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It could be anywhere from weeks to years for a dead tree to fall. A dead tree falls based on its weight, how it leans, the state of its roots, the state of decay, and what local windstorms are like, among other factors. Since it’s hard to predict the fall’s timing, it’s important to cut down a dead tree quickly and avoid any unpleasant surprises.

Most experts recommend removing a tree that has sustained more than 25% loss in the limbs, trunk, or circumference of the bark. Doing an initial trimming of damaged and dangling branches, but then waiting a few days of monitoring to decide how much more you might need to cut can help you better assess the total damage to the tree. However, consulting a tree maintenance pro to make this determination the best course of action before removing a tree.

The average lifespan of an oak tree is 100 to 300 years, so long as it isn’t impacted by diseases like sudden oak death. Some species will last shorter or longer, depending on where you live.

The depth of tree roots depends on the species. Trees like oaks and maples can have root systems that grow down 20 feet or more. However, trees that grow in shallow soils will have roots that go only a few feet down. Research how your tree species grows in your climate area to estimate root depth.