Though most trees grow up and out, sometimes they can develop a lean. The unique shape and stature of the plant might give it a slight aesthetic value, but some tilts create serious safety hazards. So how far can a tree lean before it falls?
As Layton’s superior tree service specialists, our Clean Cuts Trees crew prioritizes the safety of community members and their property. As such, we understand leaning tree dangers and the risks they pose. Keep reading to learn more about tree lean limits and when to call the professionals for help.
Common Explanations for Tree Tilting
Since trees are plants that adapt to their environments, they sometimes grow at a slight angle instead of sprouting vertically. When a tree grows naturally with a tilt, it usually isn’t a danger to people or property. The problem comes from trees that start off with straight trunks but develop a tilt later due to an outside influence like a severe storm, high winds, or soil erosion.
What’s the Maximum Tree Lean Angle?
How far can a tree lean before it falls? The average tree stability threshold is about a 15% lean in any direction from its vertical growth.
When trees develop a steeper angle than that, it usually indicates a serious problem. Without immediate intervention from a professional tree care service, the tree could topple.
Why a Leaning Tree Is Dangerous
The last thing you want is a massive tree to fall in your yard. Strong or consistent winds could cause the tree to fall, leading to major property damage or injuries. In the worst-case scenario, you could be liable if you fail to remedy a leaning tree on your property and it falls, causing injury or damage to another person or their property.
Signs It’s Time to Remove a Tiltled Tree
Despite knowing how far a tree can tilt before it falls, a leaning tree could fall seemingly out of nowhere if you don’t know what to look for. Instead of ignoring the trees around your landscape, remember these warning signs of a tilted tree that needs immediate attention:
- A leaning angle greater than 15-degrees
- A tilt that worsens over time
- A sudden lean following a bad storm
- Exposed tree roots or cracked soil around the base of the tree
Your tree likely won’t grow straight after forming a lean but tree cabling can provide the necessary stability to minimize hazards.
Count on the Tree Care Experts in Layton for Professional Guidance
Now that you know the answer to “How far can a tree lean before it falls?” don’t wait to contact Clean Cuts Trees for reliable solutions for your tilted tree. As a full-service emergency tree care provider in Layton, Utah, our licensed, insured, and bonded arborists understand the importance of tree inclination safety. We can provide professional tree removal, storm cleanup, and emergency tree damage services at competitive rates.
If you want to learn more about tree tilt risks or have other questions like “Does cutting down trees increase property value?” we can help. Call (801) 473-7548 today for your free estimate.
