While you may be accustomed to extreme changes in weather as a resident of Lincoln, these weather conditions often present themselves suddenly. What may have been a relatively calm afternoon, could quickly become a wind advisory. And what may have been a gentle rain shower, could rapidly escalate into a torrential downpour with little advance notice. The weather patterns associated with extreme swings in temperature will subject nearby trees, particularly larger trees or those which are situated in poor growing soils, to an increased level of stress.
A leaning tree, early signs of decay in the trunk of a tree, or branches that hang slightly lower than they should, may appear to be nothing more than minor concerns at this time. However, Nebraska’s erratic weather can quickly transform a minimal concern into a serious issue overnight. As such, many Lincoln residents proactively address tree-related issues prior to severe weather forcing them to do so.
Why Older or Damaged Trees Are a Hidden Risk
Tree Hazards often have hidden dangers and therefore may not be noticeable. Even though a tree looks perfect from the exterior, there could be damage such as decay, splits or hollows inside the tree. Additionally, Nebraska has many types of insects such as Carpenter Ants, Emerald Ash Borers and Beetles that can quietly destroy the interior of the tree.
Typically by the time a Homeowner realizes the problem exists it is due to a Storm revealing it – either a cracked limb on their Roof, a Broken Branch in their Yard or a split in their Trunk after High Winds.
Additionally, Winter Ice will add additional weight to weak Branches and therefore increase the likelihood of failure. In addition to the added weight, Spring Storms will include High Wind which will further stress the weakened limbs. Therefore when we combine Age, Decay, Pests and Weather; even a Tree that “looked Fine” can Fail without Warning.
Identifying these issues early on can save Homeowners Thousands of Dollars in Repairs and Prevent Dangerous Situations.
How Tree Roots Quietly Damage Homes Over Time
While many focus on fallen tree branches, the most costly and non-obvious types of home damage come from tree roots.
Tree roots develop slowly and silently so by the time you become aware of a problem it may be too late. The larger trees that are typically found in the Lincoln area such as cottonwoods, maples and elm trees will have large enough root systems to:
- push into foundation walls
- crack or lift sidewalks and driveways
- disrupt underground utilities
- cause basement leaks
- create uneven soil settlement around the home
The roots of trees will impact the flow of water in the ground as well. When there are rainy seasons, roots will keep the earth from shifting. However, when you have long dry spells such as what occurs at times in Lincoln, roots take moisture from the soil which causes it to contract. Eventually, this contraction could lead to settling, cracks, etc., around your house’s base. A certified arborist can assess if a tree’s root system poses a danger and whether removing the tree would be the best protection for your home.
Why Certified Arborists Are Essential for Safe Removal
Tree removal is not something to “try out” with basic tools. It’s a technical process that requires training, experience, and an understanding of how a tree will behave once cuts are made — especially close to houses, garages, fences, or power lines.
A certified arborist knows how to:
- read the load distribution of the trunk and branches
- identify internal weaknesses you might not see
- set up safe drop zones and controlled removal paths
- use ropes, rigging, and barriers to guide each cut
- work around structures without causing damage
A single miscalculated cut by an untrained person can result in severe property damage or injury. Arborists in Lincoln are also familiar with local tree species, soil conditions, and weather patterns, giving them insight into how specific trees respond to storms and stress.
Preventing Expensive Storm-Related Damage
When a tree comes down during a storm, the cost of repairs is almost always more than homeowners expect. A falling branch or trunk can:
- tear into the roof
- break windows
- punch holes in siding
- damage vehicles
- pull down power lines
- destroy fences and outdoor structures
Even with insurance, homeowners often face deductibles, uncovered expenses, and long wait times for repairs and cleanup services. And if the tree was already known to be hazardous before the storm, insurance companies may reduce coverage.
Regular evaluations and preventive removal dramatically reduce the chances of storm-related emergencies, saving both money and stress.
Protecting Your Lincoln Home Through Preventive Tree Care
Lincoln’s blend of hot summers, dry spells, thunderstorms, and winter ice makes regular tree care essential. Routine assessments help identify:
- leaning trunks
- large cracks
- soil heaving
- dead or dying limbs
- pest damage
- root issues near foundations
Removing a hazardous tree before a storm presents risks and damages your property is less expensive and safe than letting a storm reveal the hazard.
Tree removal professionals are not simply tree removal companies. In addition to tree removal services, they also evaluate, diagnose, offer recommendations, and guide property owners on how to protect their investments (property) and loved ones with safety and long term protection.
Preparation is the most effective method of protecting against costly damage from storms, particularly in a location such as Lincoln that may go from sunny skies to a windstorm in a matter of hours.
