Is That Tree a Ticking Time Bomb? How to Tell If Your Tree Needs Cabling Before the Next Storm

It’s 2 a.m. The wind is howling, rain is slamming the windows, and then comes that sharp, cracking sound. A large limb from your favorite shade tree just hit the ground, only feet from your bedroom window. Your heart is pounding. You’re asking yourself, “Could I have prevented this?”

In places like Murfreesboro, Smyrna, and Arrington, we know storms don’t knock. They blow through hard and fast. Trees that looked perfectly healthy yesterday can become serious hazards overnight.

That’s where cabling comes in. It’s one of the smartest steps you can take to protect both your property and the trees you love.

The One Preventative Step Most Homeowners Don’t Know About

Tree cabling is a technique arborists use to reinforce trees with structural weaknesses. Think of it like a brace that supports a weakened joint. It keeps limbs from splitting apart during high winds and helps trees maintain their integrity under pressure.

Cabling doesn’t interfere with how a tree grows or looks. It’s not invasive. When done right, it’s practically invisible to the eye. It can also be the difference between saving your tree or calling us in for emergency removal.

What Changes When a Tree Is Properly Supported

Here’s what we see when customers invest in proactive tree cabling:

Before cabling

• Anxiety every time a storm is in the forecast
• Worry about limbs falling on the roof, driveway, or fence
• Uncertainty about whether a tree is stable or a risk
• Surprise emergency costs from preventable damage

After cabling by Stump Eater

• Peace of mind knowing the tree is supported by professionals
• Confidence during storms, even with older or awkwardly shaped trees
• A clear understanding of tree health and risk
• Long-term savings through preventative care

How to Tell If Your Tree Might Need Cabling

These signs can show up gradually, which is why many homeowners miss them until something goes wrong. Here’s a simple checklist you can use today:

• Cracks or splits in the trunk or large limbs
  These are signs of internal stress that will worsen in wind or rain.
• Multiple leaders (two trunks growing from the same point)
  This is especially common in trees like Bradford pear or silver maple. These “Y” formations can tear apart under pressure.
• Heavy, unbalanced limbs stretching far from the trunk
  These limbs act like sails in a storm and are more likely to break.
• Trees that lean or grow unevenly
  A lean isn’t always dangerous, but when it changes over time, it’s a red flag.
• Previous limb loss or storm damage
  If your tree has a history of failure, its structure has already been compromised.
• Mushrooms or root disturbances near the base
  Fungal growth and exposed roots often mean the tree’s foundation is weakened.

If any of these apply to a tree on your property, it’s time to get it evaluated.

Why Tree Cabling Works and Why It Has to Be Done Right

Tree cabling works by redistributing stress across the canopy. It protects weak points and provides the kind of internal support that can make all the difference during high winds or ice buildup.

Cabling should always be done by trained professionals who follow ANSI A300 standards. When installed incorrectly, cables can actually harm a tree or fail when you need them most.

At Stump Eater Tree Service, we:

• Use high-quality, non-invasive materials
• Know how to identify proper anchor points
• Inspect your entire tree, not just the obvious trouble spots
• Monitor installed systems over time to ensure safety and growth

Think of cabling as a safety net for your tree. It doesn’t restrict growth. It keeps the limbs supported like a seatbelt holds you in place. Not because you plan to crash, but because you don’t want to crash in the first place.

Why Trust Stump Eater Tree Service?

Because this isn’t just a job for us. It’s three generations of family expertise rooted right here in Rutherford County. We know the trees. We know the soil. And we know exactly how hard the wind hits in Murfreesboro or Smyrna on a spring night.

• Over 275 five-star reviews from your neighbors
• Fully licensed and insured for your peace of mind
• 24/7 storm emergency services when you need us most
• Clear estimates, honest advice, and no pressure

We make the process simple. We’ll inspect, explain, and if cabling makes sense, we’ll get it done quickly and correctly. You’ll know exactly what your tree needs and why.

Want proof? See what others have said on our Google Business Profile.

The Best Time to Cable? Before It’s Urgent

The ideal time for cabling is before storms are expected. Late winter to early spring is perfect because trees haven’t filled out with heavy foliage yet, and the wind season hasn’t kicked into high gear.

That said, the second-best time is now. If you’re reading this and thinking about that big tree out back, don’t wait for the next weather alert to make a move.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if cabling will actually save my tree?
We’ll inspect and give you a straight answer. If a tree is worth saving, cabling can often give it the support it needs to thrive.

Will it hurt my tree?
No. Our cabling systems are designed to work with the tree’s natural growth and movement. We never install anything that chokes or damages the tree.

Is it expensive?
It depends on the tree’s size and structure, but most customers are surprised how affordable it is, especially compared to emergency removals. And yes, estimates are always free.

Is this a one-time fix?
In many cases, yes. But we may recommend periodic inspections to make sure everything’s holding up as the tree grows.

Can you cable my tree during an emergency?
Yes. We offer 24/7 emergency response and can stabilize dangerous trees on short notice.

Don’t Let Your Tree Become a Statistic

Your tree doesn’t have to fall to be dangerous. If it’s showing any of the signs above, we encourage you to get ahead of it now.

Let’s get your yard storm-ready and your mind worry-free.

Call Stump Eater Tree Service today to schedule your free tree safety inspection. You might just save your favorite tree from becoming your next headache.

