Decay detection techniques and services

Decay can lead to partial or complete failure of trees

Decay detection techniques and services

Decay detection can be a very useful procedure that can help us in assessing the structural condition of trees and other wooden structures. By using devices such as the IML-resistograph, Picus tomograph, fractometer and processes such as light microscopy, we can with a fair degree of accuracy, map the extent and levels of wood degradation, due to decay.
Armed with this information, along with our extensive experience and knowledge of host trees responses, their associated pathogens and colonisation strategies, we can make an assessment on the structural integrity of the tree or wooden structure in question and formulate an appropriate management strategy.

This often can save a tree from unnecessary removal, due to an uninformed risk management decision. It can also condemn trees that seem to possess no great abnormalities. Either way, these decay detection techniques provide an aid in assessing the status quo of decay present in trees.

The service we provide in this area, is the accurate mapping/assessing of the extent, nature and level of tissue degradation caused by decay, by using any of the devices and processes mentioned above. The data is analyzed and recorded and is presented in report form, with appropriate recommendations, based on tree species and pathogen/s identified.

Although decay detection techniques have traditionally been used primarily in arboricultural situations, the mapping and assessing of decay in wood, has uses in the construction industry. When being used to determine the integrity of degraded wooden structures, we can present to the structural engineers, quantifiable levels of deterioration of wood strength, which enable them to more accurately assess the structure concerned and produce appropriate recommendations.