Hazardous tree removal in Lafayette, LA
A tree doesn't have to fall to be dangerous. Here's how to spot a high-risk tree in Acadiana and what removing one involves.
A hazardous tree is one that's likely to fail and has something to land on: a house, a car, a carport, a play set or the neighbor's roof. These jobs take more planning than a routine removal, because a hollow or decayed tree can't be trusted to hold a climber or a rope the way sound wood does.
Signs a tree may be a hazard
- Dead branches in the crown, or a crown that's thinning year after year
- A lean that's new or getting worse, with soil heaving on the far side
- Cracks in the trunk or a split between two main stems
- Cavities, conks or soft wood near the base
- Mud tubes on the bark, or swarming termites from pruning scars in spring
- Roots cut by a new driveway, slab, sewer line or drainage work
Which trees worry arborists most here?
The LSU AgCenter's hurricane guidance lists water oak, laurel oak, pecan, Chinese tallow and Bradford pear among the trees with the lowest wind resistance, and laurel oak among those that lose the most branches. Large old trees are stiffer and more brittle, and tall trees catch more wind. The AgCenter also warns that a living tree isn't necessarily a sound one, and that most homeowners can't judge that without expert help.
Formosan termites inside the trunk
LSU AgCenter publication 3092 says Formosan subterranean termites can eat through almost any live tree until it falls, and a single tree nest can hold millions of termites. Signs include mud shelter tubes on the trunk, termites in the soil between the root flares, and swarm castles at limb or pruning scars. A tree still in good shape may be treatable. A badly hollowed one is usually safer to remove before hurricane season.
How are hazardous trees removed?
Crews often skip climbing a badly decayed tree and work from a bucket lift or bring in a crane. They may widen the work zone, close part of the driveway, or take the tree down in smaller pieces. Ask for a licensed arborist's opinion on whether the tree can be saved first.
The tree company prices the job after it has seen the tree, what's underneath it and how a truck or lift can reach it. We don't quote prices, and any number given over the phone before a visit is a rough starting point at best.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Can a tree with termites be saved?
Sometimes. LSU AgCenter says infested trees can be treated by a licensed pest control operator or a state-licensed arborist. Trees that are badly hollowed are usually removed.
Who decides whether a tree is dangerous?
A Louisiana-licensed arborist can assess it. Many tree services have one, or you can hire one separately for a second opinion.
Related services
More background: Lafayette tree removal guide.
Water oak on the roof, a pecan split in the storm, or a stump in the way?
Call and get connected with a Louisiana-licensed tree service that works in Lafayette Parish.