As summer rolls in, so do the storms — and Aussie homeowners know just how wild they can get. Between sudden downpours, fierce winds, and the occasional hail, it’s no surprise that tree damage is one of the biggest risks during storm season. Those towering gums and backyard favourites that provide shade all year round can quickly become hazards if they’re not properly maintained.
That’s where tree pruning comes in. It’s not just about keeping your garden tidy — it’s about protecting your home, your family, and even your neighbours from potential disaster. Let’s talk about why tree pruning is a must before storm season, what it involves, and how a professional arborist (or tree lopper) can make all the difference.
When the winds pick up, even healthy trees can become dangerous. Loose or overgrown branches may snap and fall, hitting roofs, fences, powerlines, or cars. In some cases, an unbalanced tree can even topple over completely if the ground becomes waterlogged after heavy rain.
Here’s why getting ahead with tree pruning before storm season starts is so important:
Prevents property damage: Dead or weak branches are the first to go in a storm. Removing them reduces the chance of falling debris damaging your home or injuring someone.
Improves tree health: Pruning encourages healthy growth and allows trees to withstand harsh weather better. Think of it as a tune-up before the big test.
Stops interference with powerlines: Branches that grow too close to powerlines can cause blackouts or sparks when hit by wind or rain.
Protects people and pets: A falling branch can do serious harm. Pruning eliminates potential risks hanging over driveways, decks, or outdoor play areas.
Reduces cleanup later: A bit of maintenance now saves you from a mountain of storm debris later.
It’s one of those home maintenance tasks that often gets pushed aside — until it’s too late. But a quick inspection and prune could save you thousands in repairs (and a lot of stress) when the storms hit.
Tree pruning might sound simple, but there’s more to it than grabbing a saw and cutting branches at random. Done incorrectly, it can actually harm your tree — or worse, create new hazards.
Here’s what proper pruning involves:
Assessment: A qualified arborist or tree lopper starts by assessing the overall health of the tree. They’ll look for dead, diseased, or overgrown branches and identify any structural weaknesses.
Crown thinning: This process removes select branches to reduce wind resistance. A well-thinned canopy allows air to flow through the tree more easily, reducing the likelihood of it being uprooted in strong winds.
Crown lifting: Lower branches that hang too close to structures, fences, or footpaths are trimmed back to provide clearance and prevent damage.
Deadwood removal: Any dead or decaying branches are cut off to prevent them from snapping during storms.
Shaping and balance: The tree is pruned for a stable, balanced structure. This not only improves its resilience but also keeps it looking neat and natural.
A professional will know exactly where and how much to cut without compromising the tree’s health. Over-pruning can stress a tree, making it vulnerable to pests and disease — which is the last thing you want before storm season.
Sure, you might be tempted to tackle tree pruning yourself, especially if it’s just a few branches. But when you’re dealing with tall trees or branches hanging near powerlines, the risks can quickly outweigh the savings.
Here’s why hiring a professional makes sense:
Safety first: Tree pruning often involves ladders, saws, and heavy branches — not exactly beginner-friendly gear. Professionals have the right equipment and training to get the job done safely.
Knowledge of tree species: Not all trees respond the same way to pruning. An experienced arborist understands local Australian species and how to prune them without causing long-term damage.
Insurance coverage: If an accident happens during a DIY attempt, you might be liable for any resulting damage. Professionals are insured, meaning you’re covered if something goes wrong.
Proper disposal: A tree lopper can handle green waste removal too, saving you a trip to the tip (and a messy backyard).
It’s one of those jobs where peace of mind is well worth the call-out fee.
Ideally, you’ll want to have your trees inspected and pruned before storm season hits — typically late spring to early summer, depending on your location. That way, your property is prepared before the first major storm rolls through.
If your trees haven’t been checked in a few years, now’s the time to act. You’ll also want to schedule pruning if you notice:
Branches growing over your roof or close to windows
Deadwood or cracked limbs
Trees leaning more than usual
Excessive leaf drop or signs of disease
Even if everything looks fine at a glance, a professional inspection can uncover hidden issues. Many homeowners don’t realise their trees are at risk until it’s too late.
You don’t need to spend hours hunting for a reliable arborist. With ServiceSeeking.com.au, you can get free quotes from local tree loppers and arborists in just minutes. Simply post your job, compare prices and reviews, and choose the right tradie for your needs and budget.
When hiring, make sure to:
Check qualifications: Look for arborists with recognised certifications (like AQF Level 3 in Arboriculture).
Ask about insurance: Ensure they have public liability and workers’ compensation cover.
Get multiple quotes: Prices can vary based on the size and type of work, so comparing helps you get the best value.
The platform makes this easy — you can see verified reviews, photos of past jobs, and even chat directly with tradies before booking.
Storms in Australia can be unpredictable and unforgiving. A calm day can quickly turn into a downpour with gale-force winds — and if your trees aren’t ready, the damage can be devastating.
Tree pruning isn’t just another garden chore; it’s a key part of storm preparation that keeps your home and loved ones safe. By investing a little time and care now, you’ll save yourself the stress (and cost) of emergency call-outs later.
So before the storm clouds roll in, take a walk around your yard. If anything looks overgrown, unsteady, or a little too close for comfort, it’s time to bring in a pro.
Head to ServiceSeeking.com.au today to find trusted local arborists and tree loppers who can get your property storm-ready — safely, efficiently, and without breaking the bank.