How Often Should I Have My Trees Checked for Deadwood?

You've probably noticed that dead branch hanging over your driveway, the one that makes you nervous every time the wind picks up during monsoon season. You keep telling yourself you'll deal with it later, but then another storm rolls through Albuquerque and you're lying awake wondering if tonight's the night it comes crashing down.

Most trees should be inspected for deadwood at least once per year, ideally in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. However, trees in high-risk areas or those showing signs of disease may require inspection every 6 months.

A tree with a single dead branch

Why Regular Deadwood Inspections Matter in Albuquerque

Our semi-arid climate creates unique challenges for tree health. Between drought stress, bark beetle infestations, and those sudden monsoon thunderstorms with 60+ mph winds, Albuquerque trees face constant pressure. Deadwood doesn't just look bad—it's a genuine safety hazard waiting for the right gust of wind to become a problem.

Dead branches lose their structural integrity over time. What seems solid today might snap during tomorrow's windstorm, potentially damaging your roof, car, or worse, injuring someone in your yard.

The Annual Inspection Schedule

For most healthy, mature trees like cottonwoods, elms, or ash trees common in Northeast Heights neighborhoods, an annual inspection provides adequate protection. Late winter (February through early March) offers the best timing because:

• Trees are dormant, making deadwood easier to spot without leaves obscuring the view

• You can address problems before spring growth begins

• There's time to schedule removal before monsoon season starts in July

When You Need Trees Checked for Deadwood

Some situations demand inspection every six months:

After Major Weather Events Albuquerque's increasing extreme weather—those microbursts, hailstorms, and high winds—can create new deadwood overnight. Schedule an inspection within a few weeks after any severe storm, even if your annual checkup isn't due yet.

Trees Showing Disease Symptoms If you've noticed unusual leaf drop, bark peeling, or suspicious holes that might indicate bark beetle activity, don't wait for your scheduled inspection. These issues can spread rapidly, creating more deadwood than you'd expect.

Older or Declining Trees That majestic 50-year-old cottonwood might need extra attention. Trees over 40 years old or those showing general decline benefit from twice-yearly evaluations. The investment in extra inspections is far less than replacing a damaged roof.

Trees Near High-Traffic Areas Branches overhanging driveways, patios where kids play, or power lines warrant more frequent monitoring. The potential consequences of failure justify the extra vigilance.

What Professionals Look For During Inspections

A qualified arborist does more than just spot obviously dead branches. They examine:

• Branch attachment points for weak unions that could fail

• Signs of pest infestations like bark beetle galleries

• Root collar health and stability

• Overall canopy structure and weight distribution

• Disease indicators specific to New Mexico species

According to the USDA Forest Service, proper tree risk assessment requires systematic evaluation of multiple factors, not just visual deadwood identification.

Signs You Need an Immediate Inspection

Don't wait for your scheduled checkup if you notice:

• Large branches with no leaves during growing season

• Bark falling off in sheets

• Fungal growth on trunk or branches

• Sudden lean or listing to one side

• Cracks or splits in major limbs

• Heavy woodpecker activity (they're often after beetles)

These symptoms suggest deadwood is actively forming, and waiting could turn a manageable situation into an emergency.

The Cost of Skipping Inspections

Maria from the Northeast side learned this lesson the hard way. She postponed her tree inspection for two years, thinking her ash tree looked "fine enough." When a summer thunderstorm hit, a dead branch she hadn't noticed crashed through her car windshield. The $3,200 in damage far exceeded what two years of inspections would have cost.

Regular inspections typically run $100-$200, a small price compared to emergency removal after damage occurs—which can easily hit $1,500 or more.

DIY Visual Checks Between Professional Visits

While professional inspections are essential, you can do basic monitoring yourself:

Walk around each tree quarterly, looking up into the canopy. Dead branches often lack bark, appear brittle, and don't flex in the wind like living wood. If you spot concerning deadwood, don't attempt removal yourself—those branches are unpredictable and dangerous.

Creating Your Inspection Schedule

Start by mapping your trees and their last inspection dates. Set calendar reminders for:

• Annual inspections in February/March for healthy trees

• Six-month checks for high-risk or aging trees

• Post-storm evaluations after any significant weather event

Keep records of what was found and addressed. This history helps professionals track changes over time and catch developing problems early.

Don't Let Deadwood Become a Disaster

Your trees are investments in your property value and family's outdoor enjoyment. You need your trees checked for deadwood! Regular deadwood inspections protect both. That peaceful afternoon in your backyard shouldn't include worrying about whether dead branches will survive another windy day.

Ready to schedule your tree inspection? Don't wait until deadwood becomes a dangerous problem. Our tree experts understand Albuquerque's unique challenges and can evaluate your trees' health before issues escalate. Schedule a free estimate today by clicking the green button at the bottom of this page—we'll help you create a personalized inspection schedule that keeps your property safe year-round.