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If you’re a Kent homeowner and want to know more about cable bracing then you’re in the right place!

Trees can be remarkably resilient but like any living thing, they sometimes need a helping hand. Whether it’s an old oak that’s become a feature in your garden or a mature beech that’s starting to show signs of strain, keeping trees safe and standing often comes down to the right kind of support.

That’s where cable bracing comes in. A specialist technique designed to protect trees with structural weaknesses without resorting to heavy pruning or removal.

In this blog, we’ll explain exactly what cable bracing is, when it’s needed, and how it can help you preserve the trees you value most across Kent.

Understanding cable bracing

Cable bracing is a professional tree support method used to help trees with structural weaknesses. In simple terms, it involves installing flexible, high-strength cables between branches or stems to limit movement and reduce the chance of failure in high winds or heavy weather.

It’s often used when a tree has two or more main stems (known as co-dominant stems) that could split apart, cracks or weaknesses forming at the junction between branches, a large limb that’s grown too heavy or extended too far or visible signs of stress or damage that could worsen in storms

By carefully installing bracing cables, arborists can reduce strain on weak points and extend the life of the tree – avoiding the need for unnecessary removal.

At About Trees, we use modern, non-invasive systems designed to support the tree without drilling or causing long-term damage. These systems are discreet, effective and ideal for mature specimens that you’d rather preserve than lose.

When is cable bracing needed for your Kent home?

Cable bracing isn’t something that every tree needs, but it’s an excellent solution in the right circumstances. You might consider it if you have a much-loved tree with a visible split or weak fork that you don’t want to remove, you’ve noticed excessive movement during high winds, you’ve recently had a tree survey that highlighted structural defects or the tree is located near buildings, pathways or areas where falling branches would be a safety risk

In Kent, we often see the need for cable bracing in older gardens or established properties where mature trees have grown large over time. Trees in built-up or exposed areas, like parts of Whitstable or the outskirts of Maidstone, can be especially vulnerable to wind stress.

For homeowners and landowners who want to retain their trees safely, cable bracing offers a practical, long-term solution.

How the cable bracing process works?

At About Trees, every cable bracing project starts with a thorough assessment. Here’s how we typically approach it:

Inspection and diagnosis: Our qualified arborists visit your property to inspect the tree’s structure and health. We’ll identify any weak unions, heavy limbs, or signs of cracking and decide whether bracing is appropriate.

Design and quotation: Once we’ve confirmed that bracing is the right option, we’ll provide a clear quotation and plan showing where the cables will be installed and what type of system will be used.

Installation: The bracing system is installed at carefully selected anchor points in the upper canopy to redistribute weight and movement. We always use flexible, high-quality materials that move naturally with the tree.

Follow-up care: After installation, regular inspections are essential to ensure the system remains effective as the tree grows and seasons change. We can schedule maintenance checks and adjustments as part of your ongoing tree care plan.

The benefits of cable bracing

Cable bracing offers several key advantages including it preserves mature trees that would otherwise need to be heavily pruned or felled, improves safety by reducing the risk of structural failure, minimises damage to the tree, using flexible, non-invasive systems, maintains natural appearance – most systems are barely visible once in place and provides peace of mind, especially during strong winds or storms

While cable bracing can extend the life of a tree for many years, it’s important to remember that it isn’t a permanent fix. Regular inspections are essential to ensure continued safety and effectiveness.

Is cable bracing right for your tree?

If you’re unsure whether cable bracing is suitable for your tree, it’s always best to have an expert take a look. The decision depends on factors like species, health, position, and how severe the structural defect is.

Our team at About Trees has extensive experience working with trees across Kent from the coastal gardens of Whitstable to larger properties near Tunbridge Wells and Maidstone. We can help you decide whether cable bracing is the best solution, or whether pruning, monitoring, or removal might be more appropriate.

In summary

Cable bracing is a tried-and-tested way to help trees with structural weaknesses remain stable, safe, and healthy. When installed and maintained by a qualified arborist, it can significantly extend a tree’s lifespan – allowing you to retain its beauty and character for years to come.

If you have a tree on your property that you’re concerned about, contact our team for honest, expert advice. We’ll visit your site, assess the tree and recommend the best course of action for your situation.

