Tree cabling is a technique used to support weak or structurally compromised trees. It involves installing high-strength cables between the branches to reduce stress on weak tree limbs and prevent breakage. Additionally, braces (threaded steel rods) may be installed to reinforce split trunks. Tree cabling acts like a tree support system that helps prevent tree damage.
Professional tree cabling is done by a certified arborist. They inspect the tree thoroughly and identify the weak points, decay, or potential failure zones. Then, they strategize the approach to tree cabling. Cabling trees can be done by oneself as well, but it comes with certain limitations.
There are different types of tree cabling and each of them is required for different purposes.
Let us explore further about them in this blog.
Types of Tree Cabling and How They Are Done?
Based on the tree’s structure and existing conditions, three cabling techniques are used by tree care professionals.
Static Cabling
Static cabling involves installing high-strength steel cables between weak branches. An arborist drills holes through the branches and inserts lag hooks and bolts to anchor the cables securely. It is designed to restrict any movement and creates a rigid support system.
This is used typically for trees that have V-shaped branch unions or have heavy limbs prone to breaking or for trees in high-risk areas like houses, roads and schools.
Dynamic Cabling
Dynamic cabling uses flexible synthetic cables between the limbs. Unlike static cabling, dynamic cabling is non-invasive, i.e., it does not require any drilling. The cables just wrap around the branches like a sling. It is designed to allow the natural movement of the branches while still providing support.
Dynamic cabling is done for young and fast-growing trees, or healthy trees in strong wind areas.
Tree Bracing
Unlike tree cabling, which reduces movement between the limbs, bracing is used for trees with severe structural weaknesses, such as deep cracks or splits in the tree trunk. The arborist drills holes through the weak or splitting sections of the trees. Threaded steel rods are inserted and secured with heavy-duty nuts and washers to hold the structure together.
Tree bracing is combined with static cabling to offer the highest level of structural support.
Benefits of Tree Cabling
There are several advantages of tree cabling. Some of them are listed below.
- Prevent Branch Breakage: Trees with heavy branches or V-shaped crotches are often at risk of splitting under tension. Similarly, trees in high-wind areas can suffer breakage due to excessive movement. Timely inspection and cabling can help such trees from damage.
- Support Weak or Damaged Trees: As a tree matures, its branches become weak. Tree cables help to safeguard them. Trees that have suffered damage during extreme environmental conditions require a structural tree maintenance to sustain.
- Reduce Safety Risks: Aging trees near roads or homes are a potential risk to people living there. Branches of trees are considerably heavy and in case of failure can cause property damage. It is important to identify the vulnerable ones and either chop them off or support them using cables.
- Extend Tree Lifespan: Professional tree cabling and regular inspections help mature trees thrive for years without becoming a liability. Weak spots are identified and structural issues are tackled with supplemental support systems.
Who Needs Tree Cabling?
Tree cabling is absolutely a go-to option for anyone who loves their tree. However, below are some of the use cases where tree cabling is preferred.
- Homeowners with aging or valuable trees on their property that they don’t want to lose and also protect the nearby structure from any tree failure.
- Public spaces such as parks and golf courses, where the large trees are at risk of failure.
- Commercial properties where the owners want to maintain the natural beauty of the landscape while ensuring the safety of the people around.
How Is Professional Tree Cabling Different From DIY Cabling?
Although it may seem like a simple task that involves wrapping or drilling, tree cabling is not as straightforward as it appears. Precise drilling and suitable tension creation are required to ensure that one does not end up damaging the tree rather than protecting it.
Here are 3 reasons why professional cabling is better than DIY cabling.
Assessing Tree Health
A professional arborist understands the tree to the core. They can identify the weak spots even in a healthy tree which a normal person fails to notice. An arborist has the right knowledge to judge which technique is suitable for which type of limb failure.
Precise Drilling
Drilling is a critical aspect of bracing trees and static cabling. Improper drilling can lead to micro-fractures. Misaligned or oversized holes often lead to a weakened tree. This increases the risk of branch failure over time.
Installation of Cables
A professional knows how to calculate correct tension, load-bearing capacity and stress points to ensure that the cables are neither too loose nor too tight. While doing it by oneself, often leads to over-restricting natural movement or inadequate support, leading to breakage.
For all these reasons professional cabling installation is a safer option than doing it by oneself.
Looking for Professional Tree Cabling Services in Ontario?
If you are looking for a qualified arborist for tree cabling, who can help you with tree risk assessment, contact Stumps ’R’ Us. We are a tree care service based in St. Thomas, Ontario. We provide regular maintenance and cabling service. Contact us today for a professional tree care solution.
