Cabling and bracing are tree preservation techniques used to provide supplemental support to mature trees that have structural weaknesses. This process helps reduce the risk of limb or trunk failure, extending the life and beauty of your valuable trees.
🌳 What We Offer
- Structural Support Systems: Installation of high-strength cables and rigid braces to mechanically limit the movement of weak branches or multiple trunks.
- Preventative Care: Stabilization of trees with weak branch unions, splits, or other structural defects before a failure occurs, often caused by high winds or heavy ice.
- Mature Tree Preservation: A way to safely retain and enjoy mature, established trees that might otherwise need to be removed due to structural concerns.
⚠️ Do You Need Cabling or Bracing?
We recommend a structural assessment if your tree exhibits:
- V-shaped or Co-dominant Stems: Branches or trunks growing close together with included bark, which are highly prone to splitting.
- Large, Overextended Limbs: Branches that are unusually long and heavy, creating excessive leverage.
- Cracks or Splits: Visible structural damage on the trunk or in major limbs that compromises stability.
🛠️ Modern Cabling & Bracing Techniques
We employ industry-standard techniques and materials to ensure the most effective and least invasive support for your trees.
Cabling Systems (Flexible Support)
Cabling uses high-strength lines installed in the upper canopy to limit the movement of branches and prevent splits. The two main types are:
- Static Systems (Steel): Utilizes galvanized or extra-high-strength (EHS) steel cable and hardware like eye bolts, thimbles, and turnbuckles. This provides rigid, permanent support for limbs at high risk of failure.
- Dynamic Systems (Rope/Synthetic): Uses non-invasive, high-strength, rope-like materials (such as the Cobra Dynamic Bracing System). This system allows the tree to sway naturally and continue to build its own reaction wood, acting as a shock absorber. This is often preferred when flexibility and growth are priorities.
Bracing Systems (Rigid Support)
Bracing uses rigid metal rods to provide support at the point of the weak or split union, typically lower in the tree.
- Brace Rods: Long, threaded steel rods are installed through the weak or cracked wood and secured with washers and nuts.
- Through-Rods vs. Dead-End Braces: We typically use through-rods (secured on both sides) to provide maximum stability and strength.
- Combined Approach: Bracing rods are often accompanied by at least one cable higher up to provide comprehensive support and minimize the risk of the leaders spreading apart.
Ready to Preserve Your Tree?
Contact our third-generation family of arborists today for a detailed structural assessment.