Tree Cabling

There are two types of cabling systems for trees: static and dynamic.

Static Cabling System

A static cabling system is invasive, as it involves drilling into the tree in order to install hardware into the trunk or limbs which will diminish the tree's ability to flex and bend with the wind. This cabling system is very labor extensive and time consuming, which usually results in higher installation costs.

Dynamic Cabling System

A dynamic cabling system is non-invasive, i.e. there is no drilling into the tree. This type of system allows the tree to flex freely in the wind and still have full mobility.

Dynamic cabling systems are only intended as supplemental structural support systems for healthy trees deemed sustainable and worth preserving. This type of system, when properly installed,  should allow for at least 10 years of tree growth.

All cabling systems require regular inspections.

Before any cabling system is installed in a tree, proper pruning should be done first, since it reduces the weight of the limbs that are to be cabled. Proper pruning also eliminates limbs or branches that would interfere with the overall operation of the installation itself.

When Cabling installations require that the tree be climbed, it should only be climbed without spikes.

Trees which are possible candidates for cabling:

• Trees with co-dominant stems
• Trees with split crotches
• Limbs posing a threat to structures
• Limbs or branches bearing excessive weight 
• Trees of monetary value or historical significance

If a tree has been deemed hazardous, a cabling system will not make the tree safe.