An example of what the end result of tree bracing looks like!
What is Tree Bracing?
Russell Tree Experts offers tree bracing services to reduce the risk of two or more tree stems from splitting apart, or to fasten and support a split or cracked union, improving the overall structure of your tree. This is accomplished by installing a number of threaded steel brace rods to prevent select tree unions from spreading or twisting apart or to prevent a split or cracked union from worsening. Tree pruning and tree cabling are commonly performed (and recommended) alongside the tree bracing service.
An example of a dominant stem.
Poor Tree Structure
Poor tree structure comes in many forms, but two of the most common forms we encounter include codominant unions and/or split or cracked unions. Codominant unions occur when two or more similarly sized stems grow from the same point of origin. This can quickly be identified in tree crowns by spotting tree unions with a tight “V” shape. Codominant unions frequently present a higher risk of splitting and failure because there inherent strength is weakened due to included bark (bark that is partially or fully engulfed into the tree’s wood), especially during adverse weather conditions. A split or cracked union commonly occurs in tree crowns due to unfavorable weight distribution and can be made worse by adverse weather conditions (high winds, snow and ice load), or by improper pruning or care. In situations where removing the branch or tree is not desired, tree bracing may be very beneficial.
Drilling through a tree union using an auger bit!
Tree bracing process
Our brace rod installation process typically begins with pruning the tree's crown to reduce unfavorable weight distribution and installing one or more static steel cables in the crown to support the suspect union from above. Once these initial steps are complete, we install a specified size and quantity of brace rods in your tree in accordance with the ANSI A300 Tree Support System Best Management Practices. This involves drilling holes through the union, inserting the threaded brace rods, and securing them with one or more washers, a lock washer, and a nut on both ends of each brace rod. We then tighten these connections as firmly as possible. Any excess length of threaded rod is cut off close to the nuts and subsequently peened off to prevent any movement of the nuts. The end result is a tree with increased structural integrity! If you are concerned with the structural integrity of your tree, one of our ISA Certified Arborists® can help you determine if tree bracing is right for your tree.