What is Tree Cabling and When is It Necessary?

Trees with poor structural integrity can pose a safety hazard in places where people live or walk, so it’s imperative to do everything you can to prevent accidents from happening.

Cabling and trimming are two of the many tree preservation techniques that arborists perform. When used together, cabling and trimming can prevent tree limbs from failing.

But what exactly is tree cabling? You’re in the right place to find out. Keep reading as we give you all you need to know.

What Is Tree Cabling?

Well-trained arborists can identify trees that are in danger of falling on structures or passersby, and they can install cables to shore them up.

These cables provide support that prevents the tree from splitting apart. It’s a preventive measure that reduces the risk to people and property.

The cabling process is non-invasive, and the cables themselves are barely visible once installed.

When Is Tree Cabling Necessary?

Here are some common scenarios where you might consider having this service performed:

• Your tree has a codominant stem, or weak junction often referred to as a “V-crotch” due to its narrow-angle of attachment
• Your tree has long, heavy, or over-extended branches prone to breakage during high winds and snow
• You have small children or pets who play under your trees
• Your property includes walkways frequented by pedestrians who would be endangered if a branch fell

If you’re looking for arborist services in Connecticut because you’re aware of trees that tick a few of these boxes, get an estimate from us today.

Cabling and Trimming Work Together

Tree cabling and trimming can be used together, particularly in large trees that need additional support. A tree-support system involves setting a cable between two or more branches to prevent them from failing due to poor attachment, included bark or weather-related stress.

Cabling involves attaching a steel or fiber rope between two tree limbs, while trimming reduces the chance of limbs becoming too heavy and causing undue stress.

If your tree has heavy or unusually large limbs, consider having these methods done to provide added stability. Trimming and cabling work together to prevent dangerous consequences that come from falling limbs during severe weather conditions.

Both methods can help reduce the risk of property damage from falling limbs by both adding additional support to weak parts of the tree’s structure, and removing obstructing limbs.

Other Benefits of Cabling

Tree cabling is also a good option for trees with weak branch unions or crotches.

When the tree is young, it can be trained to develop a healthy branching structure; however, most homeowners inherit mature trees when they purchase a home.  If the trees have not been properly maintained there are likely some structural issues at play.

Cables are not recommended for supporting branches that show signs of decay.  Decaying limbs are not strong enough to support the tension of a cable. Therefore, this is a scenario where trimming is more effective.

Do You Need Tree Cabling?

If you’ve read this article and realize that there could be potentially dangerous trees or limbs affecting your home or business, we’re here to help.

Arbortech has over 25 years of experience and thousands of happy customers, so you can rely on us for tree services.

Find out more about our tree cabling or get an estimate.