Tree Cable and Bracing Supplies

Buying guide

Cable grades

Extra high strength (EHS) galvanized cable is the common choice for most tree support work because it offers high strength for its diameter. Common grade cable is lower strength and suits lighter applications. The right size depends on the diameter of the limbs being supported and the system design, so size by the standard and your company's specs rather than by guesswork.

Cable is usually installed with eye bolts or lag hardware and terminated with preformed dead-ends or other approved terminations. Do not mix incompatible hardware and cable sizes.

Static steel systems are the traditional choice for heavy limbs and codominant stems. Common grade cable can work for smaller trees or lighter loads. Do not substitute hardware store wire or cable not meant for this use, since it may not have the strength or corrosion resistance needed.

Bracing rods

Threaded bracing rods give rigid support across a split or a weak union where movement must be limited. They are installed through the stem with washers and nuts. Bracing is often used together with cabling higher in the crown.

Bracing rods are typically installed in pairs or sets through the stems near a weak union, with washers sized to spread load on the wood. Proper drilling and placement matter, and holes should be no larger than needed. A bracing kit can include rods, nuts, washers and a drill bit sized for the rod.

Not every split or weak union is a good candidate for bracing. Decay, cracks running deep into the stem or a target-rich site may call for reduction, removal or a different approach. A risk assessment by a qualified arborist should come before any hardware goes into the tree.

Building a tree cabling kit

A practical kit includes a few sizes of cable, matching eye bolts and lags, terminations, thimbles, a drill with long bits, a cable cutter and a way to measure and tension. Keep hardware sorted by size so the climber gets what they ask for the first time.

Some crews also carry synthetic dynamic systems for lighter support. Those use their own hardware and installation methods.

Keep a written checklist in the kit and restock after each install. Running short on a single eye bolt size halfway up a tree costs more time than it saves. Label sizes clearly on bins and bags, and carry a few extra of the most common parts.

Standards and inspection

Install support systems according to ANSI A300 and the manufacturer's instructions. Document what was installed and schedule follow-up inspections, since trees grow and hardware ages. Tree bracing systems that are not inspected can become part of the problem.

Tree cabling supplies should be stored dry and free of corrosion. Discard bent or damaged hardware rather than straightening it. When installing in a customer's tree, explain that the system needs periodic inspection, and put the next inspection date on the invoice.