Preparing Your Property for Storm Season

June 1 marks the official start of hurricane season in Florida, but any Central Florida homeowner knows that doesn't tell the whole story — afternoon storms can roll through and cause significant damage all summer long, long before any named storm arrives. The time to prepare your property is now, before the season gets into full swing. Here's a practical checklist for getting your yard and trees ready.

Start with a Tree Inspection

Walk your entire property and look at every tree with storm readiness in mind. The goal is to identify trees or branches that represent real risk before conditions force the issue. Look for dead branches anywhere in the canopy — these break in moderate winds, let alone a storm. Look for large branches that hang over your roof, your vehicle, your fence line, or your neighbor's property. Note any trees that appear to be leaning more than they should, or where the soil at the base looks disturbed or raised.

Pay particular attention to trees that are close to your home. The standard guidance is that any branch within 10 feet of your roof is a trimming priority. A limb that holds fine under normal conditions can become a projectile in 50 mph gusts — and the cleanup cost of a limb through a roof is orders of magnitude more than the cost of preventive trimming.

Prioritize These Trees for Professional Attention

Not all trees carry the same risk. Trees that have had significant root disturbance from recent construction, trees that have been previously topped or severely cut (creating lots of weak regrowth), and trees showing signs of disease or decay are your highest-priority items. Any tree that's partially dead should be evaluated immediately — a tree that's 50% dead has significantly reduced structural integrity throughout, not just in the dead sections.

Large oaks near structures deserve a professional assessment every few years regardless, but especially before storm season. Their size and weight mean a failure can be catastrophic. Have an experienced crew look at the major branch unions and the overall canopy structure to identify any concerns before the storms do it for you.

Beyond Trees: Other Property Considerations

• Remove or secure any debris, patio furniture, or loose items that could become projectiles
• Check gutters and downspouts — clogged gutters combined with heavy rain lead to water intrusion
• Look at large shrubs and hedges near your home and trim back anything that holds excessive wind load
• Know where your property's trees are in relation to underground utilities and overhead power lines
• Have a plan for storm debris cleanup, including who you'd call for emergency tree service

When to Call a Professional

Any tree work involving branches near power lines, large-diameter limbs, or trees over your home should always be handled by a licensed, insured professional. Storm preparation is time-sensitive — scheduling early means you get on the books before crews fill up as storm season peaks.

Fricke's Tree Service helps homeowners across Orlando, Winter Park, Sanford, Oviedo, and the surrounding area prepare their properties before storm season every year. Call us at (321) 240-5613 or schedule your storm prep estimate today.