Introduction
As storm season approaches in the UK, most homeowners start thinking about securing fences, checking gutters, or preparing drains. Yet, one of the most critical safety checks is often missed entirely: the condition of your trees. High winds, heavy rain, and saturated soil are a dangerous mix—especially if your trees are weakened, overgrown or structurally compromised.
At Linton Tree Surgeons, we’ve seen first-hand the impact of neglected trees during severe weather across Linton and the wider Cambridge area. A proactive tree check isn’t just about protecting your greenery—it’s about safeguarding your home, your family, and your surroundings.
Trees Are More Vulnerable Than You Think
While mature trees may seem robust, they’re not immune to stress. Storms expose any hidden vulnerabilities—whether it’s root rot, hollow trunks, decaying limbs or previous poor pruning. Trees in urban or suburban gardens are particularly at risk as they often stand close to:
- Residential buildings
- Driveways and parked vehicles
- Power lines or telecom cables
- Pavements and public footpaths
Without regular inspections, these trees can become a serious hazard when storm conditions hit.
Key Risks of Ignoring Pre-Storm Tree Checks
Failing to assess your trees before storm season can result in:
- Falling branches damaging roofs, cars, and windows
- Toppling trees causing structural damage to buildings
- Blocked access from fallen trees across driveways or public paths
- Injuries to household members, pedestrians, or neighbours
- Drainage issues from excessive debris clogging gutters and pipes
Many of these incidents are preventable with early intervention. A simple pre-storm inspection could be the difference between peace of mind and an emergency callout.
What Tree Surgeons Look For
A professional tree check before storm season will identify any high-risk areas and recommend action if needed. This includes inspecting for:
- Dead or hanging branches in the crown
- Splits or cracks in major limbs
- Leaning trunks and compromised root systems
- Weak branch unions and signs of past storm damage
- Fungal growth or decay at the base
Trees that seem healthy from a distance may conceal problems only noticeable to a trained eye. Early detection enables targeted pruning or felling before a storm turns a weakness into a disaster.
Benefits of a Proactive Approach
Getting ahead of potential issues has several advantages:
- Prevents damage before it happens
- Reduces the need for emergency work during busy storm periods
- Improves the long-term health of your trees through proper maintenance
- Supports insurance claims with documented evidence of responsible tree care
- Keeps outdoor areas safer for children, pets and visitors
This kind of preventative care shows respect for your property and surrounding community while also extending the lifespan of your trees.
Conclusion
Storms are unpredictable—but your preparation doesn’t have to be. A tree that stands tall for decades can still fail overnight when wind, rain and neglect collide. That’s why every storm season should begin with a professional tree check.
At Linton Tree Surgeons, we help homeowners and property managers across Linton and Cambridge identify and address tree hazards before they become emergencies. Whether you have a single mature tree or an entire garden canopy, contact us today to schedule a seasonal check. It’s a small step that could prevent major problems later on.
Call us on: 01223 919 495
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