What is Tree Cabling and Why Would You Need it?
So, what is tree cabling? Sometimes, even healthy trees have structural problems that can endanger them and make them unsafe. Installing support cables can eliminate the need to cut down these trees by strengthening and supporting the affected areas.
What is Tree Cabling and Bracing?
Tree cabling and bracing are arboricultural techniques used to support and protect trees at risk of failure due to structural weaknesses or damage. We see this most often after heavy storms and high winds. When storms are strong enough to bring down branches, the storm likely damaged other branches.
Cabling
This involves installing cables between tree branches to limit their movement and reduce the risk of breakage. Cables are high-strength, non-abrasive materials installed using hardware specifically designed for this.
Bracing
Braces support weak or split crotches in trees by providing additional structural support. One example is threaded steel rods inserted and secured with bolts and washers.
Tree teams commonly employ these techniques to lower the risk of tree failure, especially in urban areas where trees are near people, buildings, and other properties such as vehicles. When done correctly, tree cabling and bracing can extend the life of a tree and help maintain its natural beauty while ensuring the safety of its surroundings.
How Is Tree Cabling Done?
Inspection
A professional will assess the tree’s condition, identifying structural weaknesses or defects requiring cabling. They will determine the appropriate type and placement of cables based on the tree’s species, size, and specific needs.
Cable selection
The landscape expert will select the appropriate cables and braces for the job. Common types of cables used include steel cables and synthetic ropes.
Installation
A team will install the cables by attaching them securely branches or trunks. This is typically done using specialized hardware like cable clamps or tree anchors. The cables are strategically placed to provide support and reduce stress on weak areas.
Tensioning
Once the team has installed the cables, they will apply tension to ensure support without causing damage to the tree.
Regular inspection and maintenance
After installation, inspecting the cables and monitoring their effectiveness regularly is essential. Over time, the cabling may need adjustments or maintenance.
Will Tree Cabling Damage a Tree?
When performed correctly by a professional team, tree cabling shouldn’t damage trees. When done correctly, cabling can help prolong the life of a tree and preserve its natural structure.
My favorite tree is the Red Bud. I have a dozen in my yard. Several years ago, one of my mature trees had a crack where the trunk split into three branches. I tried to tie the middle branch but only made it worse. The tree survived, but I ended up losing one-third of it.
I learned the hard way that hiring a professional team with experience in tree cabling is crucial to ensure that the process is done correctly and doesn’t harm the tree. A tree team will have the knowledge and equipment (two things I didn’t have) to perform the cabling safely and effectively.
When Should You Consider Tree Cabling?
You should consider tree cabling when a tree has structural weaknesses or defects that could damage the treat or become a safety hazard.
Spitting trunks
If a tree has multiple trunks that are beginning to split apart, proper cabling, done soon enough, can support and prevent them from separating.
Weak branch unions
Trees with branches with weak attachments to the main trunk are at risk of breaking during storms or high winds. Cabling can help strengthen these unions and reduce the risk of failure.
Cracks
Cabling can stabilize trees with visible cracks in trunks or significant branches, securing the damaged areas to prevent further splitting.
Leaning trees
Cabling can help support and prevent a leaning tree from falling.
How Can We Help You?
Berger Hargis has a company philosophy of providing personal excellence for all our services. Our growth and success have been due entirely to our commitment to honest, excellent customer service. The company is built on the referral business we have received due to this philosophy. If we can answer any questions about tree cabling or trees in general, please don’t hesitate to Contact Us.
If you enjoyed this post, you might also appreciate What Are the Benefits of Planting Trees?
About the Author
Randy Clark is a speaker, coach, and author. He publishes a weekly blog at Randy Clark Leadership.com. Randy is passionate about social media, leadership development, and flower gardening. He’s a beer geek, and on weekends he can be found fronting the Rock & Roll band Under the Radar. He’s the proud father of two educators; he has four amazing grandchildren and a wife who dedicates her time to helping others. Randy is the author of the Amazon bestseller The New Manager’s Workbook, a crash course in effective management
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