The Importance of Hiring Qualified Tree Surgeons: Ensuring Safety and Compliance | Why You Should Hire Qualified Tree Surgeons

Any work involving trees comes with numerous risks and complexities. Tree work often necessitates specialist equipment, dangerous heights, and tricky natural elements to deal with – not to mention the specific legal requirements around tree care on your property. With that in mind, this article looks at why it’s important to hire qualified tree surgeons for any work you need carried out. We also look at some resources you can turn to for help.

For property owners, trees obviously play an important role. They improve just about everything in your natural environment – from air quality and shade coverage to the general aesthetics of your garden.

However, maintaining trees can sometimes be a tricky business. The care needed for trees can be unpredictable, and keeping them in tip-top shape requires expertise and precision.

In this article, we’ll offer an in-depth look at why it’s vital you hire qualified tree surgeons to carry out any maintenance work needed on your property.

Why do I need a qualified tree surgeon?

If someone who is unqualified handles tree care, it can lead to severe consequences, including injury, property damage, and legal issues. Qualified tree surgeons will have the training, certifications, and experience to ensure safety and compliance with industry standards.

They’ll also be insured by their expert company, in a way that means both they – and you – are covered for any liability.

Risks of unqualified tree work

Attempting tree maintenance without the proper skills and equipment is a recipe for disaster. That might sound dramatic, but it’s unfortunately 100% true! Trees are complex, imposing things, and they need to be cared for with due diligence. Here are some of the risks that come with unqualified tree work:

Improper assessment of a tree’s health

Before any tree work is carried out, you will need to assess tree health, structural integrity, and environmental factors. Unqualified individuals lack the necessary knowledge to assess these factors, which can – and will – lead to poor decision-making. For instance, improper pruning techniques can weaken a tree, making it more susceptible to disease or collapse during storms.

Endangerment to property and individuals

Incorrect felling practices can result in trees falling unpredictably, which is a real safety risk. There are many negative effects, but the chief of these is that it poses an immediate danger to individual lives and to property. To put it bluntly, you don’t want to end up as another tragic accident statistic!

Legal repercussions

Beyond the immediate physical dangers, unqualified tree work can lead to legal and financial repercussions. Many local councils and authorities in the UK have regulations regarding tree care, especially for trees under Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) or those located in conservation areas. Unauthorised or poorly executed work can result in fines or legal action.

Other risks

Following on from the above risk, it’s worth adding that if an unqualified individual causes damage to neighbouring properties or public infrastructure, the property owner may be held liable for the costs. Insurers will not cover damages caused by uncertified workers, leaving homeowners to bear the full financial burden.

What will a certified tree surgeon do?

The first thing a certified tree surgeon will do for you is offer peace of mind. Certified arborists and tree surgeons have the experience and credentials to know what they’re doing and to take this risk-filled work out of your hands. Here’s an idea of what a tree surgeon will do for you:

Use their extensive training on the job: Certified arborists and tree surgeons undergo rigorous training and testing to ensure they have the skills needed to handle all aspects of tree care.

Identify problems for you: Tree surgeons are well-versed in areas like tree biology, proper pruning techniques, and disease management, as well as safe removal practices. This expertise allows them to identify problems for you and make informed decisions that promote the long-term health of your trees, while also mitigating risks.

Ensure full safety and compliance: Safety is obviously a top priority for certified tree surgeons. They’re trained in the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), safe climbing techniques, and the operation of specialised machinery. On top of that, qualified tree surgeons adhere to industry standards and local regulations, ensuring that all work is compliant with legal requirements. (This is all before mentioning that they’re insured in case of any accidents, which sets them apart from individuals!)

Enhance the value and beauty of your property: This is often forgotten about – but one advantage of hiring a proper tree care professional is that they’ll work hard to enhance the beauty of your property. Most expert tree surgeons will ensure that trees are maintained in a way that promotes growth and complements the natural environment. They’ll do everything from thinning canopies for light preservation, to providing you with tailor-made advice to get the most out of your garden.

Conclusion

If you are in any doubt about what a tree surgeon can do for you, feel free to consult our local tree care specialists for advice.

Want to learn more about us? Get in touch with the team.

About Trees offers a professional tree care service for homes and businesses all around Kent including Whitstable, Maidstone, Tunbridge Wells and many more.

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Cable Bracing: What It Is and Why It Matters to Kent Homeowners