Rotten Oak Tree?

[techypaul]

We have moved into a new house and as part of our sort out, we're cutting back all the growth in the garden. Behind our big oak tree I have noticed some damage, and it looks rotten and crumbly.

Picture from front is for context, and you can just see the 'bad' bit on the left hand side.

 

Appreciate any advice on whether this is a 'big' problem that needs fixing, or something we can do ourselves, or just something not to worry about?

 

Thanks,

Paul.

Edited July 19, 2021 by techypaul
Additional picture

[averagearborist]

Just from the picture, it looks pretty minor. From picture it also looks like there is lots of functional luving wood all around the stem. Oaks and other trees are quite happy and safe living with fungi. If the growing conditions are good - plenty of water, fertile soil, other trees nearby, it will manage the fungal pathogen into its next life stage.

If you are still concerned, get a tree condition survey done by a reputable surveyor or consultant.

[Chris at eden]

I’m not so sure it is minor. The damage looks pretty old but the is no visible wound wood formation at the edges of the cavity.  The bottom pic also looks like an open cavity. How far does this extend in?  
 

cheers 

 

Chris 

[Khriss]

That could be right through!  Obvs near an occupied area so a thorough assessment required in the near future. K

[Stubby]

Parts of that look pretty fragile to me but .....it still could carry on for a good few years yet .

 Not helpful I realize .

[Chris at eden]

21 minutes ago, Stubby said:

Parts of that look pretty fragile to me but .....it still could carry on for a good few years yet .

 Not helpful I realize .

You could be right but as K said, a thorough examination is required probably with a Picus.  You can’t really tell from the photos. 
 

 

[Chris at eden]

I’m looking at it on the big screen now. 2nd pic - it looks like a big necrotic bark patch above the damage about 450mm wide and over a metre up the stem.  
 

[openspaceman]

5 minutes ago, Chris at eden said:

I’m looking at it on the big screen now. 2nd pic - it looks like a big necrotic bark patch above the damage about 450mm wide and over a metre up the stem.  
 

Yes and as the bark remains intact but sunken it looks like it may be another case of heat damage from a few years back

[techypaul]

Hi all, thank you for your advice, it's very welcome. I have contacted a local arborist, I'll make sure to come back here and let you know the results.