Decay Testing

tree with decay in maitland

Quantifying Decay in Trees is Often Challenging

While major decay can sometimes be identified by sounding the tree with a dead blow hammer, this method can be unreliable and misleading.

For high-value trees, it’s crucial to precisely assess the extent and location of decay to make informed decisions. To achieve this, we utilise a highly specialised drill that measures feed force and resistance, providing accurate and reliable readings on decay levels within the wood.

Our Tool of Choice is the IML Resistograph, Imported from Germany, Which Provides Several Key Benefits to Our Clients

Accurate Assessment

The Resistograph provides precise measurements of decay within the wood, ensuring a reliable assessment of a tree's health. This accuracy helps clients make well-informed decisions regarding tree management.

Informed Decision-Making

By establishing baseline decay readings and monitoring changes over time, clients can understand the rate of decay and estimate the tree's useful life expectancy. This information is crucial for planning and prioritising tree maintenance or removal.

Risk Management

The tool helps assess whether the level of decay poses a risk of tree failure. Clients receive empirical data that guides them in developing strategies to mitigate risks, enhancing safety and preventing potential damage.

Tailored Solutions

With detailed decay information, clients benefit from customised management plans designed to address specific issues. This might include measures to reduce the risk of tree failure or, if necessary, plans for safe tree removal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Decay testing is a diagnostic process used to identify and assess the extent of decay or deterioration within a tree. This helps determine the tree’s structural integrity and overall health.

Decay testing is crucial for understanding the condition of a tree, especially for high-value or critical trees. It helps in making informed decisions about tree management, safety, and potential risks of failure.

Decay testing can be performed using various methods, including:

Visual Inspection

Initial assessment of visible signs of decay.

Sounding

Using a hammer to tap the tree and listen for sound differences that might indicate decay.

Drilling

Using specialised tools like the IML Resistograph to measure resistance and detect internal decay.

Assurance Trees use an IML Resistograph: A specialised drill that measures feed force and resistance to provide accurate decay readings.

When performed using advanced tools like the IML Resistograph, decay testing provides highly accurate readings. However, no method is perfect, and results should be interpreted by a qualified arborist in the context of other observations and factors.

The frequency of decay testing depends on the tree’s value, its location, and any observed issues. For high-value trees or those in critical locations, regular testing may be recommended to monitor changes over time.

Decay test data typically includes information on the extent and location of decay, the tree’s structural integrity, and recommendations for management or treatment based on the findings.

Decay testing helps identify potential risks, allowing for proactive management strategies to prevent tree failure, ensure safety, and make informed decisions about tree preservation or removal.

While decay testing can identify the presence and extent of decay, it may not always pinpoint the exact cause. Additional assessments or investigations may be needed to determine underlying issues.

Decay testing should be conducted by an AQF5 qualified arborist with experience and expertise in tree diagnostics and management.