The Ice Storm “Hit List”: Common Trees That Can’t Handle the Weight of Winter in Washtenaw County, MI
April 13, 2026
Key Takeaways Species Vulnerability: Certain trees common to Michigan have wood densities and branch structures that make them “magnets” for ice damage. The Weight Factor: A 1/4-inch coating of ice can add hundreds of pounds of weight to a tree’s canopy, leading to catastrophic “shattering.” Proactive Pruning: Managing the “wind sail” and weight distribution of […]
Emergency Guide: What to Do When a Tree Hits Your Roof or Power Lines
April 13, 2026
Critical Safety Briefing Evacuate Immediately: If a tree has impacted the roof or walls, the structural integrity of the home is compromised. Exit the building at once. Electrical Danger: If a tree is touching a power line, assume the tree, the surrounding ground, and your home’s gutters/siding are energized. Stay back at least 35 feet. […]
The Pre-Storm Checklist: 5 Things Every Homeowner Should Check Before Storm Season
April 13, 2026
Key Takeaways Proactive Defense: Regular maintenance before the clouds gather can prevent thousands of dollars in emergency repairs. Water Management: Ensuring gutters, downspouts, and sump pumps are functional is the best way to prevent basement flooding. Structural Integrity: Small gaps in windows or loose shingles are the primary entry points for wind and water during […]
The Ash Borer Aftermath: Identifying Dangerous “Zombie Trees” Before the Next High Wind Event
April 13, 2026
Key Takeaways The “Zombie” Risk: Standing dead Ash trees become incredibly brittle and can “shatter” during high winds or ice storms. Warning Signs: Look for crown dieback, “blonding” of bark from woodpeckers, and D-shaped exit holes. Urgency: Because Ash wood rots quickly, these trees become more dangerous and expensive to remove the longer they stand. […]
Storm-Damaged Trees in Ann Arbor, Michigan: What to Do Next
June 12, 2025
When Storm Winds Leave Your Trees Damaged: An Ann Arbor Homeowner’s Guide Last year, a massive summer thunderstorm swept through Washtenaw County, leaving nearly 40,000 Ann Arbor residents without power and countless trees damaged or downed. If you’ve lived here long enough, you know our beautiful tree canopy sometimes takes a beating from Michigan’s unpredictable […]
