Hanging a birdhouse from a tree or building a treehouse requires nails or screws for its safety and integrity.
Up Next: Tips For Safely Hanging A Swing From Your Tree
But can you put a screw or nail safely into your tree? Yes, but there are some conditions.
Putting In Nails Or Screws Will Create A Wound
Putting a nail or screw into a tree will create a small wound, but nothing a strong, healthy tree can’t handle. The tree should compartmentalize and heal the wound around the object.
Do Not Put Them Into Trees That Are Weak, Damaged, Or Young
When installing a nail or a screw into a tree, avoid putting them into weak, damaged, or young trees. This will put additional stress on the tree that will make it more vulnerable to disease and pests.
When installing anything on a tree that requires screws or nails, the rule of thumb is never to introduce more problems to an already stressed tree.
Choose Nails Or Screws That Will Not Rust Or Become Hidden
If you must use a nail or screw in a tree, choose one that will not rust, such as stainless steel. Avoid putting them too deep inside the tree to become hidden, which can be a hazard later on if the tree is to be cut down. A chainsaw can hit the metal and bounce off.
Remember to plan where you want to drill beforehand carefully. This will help you avoid becoming “drill happy” and putting too many unnecessary holes in the tree. These holes can become accessible entryways for pests.
Get The Tree Inspected Before Inserting Screws Or Nails
Before installing anything on your trees, get the tree inspected by an ISA-certified arborist at Hansen’s Tree Service. Tree inspections and risk assessments evaluate a tree for:
· Diseases
· Structural integrity
· Maintenance requirements
· Hazardous limbs
And more!
Your arborist will also recommend that you avoid trees with thin bark. This added weight can tear the bark and lead to open wounds.