Seeing Inside Trees: How Sonic Waves Help Us Detect Hidden Decay
- Austin Cowen
- Aug 11
- 2 min read
In tree care, what you can’t see can sometimes be the most dangerous. A tree may look perfectly healthy from the outside — green leaves, upright trunk, no visible damage — but inside, there could be decay, cavities, or structural weaknesses waiting to cause a failure.
That’s where sonic wave technology comes in.
What Is a Stress Wave Timer?
Our new stress wave timer measures the speed of sound through the wood to evaluate a tree’s internal condition. To perform the test, we place sensors at specific points on the trunk — often on opposite sides of the area we’re evaluating — and send a light tap through the wood. The device then records how long it takes for the sound wave to travel between sensors.
Because sound moves quickly through strong, solid wood and more slowly through areas that are decayed, hollow, or cracked, the stress wave timer allows us to pinpoint potential internal defects without drilling or damaging the tree. This method is quick, highly accurate, and non-invasive, giving us real-time data that helps determine whether a tree is structurally sound or requires intervention.
Why Internal Decay Matters
Hidden decay is one of the leading causes of tree failure. It can develop from:
Old wounds or pruning cuts
Fungal infections
Past storm damage
Root and soil issues
In many cases, a tree will continue to leaf out and grow even with serious internal damage — until one day, it fails unexpectedly.
How We Use Sonic Testing at NWI ArborCare
As part of our advanced tree risk assessment services, we now offer sonic tomography testing for trees of concern. This tool helps us:
Detect decay without drilling or cutting
Assess whether a tree is structurally sound or needs mitigation
Make informed decisions about pruning, bracing, or removal
Provide you with clear documentation and peace of mind
This service is especially valuable for:
Large, mature trees
Trees near homes, driveways, or public spaces
Specimen trees with high value or sentimental importance
Not Every Tree Needs Removal
One of the most important benefits of sonic testing is that it gives us clarity. We’re not guessing based on external signs — we’re working with real data about what’s happening inside the tree. That often means we can preserve a tree with targeted care rather than removing it unnecessarily.
Want to Know What’s Going on Inside Your Tree?
If you have a tree you’re concerned about — especially one close to a structure or showing signs of stress — sonic wave decay detection can help us assess the risk and give you a science-backed recommendation.
📞 Call 219-240-0460 or visit nwiarborcare.com to schedule a tree risk evaluation today.
Comments