Wayne's Tree Service Urges Proactive Tree Care Ahead of Severe Storm Season

As the peak of storm season approaches, Wayne's Tree Service, a family-operated and veteran-owned company based in Somerville, New Jersey, is urging homeowners across Somerset, Hunterdon, Middlesex, and Union counties to have mature trees inspected for potential hazards. The recommendation follows a July marked by severe weather that caused widespread damage and power outages.

On July 4, thunderstorms with gusts near 70 miles per hour left roughly 249,000 New Jersey customers without power. The National Weather Service recorded numerous downed trees in Hunterdon and Somerset counties. Later, on July 21, the agency confirmed four tornadoes touched down elsewhere in the state. These events highlight the vulnerability of trees and the importance of proactive care.

Peter Ahlert, owner of Wayne's Tree Service and a veteran, noted, "Most of the trees our crews removed in July were already compromised before the wind ever arrived. Storms rarely take a healthy tree. They find the weak one." This insight underscores the need for early detection and intervention.

The company identifies several warning signs that homeowners can spot from the ground. These include soil lifting or cracking at the base of a trunk, which may indicate root plate movement; two trunks joined in a narrow V-shape, a common failure point in mature maples and oaks; dead limbs hanging over roofs, driveways, or play areas; fungal growth at the root flare; and a canopy that has noticeably thinned since the previous summer.

Addressing these issues before a storm can prevent property damage, personal injury, and costly emergency removals. Wayne's Tree Service also reminds property owners that tree removal in New Jersey is regulated at the municipal level. Most Central Jersey towns require a permit to remove trees above a certain trunk diameter, though hazardous trees are often exempt with proper documentation. Homeowners are encouraged to confirm local regulations before scheduling any work.

By taking proactive steps, residents can protect their homes and families. Wayne's Tree Service, which has been operating since 1993, offers free estimates and a 24-hour emergency line for storm-related issues. The company is fully licensed and insured, holding NJ Licensed Tree Care Operator No. 565 and NJ Tree Expert No. 806860. With the storm season intensifying, early assessment and maintenance are essential for safeguarding properties and ensuring community resilience.