How to Deal With a Structurally Unsound Tree

Man Trimming Trees With Shears — Fenton, MO — Baumann Tree
You can probably imagine why a structurally unstable tree is a problem. A tree with poor stability and weak, unstable branches is more likely to drop a limb, split down the middle, or even fall over. If the tree is near a building or driveway, your tree's structural instability could be even more hazardous.

Discover some of the ways a tree services expert can help you to mitigate the issue of a structurally unsound tree.

Prune Off Recent Weak Growth

In some cases, your tree professional may be able to prune the tree back into shape. This is especially the case if the tree has only started to grow weak or have unbalanced growth in the past couple of years.


For example, if you have a young tree and it's started to grow water sprouts, which are structurally undesirable, tree experts can prune them back. This type of pruning can keep the tree from becoming more and more unstable.

Add Cables and Braces

Cables and braces are support materials that can help a tree survive a less-than-ideal structure. For instance, if your tree has grown with a dual leader for too long, it will have a large Y-shaped fork part way up its trunk. If it's too far advanced to prune back to a single leader, a brace may help to strengthen a weak fork.


Some of the other structural issues that cabling and bracing can help solve include:


  • A tree that leans slightly due to an unstable root system
  • A weak branch that sags closer and closer to the ground
  • A branch that's started to crack


Your tree service experts can inspect any weak tree structures to see if cabling or bracing treatments may be necessary.

Remove Diseased Portions to Preserve the Remainder of the Tree

In some cases, structural unsoundness may come from ailments such as disease and rot. For instance, if the tree has a branch canker that has weakened the wood of a particular limb, you may simply need to remove the entire branch. Bracing the limb won't stop the progression of the disease, and if the limb isn't removed, the damage could spread.


In this scenario, you may end up having to remove the damaged branch simply to keep the rest of the tree from succumbing to the same problem.

Replace the Entire Tree

If your tree has significant structural damage in the trunk or too many of its limbs, your tree expert may advise simply removing and replacing the tree. For example, if the tree has an advanced canker problem or if it was struck by lightning and split down the middle, the tree may be a lost cause.


You'll need an experienced tree services professional to help you decide whether your tree may be salvageable or whether you should simply schedule a removal. A tree services company can help you get the tree safely out of your yard and remove the stump via grinding so you can replace the tree with a new sapling.

Treat Pest Problems to Stop Structural Damage

Pests such as the Emerald Ash Borer can cause structural damage by tunneling inside the trunk of a previously healthy tree. If your tree has an infestation, this means it has some of these tunnels in it, which start to weaken the tree's structure.


Tree removal may be in order if the tree is too weakened by the pests already. However, if you catch it early enough, a treatment to kill the pests may be enough to save the tree.


The options for how to proceed with a structurally unsound tree depend on what the root cause of the instability is and how bad the problem is. The local tree services professionals at Baumann Tree will be able to help you determine exactly what your tree's situation is and the best way to proceed with remedying any structural instability.

April 4, 2025
When you need expert tree care in St. Louis, MO, Baumann Tree is the trusted local tree service you can rely on. Specializing in tree removal, trimming, and general maintenance, their skilled team ensures your trees stay healthy and your property stays safe. Whether it’s a routine trim, storm damage clean-up, or large tree removal, Baumann Tree offers reliable and affordable solutions tailored to your needs. With a focus on customer satisfaction and quality service, Baumann Tree uses top-of-the-line equipment to handle every job with precision and care. For all your tree service needs in St. Louis, MO, call Baumann Tree at 636-375-2812 for professional, friendly local tree service you can count on.
A man with green overalls and scissors trims hedges in a lush garden, showcasing tree care skills.
March 27, 2025
Discover the benefits of tree care in St. Louis, MO, with Baumann Tree. Call (636) 375-2812 for expert tree services and a healthier landscape today!
March 21, 2025
Severe storms can wreak havoc on trees, causing broken limbs, uprooted trunks, and dangerous debris. At Baumann Tree , we help protect your property with expert tree care, storm damage prevention, and fast cleanup.
Professional tree removal service, young man safely cutting tree in urban backyard | Baumann Tree |
January 30, 2025
Learn about the efficient tree removal process in St Louis, MO with Baumann Tree. Contact us today for hassle-free tree removal services!
January 17, 2025
Trees are beautiful additions to any landscape, but there are times when tree removal becomes necessary for safety, aesthetic, or health reasons. Whether it’s due to storm damage, disease, or the need for space, removing a tree requires expert care and precision. That’s where Baumann Tree comes in. As one of St. Louis’ premier tree service providers, we specialize in safe, efficient, and affordable tree removal to ensure the well-being of your property.
January 14, 2025
Your Trusted Local Tree Service: Baumann Tree Service Has You Covered
January 9, 2025
Ensure tree safety & beauty with Tree Care in St Louis MO. Schedule your free estimate now at (636) 375-2812 to maintain your property with expert care.
January 7, 2025
Winter in St. Louis, MO, can bring harsh conditions, including snow and ice that can cause significant damage to your trees. At Baumann Tree Service , we are your trusted local tree service company, dedicated to ensuring your trees stay healthy and safe throughout the winter months. With our professional snow and ice tree services, we help prevent damage caused by the weight of snow and ice, so you can enjoy peace of mind during even the harshest winter storms.
December 20, 2024
When a powerful storm strikes, it can leave behind a trail of destruction. Downed trees, broken branches, and hazardous debris can quickly turn your property into a dangerous area. Whether it's a summer thunderstorm, winter snowstorm, or spring tornado, storm damage can affect your trees and landscape in unexpected ways. At Baumann Tree Service , we understand the urgency of tree-related storm damage and are proud to offer Emergency Storm Damage Tree Services to ensure your property stays safe and protected.
November 12, 2024
When it comes to tree removal in St. Louis, MO, finding a reliable, skilled, and professional tree care service is key to ensuring the safety of your home and property. Baumann Tree has built a stellar reputation for providing top-quality tree removal services , and it’s no surprise why so many homeowners in the area trust us with their tree care needs. With glowing reviews from satisfied customers, Baumann Tree is the go-to choice for tree removal in St. Louis.
More Posts