Tree Support Systems 

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Trustworthy Tree Support Systems for Lasting Strength

Cabling and bracing are vital techniques we use to support trees with weak or compromised branches and trunks. These methods involve carefully installing cables or braces to reinforce a tree's structure, preventing it from splitting or collapsing under stress from storms, high winds, or the sheer weight of heavy foliage. Because these procedures are intricate and require a deep understanding of tree dynamics, they should always be carried out by skilled arborists. Arbor Masters is committed to ensuring every installation is done with utmost precision and safety, using tools and materials that comply with ANSI A300 standards to maintain the health and stability of your trees.

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“I Would Hire Arbor Masters for Any Tree Work.”

"Arbor Masters was professional and took precautions to not damage yard with equipment. After they were done, the yard showed no visible sign of the equipment having been there. I would hire Arbor Masters for any tree work that needs to be done."

Kevin Pullum

Our Tree Support Systems

Tree support systems help bolster a tree’s weak sections to survive a storm or other major weather event. Trees may need cabling and bracing if they weren’t properly pruned in the past or if a young tree wasn’t trained on the proper way to grow. Cabling can be a stand-alone service, while bracing is often used in conjunction with cabling to support trees.

Cabling

Cabling involves installing high-tension static steel cables or high-strength dynamic braided nylon cables to support weak branch or stem unions.

An arborist from Arbormasters holding a cable on a bucket truck for tree cabling.
Bracing

Bracing involves installing a steel rod in a tree, usually through a weak branch or stem union. Arborists use bracing in conjunction with cabling to provide additional support.

An arborist from Arbormasters on a bucket truck ready to brace a tree.
An arborist from Arbormasters cabling a tree while on a white bucket truck.

Why Trust Arbor Masters with Your Tree Cabling and Bracing 

While many companies may offer tree cabling and bracing, not all of them meet the proper standards for caring for your trees. When you hire Arbor Masters, you are getting tree work done by experts. Some of the reasons our customers love us include:

Meeting ANSI A300 Standards 

The International Society of Arboriculture created the ANSI A300 standards to guide tree care companies when working on trees. We follow all ANSI A300 standards, using the appropriate equipment for cabling and bracing, including eye bolts, dead-end grips, and thimbles.  

We Want What’s Best for Trees

We’re not in the business of doing what’s best for our bottom line; we want what’s best for trees. What we suggest is going to be what we would do for trees on our own properties, so you can trust our advice and recommendations to be coming from a place of care.  

We Employ ISA Certified Arborists 

ISA Certified Arborists are tree experts who continue to train and research new developments in arboriculture. We employ ISA Certified Arborists at each of our branches to serve as experts who provide high-quality advice and tree care.  

Certified and Accredited Tree Care Professionals

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ISA On Staff

Our Cabling and Bracing Process

While many people have heard of tree removal and pruning, they may not be aware that you can add structural support to trees, too. We’ve been perfecting our processes for supporting weak trees since we founded Arbor Masters in 1960.

Here’s what to expect when you hire us:

Arbor Masters Tree crew installing cables for support on a tree in Kansas City, MO
  • 1

    Initial Consultation 

    One of our arborists will provide a consultation to you on your tree and determining if cabling and bracing can help.  

  • 2

    Provide a Quote 

    After we determine the project scope, we will provide you with a quote of the operational process and cost.

  • 3

    Finalize a Plan

    When you accept the quote, we'll finalize our plan for effectively cabling and/or bracing your tree.

  • 4

    Corrective Pruning

    We may suggest corrective pruning or branch removal if a section of the tree is too weak for structural support.

  • 5

    Cabling and Bracing

    Our tree experts will properly install any necessary cables or braces following ANSI A300 standards.

A big tree with heavy limbs that need cabling.

When to Consider Cabling and Bracing for Your Trees 

It isn’t always obvious when a tree may need cables and braces to protect it from the elements and further damage. Some instances where we may suggest cabling and bracing include:

Trees with Multiple Trunks 

Cabling and bracing can keep trees that have multiple trunks together and prevent them from splitting. 

Trees with Heavy Limbs 

Trees with heavy limbs are more likely to break off during a storm. We can help to support the limbs and prevent them from breaking. 

