Trim trees and secure yard debris sources

Remove dead branches, thin dense canopies, and secure or store loose outdoor items before hurricane season begins. Flying debris causes more property damage than wind alone in most hurricanes.

Why It Works

Dead wood and dense, top-heavy canopies act as sails that catch wind and snap. A single large branch traveling at 100 mph generates thousands of pounds of impact force — enough to penetrate roofing, siding, and windows. Spring trimming gives trees the growing season to heal cuts.

Steps

1. Remove deadwood and crossing branches from all trees within falling distance of structures
2. Thin canopies by 15-25% to reduce wind resistance — focus on interior branches, not tips
3. Cut back trees touching the roof to at least 6 feet of clearance
4. Inventory loose items: patio furniture, grills, planters, trampolines — plan storage locations

Tips

• Hire an ISA-certified arborist ($300-$800 per large tree) for trees over 20 feet — improper cuts cause more damage
• Palm trees are naturally wind-resistant; focus trimming on hardwoods and pines
• Anchor items you cannot store with concrete screw-in auger stakes ($15-$25 each)