What is Tree Cabling and When is It Necessary?

Published On: April 15th, 20222.7 min read

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.

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     Based on 323 reviews 
    
 
 
   
 
 
        
   greg v 
 2023-10-25
 
 
  Great team and very professional, they efficiently took down some large older trees that were dying and hanging over my house and in very difficult positions while also requiring them to manage traffic, I will definitely use them again in the future
  
 
       
   Peter Kelly 
 2023-10-16
 
 
  I would give 6 Stars if I could.  This is the third time I've used Justin and his crew of Arbortech.   He and his crew go above and beyond in the services they provide.  They do all, and then some, of what I contracted them to do.  His crew is personable, professional, and tidy.  They left my place cleaner than when they got here.  Can't say enough.  Use them.  You won't be disappointed.
  
 
       
   Tracy Cole 
 2023-10-13
 
 
  Great job…nice clean up!!  Will use them again!!!
  
 
       
   Roger Leardi 
 2023-10-12
 
 
  These guys are professionals.

They came when they said they would, they were quick, neat and professional. They did exactly what they quoted.

The crew was polite and friendly.

I was super pleased with the service and would highly recommend them if you need tree service.
  
 
       
   Venus Dickson 
 2023-09-28
 
 
  Arbor tech and their crew were amazing!!!  Not only did I not have to wait a long time to schedule the work, but they also came on time the day of.  The crew were friendly, professional and helpful.  They went above and beyond what I expected them to do.  They even cleaned up afterwards as if they weren’t even there.  The price I was quoted was reasonable and they did not charge more than was quoted.  The whole experience was fantastic.  I will be using them in the future.  I highly recommend them!  You will not be disappointed.
  
 
       
   Pamela Hayden 
 2023-09-22
 
 
  Absolutely the very best. They arrived on time. The yard was taken care of and left in perfect shape. They did everything we asked ……we will definitely be using them again. The gentlemen  doing the job were pleasant and professional.
  
 
       
   Richard Roy 
 2023-09-22
 
 
  All aspects of our experience with Arbortech were beyond expectation (5+ stars at all levels).
From the scheduling process and ongoing coordination and discussions with Lindsey to the onsite discussions with Justin, and finally with the crew while the work was being done, we couldn't be happier.  They listened, they provided insight to our project while remaining very sensitive to our privacy concerns with the trimming of our pines.
In an evolving world where a lot of customer care seems to have vanished, we are grateful we found a company where it seems to be a core component of their values.  HIGHLY RECOMMEND
  
 
       
   Edward Figiela 
 2023-09-11
 
 
  That are a great company to work with would recommend them to all!!
  
 
       
   Greer Cunningham 
 2023-09-09
 
 
  From start to finish our experience with Arbortech was wonderful! Lindsey was extremely responsive and worked with us to set up both the estimate and schedule the work. She even communicated with our neighbor to coordinate the timing as we needed to use their driveway for the job. Justin came promptly to look at our trees, explained our options in a very clear an professional way, and gave us an extremely fair estimate. The guys who came and did the work did a really great job and cleaned up everything afterwards, so we (and our neighbor) were very happy. They were also very friendly and gracious even though they were working during a crazy heat wave- they appreciated the popsicles I gave them! I highly recommend Arbortech Tree Service!