Does it Harm my Tree to Use Nails and Screws

12/25/2019

When you want to do an outdoor project, you may look to your trees as the place to begin. Though, you might be asking yourself, “does it harm trees to use nails and screws?”

Some trees are resilient enough to have a new accessory. Others, however, won’t be able to handle the change.

Read this article to find out if your tree’s an excellent candidate as well as get advice on how to safely use nails and screws in your tree.

Hammering a Nail or Drilling into a Tree
The fact is, hammering a nail or drilling into your tree will leave a wound. Though, if the job is done the correct way on the right tree, you can evade long-term, serious, harm.

To sustain the safety of your tree:

Be aware of the sort of screws and nails you use.
Don’t go crazy with the hammer. The more holes you make, the more you’ll stress your tree.
Bear in mind that some trees are better contenders than others.

Best Screws and Nails for Trees
The #1 thing you want to avoid is for a screw or nail in your tree to rust. That’s why it’s best to use aluminum, stainless steel, or any rust-proof screws or nails.

Best Location
The exact place you drill into isn’t going to make a huge difference. The health of your tree plays a critical role in the durability of your new hole.

Healthy trees are sturdy. When you drill into them with a screw or nail, they begin a process called compartmentalization. This means they’ll heal the area around the wound naturally, protecting the rest of the tree from possible diseases. For the best results, pick a strong, healthy tree. If you’re unsure if your tree is healthy, schedule a tree inspection with a York PA Tree arborist.

Trees to Avoid
Trees that are damaged and weak shouldn’t be poked with screws or nails. The hardware will go into the layer beneath the tree bark that’s accountable for transporting nutrients and water through the tree. Also, a new hole gives a new entryway for pests.

The bottom line is: don’t bring more problems to an already strained tree.