Trees that Have Been Damaged from Storms

If a tree has been damaged by a storm, cabling and bracing can help to prevent further damage and keep the tree upright. 

Trees Near Structure or High-Traffic Areas 

Structural support will reduce the risk of trees falling near structures or high-traffic areas.

Cabling and Bracing is Not a Permanent Answer 

Trees will keep growing after you install cables and braces, and this expansion will make your hardware less effective over time. The wires and braces may also wear down due to environmental wear and tear.

We recommend having an arborist inspect your cabling and bracing setup every year to ensure it is still providing structural integrity to the tree and that nothing needs to be replaced.

Partner with Our Expert Arborists

If you have a weak tree, it may not be too late to save it with our cabling and bracing. Call us today at 800-256-4193 to request a free quote and learn more about the benefits to tree structural support.

Schedule a Consultation

How to Prepare for Your Cabling and Bracing Appointment 

We’ll take care of the hard part on the day of your appointment for cabling and bracing, but there are some things you can do to help us when the day comes. Some of the things we ask before we arrive are:

  • Clean up around the tree: Clear away any lawn decorations, furniture, or other objects near the tree to prevent damage and ensure a safe working environment for our team. 

  • Keep all pets inside: We love pets, but it’s best to keep them inside while we’re working. We also ask you to please clean up any pet waste in your yard prior to our arrival. 

  • Clearly mark the tree: If you won’t be home for the appointment, it’s no big deal. But please make sure we know what tree to look at! 

  • Leave any gates unlocked: If you have a fence around your yard, leave the gate unlocked so we can easily get in and out.  

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“Super Professional and Great Communication.”

"The crew arrived on time, super professional and communicated great with not only us but the neighbors as needed. They were very affordable and did a great job on our oak tree. They left the backyard cleaner that it had been when they arrived and even took care of a couple branches that had come down the day before. Will definitely call again for future tree needs."

Jessica Stepka

The Arbor Masters Service Area 

We’ve expanded since founding the company in 1960, but we’ve always maintained our commitment to providing the best tree care possible. We now serve clients in Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Iowa, and Texas. See our full list of locations below.

Advantage - Cedar Rapids

Oklahoma City

Tulsa

Wichita

Davenport

Fort Worth

Shawnee

Des Moines

Raytown

Advantage - Davenport

View All Locations

FAQs About Cabling and Bracing 

Structural support involves installing a cable or steel rod in a tree to strengthen and stabilize a tree. This is typically only needed when a tree is showing signs of damage or structural issues. 

Structural support can save some trees, but not all. We’ll tell you during the initial consultation if we believe cabling and bracing can help or if removal is the best option for your trees. 

You likely won’t even be able to see the cables and braces in your trees, especially when they are fully leafed out. 

Removing a tree should only be done when there is nothing to be done to save it. Cabling and bracing can save a tree and allow it to provide benefits to your yard for years to come.  

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“You Will Not Be Disappointed.”

"Arbor Masters is a great company that takes care of their employees. If you need any tree care, don’t hesitate to reach out. No matter the job, big or small, you will not be disappointed in the quality of work and professionalism they have to offer."

Caleb Tapia

Learn More About Tree Structural Support 

Want to learn more about supporting your trees and keeping them resistant to further storm damage? Our Certified Arborists have written articles on many aspects of tree care for you to increase your knowledge of arboriculture. Learn more below:

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Fall season in MO.

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Discover the diverse world of evergreen trees – from broadleaf to needle varieties. Learn how these resilient trees adorn landscapes and enrich ecosystems. Get expert insights on choosing, nurturing and caring for evergreens.
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Winter Tree Care: Debunking the Myth of Trees Not Needing Water

Uncover the misconception that trees don't need water in winter with our expert insights. Dive into the necessity of winter tree hydration to equip your trees to endure the cold and thrive in challenging conditions. Learn the signs of dehydration, optimal watering techniques, and the benefits of proper winter tree care. Trust our certified arborists' guidance for resilient, flourishing trees year-round.
WIthering tree on a winter day in Kansas City.
Read All Our Articles

Schedule Your Tree Structural Support Today

When your trees need structural support, there’s no time to waste. Call the team at Arbor Masters today at 800-256-4193 or request a quote online.

Schedule a Consultation