Cabling and Bracing

Tree Cabling Services

Kingston Tree Service uses cable and bracing methods to give additional stability to trees that have already partially failed or show characteristics making them likely to fail.

Static systems keep trees rigid and prevent movement to reduce the likelihood of failure, while dynamic systems encourage tree movement and allow the tree to make up for its structural weakness. An invasive system is where the hardware is placed inside the tree’s wood while a non-invasive system uses a secure attachment method.

Cable and bracing systems are most often used when the tree is not stable enough to support its own weight and is at risk of toppling over. These systems can be used to increase the stability of a single branch, multiple branches, or the entire tree. Depending on the size and age of the tree, each system will have different strengths and weaknesses. If the tree is very large, it may not be practical to use cable and bracing systems.

Static Tree Bracing Systems

A static system is one in which a cable or bracing is permanently installed into the tree’s wood. These systems are commonly used on younger trees that show characteristics that are prone to failure, such as weak wood, poor soil conditions, or improper root development. Static systems are typically installed by a certified arborist.

Tree Cable and Bracing

This system is installed through the trunk or larger branches by using steel cables or a combination of steel cables and wood braces. This system will confine movement of the tree and reduce the amount of bending and twisting it is able to perform. The cables and/or braces are attached to the tree with bolts or other fasteners.

Tree Brace Only

This system uses a combination of a wood brace and cables. The installation of this system is done by first drilling several holes into the trunk or larger branches of the tree. The holes are then used to bolt the cables and brace together. This system is used to increase stability by holding the tree rigid.

Dynamic tree cabling

Dynamic systems are in place to allow the tree to bend and sway in response to changes in the environment and external forces. These system are installed by an arborist using a combination of wood and cables. They provide support to trees that are not strong enough to support their own weight. The strength of a tree is based on the amount of wood it has, its density, the cross-sectional area, and the strength of the branches. The goal of these systems is to provide support to the weakest parts of the tree.

These systems can be used together or separately depending on the needs of the situation. One must have sufficient knowledge about trees, their defence mechanisms, stress levels, and physics to install these systems properly.