What to Know About: Tree Cutting and Removal
Arborists provide tree pruning, and they can offer insight on the pruning techniques that are most beneficial for tree health and overall safety. If a tree is dying, an arborist can provide tree removal services. An arborist can also assist in pairing the right type of tree with the right location. Finally, an arborist can provide trimming services if a tree has been damaged in a storm, or needs to be pared back for safety reasons. For example, according to OSHA, tree trimming or removal work within 10 feet of a power line must be done by trained and experienced line-clearance tree trimmers -- and no one should ever trim trees in dangerous weather conditions.
When is tree removal necessary?
As specialists dedicated to tree maintenance and care, arborists view tree removal as a last resort, but there are some cases in which removal is necessary. If a tree is dying, prompt removal is essential, since the tree could fall and cause personal injury or property damage. Tree removal is usually recommended if more than 50 percent of the tree is damaged or diseased. Tree removal might also be necessary if the root structure is causing extensive property damage or safety hazards such as on public sidewalks.
Can a tree service be called on in an emergency?
If a storm hits and damages your residence, a tree service professional is usually on your list of people to call for help after first-responders and your insurer. A professional service can completely remove a tree or just prune and saw off its branches if a storm damages a tree. After sawing or destroying the tree, professionals can then remove any of the dangerous debris from your yard by hauling it off.
What can influence the cost of a tree service job?
The more dangerous the job, the more it will cost to remove or even trim a tree. If the tree is located in a hard-to-reach area or if there are power lines either near it or in the way, a tree service will charge more. Get an itemized invoice that shows how much each part of the job will cost, from the actual chopping down of the tree to the stump grinding and disposal.
How much does cutting down a tree cost?
The average cost of completely cutting down a large tree can be well over $1,000 with stump removal. The price of grinding down the tree's stump also varies. Many tree service professionals charge by the diameter, with the average price being $3 per inch.
How much does trimming a tree cost?
How much you'll pay for services depends on how tall and large the tree is and what type of job is required. This is why the average cost of trimming a tree varies widely. Trimming or pruning a 30-foot tree can cost anywhere from $75 to $400, while taller species such as oaks and pines may run from $150 to almost $900.
Does a tree service company need to be certified?
Not all tree service companies feature certified arborists. If you have trees you want to keep and care for, you need a full-fledged arborist for the job. Ask the company to verify qualifications and credentials before you sign or agree to anything.
Hiring a certified arborist gives you more options. In case you decide you don't want trees chopped down, ask if there's anything he or she can do to spare any sickly trees you might have.
Does a tree service company need insurance?
Before hiring a company, you need to know it's carrying enough insurance to cover any damage done to your property or any injuries that could result from the work done on your home. Make sure you verify the tree service is insured and for the proper amount.
For more information about what to do after a major disaster damages your home and property, see the following articles:
What to Know About: Electrical Work
What to Know About: General Contractors
What to Know About: Water Damage
What to Know About: Insurance
What to Know About: Roofing
What to Know About: Auto Damage