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For Bradford pears, damage from storms is common, and if the trunk splits, it can pose a danger to people and surrounding structures. The best thing to do in that instance is to have the tree removed. If there’s only minor damage to the branches, pruning away the damaged parts is the first order of business. You may also want to consult a professional arborist to make sure the tree is healthy.

If you don’t cut down a dead, dying, or diseased tree, it can become a nesting place for pests like mosquitos, bees, beetles, wasps, fly larvae, and more. Some pests will live in the tree, while others will feed off the decaying wood. Unhealthy trees are also more likely to fall over, potentially injuring people and causing damage to your property.

Coverage varies quite a bit by policy, but most homeowners' insurance policies will cover $500 to $1,000 of the cost of removing a tree. Additionally, if your tree causes damage to your property, like your house, many policies will cover some or all of the costs to repair the damage, depending on why the tree fell.

There are several methods to hollow out a tree stump, and the best one depends on your tools, experience, and priorities. Common methods include using a chisel and hammer, a chainsaw, or burning.

• Chisel and Hammer: This is often considered the easiest approach for those with limited tools or experience, though it is the most time-consuming.

• Chainsaw: Using a chainsaw is the fastest method, but it comes with significant safety risks, especially for inexperienced users.

• Burning: This can be an effective method, but it is not recommended unless you can first drill holes into the stump. Without holes, the stump will be difficult to light and may not burn completely through.

A power drill with at least a ⅜-inch diameter bit can make the job quicker and easier, regardless of the primary method. While you can use a chisel or chainsaw without a drill, it will require more time and effort. Always wear protective goggles and thick gloves, as splinters are an inevitable risk.