Cabling & Bracing
Support for the trees you love but worry about, installed high in the crown where it actually works.
How we approach cabling & bracing
Codominant stems, included bark and long heavy limbs are common in silver maples, elms and older lindens. Instead of removing a tree that still has decades of life, we can often install flexible synthetic cables or steel through-rods that share the load during wind and snow.
Every system is installed to ANSI A300 Part 3 standards, usually about two thirds of the way up between the crotch and the branch tips. We log installation dates and inspect systems every 12 to 24 months as part of our care plans.
Everything in a standard visit
- Climbing inspection of the union and hardware locations
- Dynamic synthetic cable or static steel systems
- Through-rod bracing for split or included-bark unions
- Light reduction pruning to lower end weight
- Installation tags and system records
- Scheduled re-inspection reminders
The process, step by step
- step 1
Inspect the union
A climber checks for cracks, decay and included bark at the weak point.
- step 2
Choose the system
We match dynamic or static support to the species, defect and target.
- step 3
Install and prune
Hardware goes in at the right height, often with light reduction pruning.
- step 4
Record and revisit
System details are logged and we check tension and wear on schedule.
Why it is worth doing right
What affects the price
Every tree is different. These four things move the number the most.
- Number of cables
- Most trees need one or two. Multi-stem trees may need a triangle system.
- Hardware type
- Through-rods and steel systems cost more than synthetic cable.
- Height of install
- Large trees need longer climbs and sometimes a lift.
- Pruning bundle
- Pairing with reduction pruning is common and saves a visit.
Related services
Trimming & Pruning
Structural and crown pruning that keeps mature trees strong, balanced and clear of your roof.
Learn more
Arborist Assessment
ISA-certified risk, health and pre-construction reports you can act on or share.
Learn more
Emergency Storm Response
A 24/7 storm line and on-call crews for trees on roofs, cars, driveways and lines.
Learn more
Cabling & Bracing questions
Can't find your answer? An arborist, not a call center, gets back to you the same business day.
See all questionsSynthetic systems wrap the limb without drilling. Steel systems use small holes that the tree compartmentalizes well when installed correctly.
Synthetic systems are rated for about 8 to 10 years and steel for longer. Regular inspections tell us when replacement is due.
Not always. If decay is advanced we will tell you honestly that removal is the safer choice.
Let's look at your trees together.
Free, itemized estimates from an ISA-certified arborist, usually within 5 business days.
4.9 from 1,284 reviews. Licensed and insured.