<p>The post Is That Tree a Ticking Time Bomb? How to Tell If Your Tree Needs Cabling Before the Next Storm first appeared on Stump Eater Tree Service.</p>

source https://stumpeater.com/how-to-tell-if-your-tree-needs-cabling-before-the-next-storm/

Fallen Trees and Insurance Claims: What Tennessee Homeowners Really Need to Know

The Moment You Hear the CRACK…

That heart-stopping sound of wood splitting during a storm. The kind of noise that makes you freeze, hoping it’s just a branch. But then you see it: the tree, now horizontal. Across your driveway. On your garage. Or worse, tangled in power lines.

Now what?

Here’s the truth: you don’t need more stress. You need a plan, a partner, and some peace of mind. That’s where we come in.

Let’s Cut Through the Confusion

We know insurance jargon isn’t exactly thrilling reading material. But when a tree hits your roof at 2:00 AM, suddenly the fine print really matters. That’s why we’re breaking this down into three clear, manageable parts:

1. What causes trees to fall in our part of Tennessee and how to see it coming
2. What insurance typically covers (and doesn’t) when it happens
3. What to do right now and how Stump Eater Tree Service makes this whole mess manageable

Let’s dig in.

Part 1: Why Do Trees Fall Here, and Could Yours Be Next?

Think of your property like a chessboard. Trees are your queens: majestic, powerful, and occasionally unpredictable.

In Rutherford County, we’re no strangers to:

• Tornadoes sweeping through Murfreesboro
• Saturated soil softening roots after spring downpours
• Summer lightning storms zapping already stressed branches
• Heavy winds toppling trees weakened by pests or disease

The reality is, a tree might look strong above ground, but below? Think of it like a soda straw in a puddle. It can tip over with surprisingly little force.

Before: “That tree’s been leaning for years. It’s probably fine.”
After: “We had it inspected last fall and removed it before it became a problem.”

Part 2: Will Insurance Pay for That Fallen Tree?

Short answer: sometimes, yes.
Long answer: it depends on what the tree hit, why it fell, and what shape it was in beforehand.

Typically covered:

• Tree damages your home, fence, garage, or other insured structure
• Removal costs if the tree caused covered damage
• Emergency removal if it blocks access or creates a hazard

Typically not covered:

• Tree falls harmlessly in your yard (unless cleanup is part of your policy)
• Pre-existing neglect (dead, diseased, or visibly leaning trees not removed in time)
• Trees that fall from a neighbor’s property (unless they were proven negligent)

Think of insurance like a fire extinguisher. It helps when things go wrong unexpectedly, but it’s not a free pass for skipped maintenance.

Part 3: What to Do Immediately After a Tree Falls

Time matters. Panic does not help. Here’s your calm, clear action plan:

1. Secure the scene. Stay safe. Watch for downed wires and unstable limbs.
2. Document everything. Take photos and video with timestamps, if possible.
3. Call your insurance agent. File the claim, but do not move the tree yet.
4. Call Stump Eater Tree Service. We’re available 24/7 for storm emergencies.

We do more than clear debris. We create clarity. Our team provides the documentation your insurer needs, helps you understand the terminology, and even supports communication with your insurance company if needed.

Before: “I have no idea who to call. Is this even covered?”
After: “Stump Eater handled it before I could panic. They even helped me file my claim.”

Bonus: How to Prevent the Next Emergency

You don’t wait for your car to break down on the interstate.  You get it serviced. Your trees deserve the same attention.

Here’s how we help you stay ahead of the next storm:

• Risk assessments for leaning, diseased, or dead trees
• Proactive trimming to reduce wind resistance
• Strategic removal of hazardous trees near structures
• Health care plans for long-term tree stability

This is not just about removing threats. It’s about protecting your peace of mind.

Why Stump Eater Tree Service Is the First Call You Should Make

When disaster strikes, you don’t want a contractor. You want a partner.

We are:

• Local, born and rooted in Murfreesboro
• Family-owned, with three generations of experience
• Reviewed by hundreds of happy neighbors (over 275 five-star reviews)
• Fully licensed, insured, and equipped for emergency tree removal

Before: Frustrated by no-shows, fine print, and long hold times
After: “They answered on the first ring, showed up the same day, and handled everything.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Does insurance cover removing the whole tree or just the part that hit the house?
Usually just the part that caused the damage, unless the tree blocked access or poses an ongoing risk.

Will my premiums go up if I file a tree-related claim?
That depends on your provider, but storm damage is generally considered “no fault.”

What if it’s my neighbor’s tree?
If they were warned the tree was dangerous and didn’t act, their insurance might be responsible.

Do I need a permit to remove a tree after a storm?
Not for emergency removals. We handle permits if needed for larger follow-up work.

Can you work directly with my insurance?
Absolutely. We’ve done this many times and know exactly what documentation and communication your provider needs.

Final Thought: Don’t Let a Fallen Tree Uproot Your Peace

If a tree just fell or you’re staring at one that looks like it might, call us today. Even better, let us look at your property before the next storm rolls in.

Visit or call Stump Eater Tree Service to see how your neighbors trust us in emergencies. Let’s get your yard and your peace of mind back.

<p>The post Fallen Trees and Insurance Claims: What Tennessee Homeowners Really Need to Know first appeared on Stump Eater Tree Service.</p>

source https://stumpeater.com/fallen-trees-and-insurance-claims/