The Hidden Dangers of Overhanging Trees — And Why You Should Act Now

Mike Doxon
Aug 10
3 min read

By SpiderMonkey Tree Services

If you’ve ever looked out your window and noticed a big branch swaying above your home, garage, or driveway, you’ve probably wondered, “Is that safe?”The truth is — overhanging trees can be beautiful, but they can also be ticking time bombs. When storms, high winds, or even the weight of the branch itself causes failure, the damage can be catastrophic.

At SpiderMonkey Tree Services, we specialize in safely removing and trimming trees that hang over houses, power lines, and other hard-to-reach areas. Here’s what you need to know before those branches cause a problem.

1. Why Overhanging Trees Are Riskier Than You Think

A tree that’s leaning over your property isn’t automatically dangerous — but it’s a situation worth keeping an eye on. Here’s why:

Storm Damage: High winds, snow, or ice can snap large branches without warning.
Hidden Weakness: Even healthy-looking branches may be rotting from the inside due to fungus, insects, or internal cracks.
Extra Weight: Heavy limbs put stress on the trunk, increasing the chance of failure.
Roof & Gutter Damage: Constant contact with shingles can wear them down and lead to leaks.

Pro Tip: The bigger the branch, the more force it has when it falls. A limb just 8 inches in diameter can punch through a roof with surprising ease.

2. Warning Signs Your Overhanging Tree Might Be in Trouble

Not all hazards are obvious. A professional arborist can spot trouble early, but here are a few signs homeowners can watch for:

Cracks or splits where the branch meets the trunk.
Fungal growth at the base of the tree or along branches.
Dead or leafless sections while the rest of the tree is green.
Bark peeling away or missing entirely.
Fresh sawdust-like material at the base (could indicate pests).

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to schedule an inspection before a storm forces the issue.

3. Why DIY Tree Removal Is a Bad Idea

We get it — cutting off a branch might seem simple. But with overhanging trees, especially ones near homes or power lines, the risks multiply fast:

Unpredictable Falls: Gravity doesn’t always pull a branch the way you expect.
Equipment Danger: Chainsaws kick back, ropes snap, and ladders shift.
High-Voltage Risk: If a branch contacts a power line, the result can be fatal.

That’s why SpiderMonkey Tree Services uses specialized climbing gear, rigging systems, and precision lowering techniques to make sure the job is done without damage to your home, your yard, or your safety.

4. How SpiderMonkey Handles Overhanging Tree Work

When we arrive for a job, our process is all about safety, precision, and protecting your property:

Inspection & Planning – We assess tree health, branch weight, and drop zones.
Rigging Setup – Using ropes, pulleys, and friction devices to control every cut.
Sectional Removal – Cutting the tree in manageable pieces instead of letting it fall all at once.
Safe Lowering – Gently lowering limbs to the ground to avoid damage.
Full Cleanup – Removing debris so your property looks better than when we arrived.

This is where our specialty in tight drop zones and high-risk removals really shines.

5. Waiting Can Cost You More

Tree problems don’t fix themselves — and the longer you wait, the more dangerous (and expensive) they can become. Here’s why acting now is smarter:

Storm season is unpredictable — you can’t schedule the next windstorm.
Tree damage spreads — rot or pests will continue to weaken the structure.
Insurance may not cover negligence — if you knew a tree was dangerous and didn’t act, you could be liable for repairs.

6. Protect Your Home Today

If you’ve got an overhanging tree that worries you, now’s the time to get it checked.At SpiderMonkey Tree Services, we offer:

Prompt inspections — often within 24–48 hours.
Financing options — making it easier to act before disaster strikes.
Specialized expertise — in overhanging, hard-to-access, and dangerous tree removals.

📞 Call us today at [Your Phone Number] or 📩 request a free estimate online to keep your home, family, and property safe.

SpiderMonkey Tree Services — Precision. Safety. Peace of Mind.