another structure should be evaluated by an arborist as soon as possible. Cracks in the Trunk Deep cracks or splits in the trunk often indicate severe structural problems. These fissures can weaken the tree’s core, making it more likely to snap under high winds. Cracked trunks are especially concerning if combined with other signs of decay or instability, as they often mean the tree no longer has the strength to stand tall. Damaged or Decaying Roots Roots are the foundation of a tree, and when they are compromised, the entire tree becomes unstable. Signs of root problems include visible decay, fungus growth at the base, or soil heaving around the tree. Because root damage is often hidden underground, even subtle signs should be taken seriously and inspected by a professional. Hollow or Decayed Areas A hollow trunk or large areas of decay reduce a tree’s structural integrity. While some trees can live for years with small hollow spots, significant internal decay often goes unnoticed until the tree becomes too weak to support itself. Visible cavities, soft wood, or signs of rot should never be ignored, as they may mean the tree is close to failing. Tree Removal in Pittsburgh, PA When you need 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 Pittsburgh!
Dead trees may seem harmless, especially if they’ve been standing for years without issue, but they can pose serious risks to your safety, property, and landscape health. Taking action as soon as a tree dies helps ensure you maintain a safe and attractive outdoor environment. At Elevated Tree Care, our local ISA-certified arborists can identify dead trees and safely remove them as necessary. Here are four reasons to schedule prompt removal of dead trees. Prevent Property Damage Dead trees lose structural integrity over time, making them much more likely to drop heavy branches or topple entirely during strong winds or storms. If they’re located near your home, garage, fence, or power lines, the risk of expensive property damage is high. Prompt removal eliminates this hazard before it has the chance to cause costly destruction. Protect People from Injury Falling limbs from a dead tree aren’t just dangerous to structures—they can injure anyone walking, playing, or working nearby. Large branches can drop without warning, especially when there are strong winds. By removing the tree quickly, you eliminate a lurking danger that could cause serious harm to loved ones or visitors. Stop the Spread of Pests and Disease Dead trees often attract insects such as termites, carpenter ants, and beetles, which can spread to other healthy trees or even make their way to your home. Also, tree diseases can linger in dead wood and infect nearby vegetation. Removing the tree early helps protect the rest of your yard’s ecosystem from infestations and illnesses. Maintain Curb Appeal A dead tree can be an eyesore, reducing your property’s visual appeal and potentially its value. Instead of being a feature that enhances your landscaping, as the tree further decays, it becomes a sign of neglect. Quick removal allows you to replace it with fresh greenery or open up space for other attractive 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 request an arborist estimate in greater Pittsburgh!
Our team at Elevated Tree Care strives to exceed our customers’ expectations by consistently doing top-quality tree work at fair prices. No matter how big or small the job, our local ISA-certified arborists will work meticulously to complete it to the highest standards. And we appreciate it when our customers offer feedback about the work that we did for them. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “Matt and Ian did a great job clearing out a huge limb and getting the dead branches off a huge tree in my yard. Matt made sure I was happy with the work before they put all their tools away, and then they did a great job with cleanup! Highly recommend these guys!” — Karen C. “Elevated Tree Care did an excellent job pruning back the branches of an enormous tree that presented a threat to the front of my house. The guys also removed a gigantic bush from my backyard that had been a nuisance and an eye sore for decades.The crew worked quickly and efficiently and got the job done in record time. Whenever I need more tree work done, I’m calling these guys.” — Tony N. “First time home owner, first time tree pruning need. I am so happy to have had this experience with Elevated Tree Care, the sycamore in front of my house looks so much better and branches are no longer touching the house. I actually have sunshine in my backyard too now that they've cleaned up the maples. Excellent team, easy scheduling, timely and helpful communication. Would choose them again in the future!” — Ashley M. “Great response time, excellent quote. Safe and quick tree removal services. Very happy with work. Definitely will use them again in the future.” — Cassie G. “Crew was very competent, hardworking and skilled. They were respectful of adjoining properties and residential roadway clean up.” —Joanne A. 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 ask for an arborist estimate in Pittsburgh!
When disease strikes, the affected tree can quickly become a safety hazard or die off entirely. Tree diseases are often subtle at first, and many property owners don’t realize something is wrong until the damage is advanced. By recognizing early warning signs and consulting a certified arborist, you can often save the tree or safely remove it before it causes problems. At Elevated Tree Care, our local ISA-certified arborists can identify diseased trees, and then determine the appropriate course of action for addressing the issue. Here are five general signs of tree disease that warrant professional attention. Discolored or Misshapen Leaves Leaves are often one of the first places where disease symptoms show up. If your tree’s leaves are turning yellow or brown out of season, wilting, or developing spots or unusual patterns, it could indicate a fungal or other type of infection. A certified arborist can diagnose the issue and recommend treatments to help restore your tree’s health or prevent the disease from spreading to other trees. Dead/Dying Branches While the occasional dead branch is normal, a pattern of dieback is a serious red flag. This could be a sign of root rot, vascular disease, or pest infestation. Dead branches are not only a sign of poor tree health but also pose a risk of falling. An arborist can determine if selective pruning or removal is needed to protect your property. Cracks/Cankers on the Trunk Visible damage to a tree’s trunk, such as deep cracks or sunken areas called cankers, is often a sign of disease. Cankers can be caused by fungal infections. These areas can compromise the structural integrity of the tree and make it more susceptible to falling during storms. An arborist inspection will help determine the extent of the damage and the best course of action. Fungal Growth at the Base Fungi growing at the base of a tree are a strong indication of internal decay. While the exterior of the tree may still look healthy, the presence of fungi often means that rot has taken hold inside. This internal damage can weaken the tree significantly and make it prone to collapse. A certified arborist can assess the structure and decide if the tree can be treated or should be removed. Sudden Thinning of the Canopy If your tree’s foliage appears sparse or thin compared to previous seasons, it may be battling a disease that affects its ability to transport water and nutrients. This symptom can be linked to root problems, nutrient deficiencies, or systemic infections. Prompt diagnosis by an arborist can help uncover the cause and give your tree a better chance of recovery. Tree Care in Pittsburgh, PA When you need tree care 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 Pittsburgh!
