Emergency & Storm Work
Windblown TreeRemoval AcrossStafford & Staffordshire.
A tree blown over by wind is unstable, dangerous and unpredictable. We dismantle, clear and remove safely — protecting people, property and the surrounding ground.
✓ Same-day response · Root-plate trained crew · £5m insured
What is Windblown Tree Removal?
Windblown trees — those uprooted or partially uprooted by wind — are amongst the most dangerous tree work scenarios. The root plate may have lifted but not fully detached, leaving the trunk under huge tension. Cut it wrong and the root plate snaps back into the hole, often catching the operator.
We approach every windblown tree with the same protocol: keep clear, stabilise where possible, cut from the safe side first, and only release tension once the trunk is supported. It's slow, deliberate and the only safe way to do it.
Most windblown trees can be cleared in a single visit. Larger specimens or those near structures may require sectional dismantling first, then root-ball removal as a separate stage.
Who It's For
- Anyone with a tree blown over by storm winds
- Insurance assessors documenting wind damage
- Farms and estates with multiple trees down
- Highways needing roadside windblown clearance
When It's Needed
- Tree has fallen and is blocking access or damaging property
- Tree is leaning at over 15° from vertical after wind
- Root plate is visibly lifted
- Snapped trunk with hangers caught in adjacent canopy
What Happens If You Leave It
Untrained operators are killed every year by windblown trees. The 'spring back' from a released root plate carries enough force to crush a vehicle. The HSE has issued specific safety alerts on this exact scenario — it's not theoretical.
Leaving a leaning tree to 'see what happens' usually means it falls in the next gust, often onto something more expensive than it was originally near. Quick, controlled removal is always cheaper than insurance excess.
Our 5-Step Process
Free Site Inspection
We visit, listen and assess access, hazards and surrounding structures before quoting a single penny.
Written Diagnosis & Quote
You get a clear scope of works, fixed price and method statement — usually within 24 hours of the visit.
Scheduled Visit
We agree a date that suits you, confirm the day before and arrive on time with the right kit and crew.
Safe Execution
Risk assessments and permits handled. Roping, rigging and cutting carried out to NPTC and BS 3998 standards.
Clearance & Sign-Off
All arisings removed (or chipped/logged for you), site swept clean, photos sent and invoice issued.
Why Choose RJ Hutchinson
Tension-Cutting Trained
We know how trees behave under load — cuts in the right place, in the right order.
Root-Plate Specialists
Stabilisation, controlled release, safe removal of root mass.
Same-Day Response
Most windblown jobs cleared within 24–48 hours of call.
Property Protection
Adjacent fences, sheds and structures protected during dismantling.
Full Disposal
Tree, root plate and brash all removed — site left ready for replanting or returfing.
Insurance-Ready
Photos and scope provided for any claim.
Windblown Tree Removal: The Full Detail
Why Trees Windblow
Windblow happens when wind load exceeds root anchorage. Common contributing factors: saturated soil (autumn/winter); shallow rooting (especially conifers and trees on shallow soils); recent root damage from groundworks; previously failed crowns now top-heavy; and exposure following clearance of adjacent trees.
Once a tree has windblown, the whole bay of root anchorage is compromised. Even if it's 'still standing' at an angle, it's far weaker than before and almost always needs removal rather than righting.
Root-Plate & Hole Reinstatement
After tree removal, the root plate is cut up (or removed whole if access allows) and the hole back-filled with the existing soil and any imported topsoil. We can returf, reseed or simply reinstate to a level finish.
Every job is covered by £5m Public Liability Insurance and carried out under method statements and risk assessments tailored to your site.
Windblown Tree Removal — Frequently Asked Questions
Is a leaning tree safe to leave?+
Anything more than 15° off vertical after a storm should be removed — root anchorage is compromised.
How quickly can you respond?+
Same day for active hazards; within 48 hours for routine windblow clearance.
Can you save the tree?+
Almost never — windblown root anchorage doesn't recover. Removal is usually the only option.
How much does it cost?+
Typically £400–£2,000 for domestic windblow including root-plate clearance.
Will my insurance pay?+
Most buildings policies cover storm damage; we supply documentation.
What about the hole left behind?+
We back-fill and reinstate to ground level; turfing or seeding optional.
Can you replace the tree?+
Yes — replanting available from £150 per tree, suitable species and size for the location.
Do you handle hangers in adjacent trees?+
Yes — these are often more dangerous than the main fall and are dealt with as part of the job.
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Ready For a Free Quote on Windblown Tree Removal?
Free site visit, fixed-price written quote, no pressure. Call directly or send a few details — most quotes back within 24 hours.