Tree Bracing In Columbia, SC
One of the challenges most trees encounter relates to their structural integrity. When a tree becomes weak or begins to lose its structural integrity, its immediate environment becomes unsafe.
Problems with their structural integrity can constitute a threat to the life and property of humans living close by. Most cases of falling branches or limbs are often related to poor structural support. Cracks that have been unattended will eventually lead to the breaking or falling of trees, leading to damage to life and property.
Factors responsible for lack of structural support in trees usually range from the tree's age, type of wood, the weight of branches, inadequate tree care, pest and disease infestation, storms, and growth pattern.
However, tree bracing and cabling procedure can help address several cases of structural concerns. It is safe to say that bracing and cabling may not be applicable in some cases. But it can be just as effective in some average and minor cases.
Bracing and cabling is a highly skilled procedure that is carried out by tree service professionals to address structural integrity problems in trees. It features the use of rigid rods, braces, steel cables and other relevant materials to hold a tree’s limbs together and to prevent it from falling apart.
Do I Need Tree Bracing and Cabling?
Signs your tree may require Cabling and Bracing
⦁ Sagging broken and cracked branches
⦁ Trunk splitting and splittings on branch junctions.
⦁ Excessive movement during high winds and storms
⦁ The production of a cracking sound due to the weight of snow.
What Requires Bracing and Cabling
Codominant stems: This happens when two or more limbs share the same base. Such phenomenon doesn't always call for alarm but a closer observation. During observations, the shape formed where the stems meet is carefully scrutinized. A v-shaped base signifies competition between both stems and would eventually result in improper development of adhesive wood. If, on the other hand, a shape apart from the V shape is observed, then the cold dominant stems are less of a problem.
. Cracks in unions: Cracks are found on codominant unions. These defects are harder to identify and can be disguised for several years. When a crack begins to heal, it forms scar tissues on the union. The scar tissue helps maintain a seal on the vascular system of the tree.
Cavities: These are weak points and holes in limbs, branches, and trunks of trees. They are caused by several factors that can include wounds caused by pruning, insects, the decay of organisms, and winterization cracks. Exposures of a tree's interior by cavities will result in Wood rotting, which forms another structural deficiency.
Types of Cabling and Bracing
There are two types of cabling systems, namely static cabling and dynamic cabling.
Static Cabling: In static cabling, a steel cable of extra high strength is used to fasten and hold together parts of the tree where the structural defect is located.
Dynamic cabling: This involves the use of braided ropes with elastic properties to keep together various parts of the affected tree parts to prevent them from breaking off completely. Here, the cables are designed to allow the movement of tree parts. Bracing is mostly carried out on cavities and the union of trees where structural defects are located.