Is Your Tree Leaning Dangerously? How to Tell When It’s a Risk
July 9, 2025
A slight tree lean might seem harmless—or even add character to your landscape—but not all leaning trees are safe. In fact, some can be serious hazards to your home, vehicles, and loved ones. If you’ve noticed a tree starting to tilt or one that has always leaned, it’s time to determine whether that tree is a picturesque quirk or a potential danger.
At JM Tree Service Douglasville, safety is always our top priority. Here’s how to spot the warning signs of a dangerously leaning tree and when to call in the professionals.
Common Causes of Leaning Trees
Not all trees grow perfectly upright. A lean can happen naturally or develop over time due to:
- Uneven sunlight (phototropism)
- Strong winds or storms
- Soil erosion or poor root anchoring
- Root damage from construction, pests, or disease
- Heavy canopy weight or improper pruning
Some of these causes are harmless, while others may signal structural instability.
Signs Your Leaning Tree Is a Serious Risk
Here’s how to tell if your tree is more than just leaning—it’s potentially dangerous:
1. Sudden Lean
If a tree that once stood straight begins to lean suddenly, that’s a red flag. This often indicates root failure, especially after a storm or heavy rain.
2. Exposed or Damaged Roots
Roots sticking out of the ground, heaving soil, or a lifted root plate suggest that the tree may be losing its grip in the ground.
3. Cracks in the Trunk or Base
Visible cracks, splits, or bulging at the base of a leaning tree could mean internal decay or stress from the tilt.
4. Soil Shifts or Mounds
If you see soil mounding on one side of the tree and sinking on the other, it’s a sign the tree is moving—and not in a good way.
5. Leaning Toward a Structure
A tree that leans toward your house, driveway, or power lines should always be assessed by a tree care professional.
When to Call a Tree Expert
Not all leaning trees need to be removed—but some do. A certified arborist can inspect the tree, assess its stability, and recommend the safest course of action.
At JM Tree Service Douglasville, we provide:
- Tree risk assessments
- Emergency tree removal
- Tree bracing and cabling solutions
- Root zone inspections
- Preventative tree care and maintenance
Don’t Wait Until It Falls
Trees can weigh thousands of pounds, and if one falls unexpectedly, it can cause serious damage—or worse. If you're in Douglasville or the surrounding area and suspect a tree on your property is leaning dangerously, don’t take chances.
Contact JM Tree Service Douglasville today for a professional evaluation. We’ll help you protect your property and keep your landscape safe and beautiful.
Contact Us:
JM Tree Service Douglasville
Douglasville, Georgia
770-343-4094
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