When trees cannot be fully assessed by visual means and internal wood decay is suspected it is normally prudent to carry out specialist tree decay tests.

Using either the ‘Resistograph’ decay detection drill or Sonic Tomograph we can assess internal wood decay

The ‘Resistograph’ is a highly versatile piece of equipment which measures the strength of the wood by its resistance to drilling. It can be used in a variety of situations, including in the crown of a tree, at any height on the main stem or below ground as part of root investigations.

The Sonic Tomograph is more limited in its application although it does provide very detailed information in the form of a two dimensional coloured image representing the inside of the tree. This equipment is generally used on large or particularly important specimen trees. (In certain circumstances the ideal option is to use both pieces of equipment).

“A client of ours was very concerned when two large fungal brackets were found on a 200+ year old tree in the garden. This is a mature beech tree with the two large fungal brackets close to the base. Establishing the extent of the internal decay was crucial in order to come to a management decision. It is our purpose to always protect and retain landmark trees like this, wherever possible, so using the specialist equipment here was invaluable.”