Best lawn care providers near Summit, PA

Dead trees are dangerous for several reasons. They are structurally compromised and prone to branch or trunk failure, which can pose a significant safety risk to people, vehicles, and nearby structures. Dead trees can also harbor pests like termites, which may spread to other trees or your home. If a tree died from a disease, it could spread the illness to healthy trees. Additionally, the dry wood is highly flammable, increasing fire risk.

Trees that provide a habitat to bats and an abundance of bugs—their main food source—will attract bats to your yard. Because the North American landscape has changed so much in recent years, bats have a harder time finding trees with cavities to shelter in. If your yard has a dead or dying tree with a lot of sun exposure, bats will likely be drawn to it because trees with those features are less common.

It’s unlikely your leaves are a hazard, especially if you get to them while they’re dry. However, a couple of rare risks exist. University studies suggest that decaying leaves can produce organochlorines, toxic pollutants similar to man-made PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), so avoid keeping them in an enclosed area.

Also, leaves and compost may cause the growth of fungi that can cause diseases like histoplasmosis and aspergillosis, as well as mold spores that are unhealthy for human lungs. Again, severe issues are rare, but those with compromised immune systems or allergies to mold should wear face masks when directly handling leaves.

You cannot put anything you want into a rented dumpster, as there are significant restrictions on certain items.

Generally allowed items include:

• Household Junk: Furniture, old linens, carpets, toys, small appliances, and excess trash.

• Construction & Yard Debris: Wood, yard debris, roofing materials, old finishes, and other construction waste.

Commonly prohibited items include:

• Hazardous Materials: Toxic waste, medical waste, dangerous chemicals, items with lead paint, and asbestos.

• Flammables: Gasoline, oil, and fuel.

• Specific Banned Items: Paint cans, electronics, batteries, tires, refrigerators, and hot water tanks.

Because rules can vary, you should always check with your specific dumpster rental company for their guidelines if you are unsure about an item.