“Timber!” could be a rather alarming call to hear in the middle of your neighborhood. Trees are beautiful but can also be dangerous if they are not removed when they have become diseased or damaged beyond repair. Property, people, and pets can all be at risk if a tree is not removed safely.
In this article, we will cover the reasons you might require tree removal, and what to look for when hiring a tree care company.
Reasons to remove your tree
Excellent tree care and maintenance will help your tree live a long and healthy life, but life is unpredictable, and your trees can still become damaged or diseased. At this point, your tree can become a danger to your home, family, and other trees, and you need to remove the tree as quickly as possible.
#1: A dead tree
Dead trees will stand out from the rest of your healthy trees. Lack of foliage, large portions of missing bark, big cracks or splits, evidence of fungal growth on the tree, and sudden leaning of your tree are all signs that your tree is dead and needs to be removed.
#2: Severe tree disease
Some trees can be saved from disease and infestation, while others are too far gone. Signs of trees that are too far gone include weakened branches and foliage, hollowed-out trunks, and lack of healthy new leaf growth.
#3: Damage
Strong winds, storms, or lightning strikes can damage otherwise healthy trees, turning them into a hazard that needs to be addressed. Large splits, peeling, broken branches, burnt bark, and evidence of the tree dying such as dead leaves and lack of new growth are all signs you need to pay attention to.
In addition to these reasons, you may need to remove a tree if it is growing too close to your home or driveway, the roots can cause damage to your foundation, driveway, sidewalks, or sewer and plumbing lines. Additionally, trees too close to power lines or other trees need to be removed to avoid future problems.
What to consider when hiring a tree removal company
Tree removal is not something to be taken lightly. The safety of your home, family, and neighbors depends on choosing the right company. Here is what you need to look for.
#1: Licensing and certification
Look for a tree removal company that is licensed and certified by organizations like the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA). These organizations set standards and expectations for quality, professionalism, and safety that are vital to safe tree removal.
#2: Insurances
Sometimes things still go wrong (again, life is unpredictable). If something does go wrong, and property is damaged or even worse, someone is hurt, who is going to pay for it? You need to verify that the tree care company you hire has proper insurance in place, so you are protected from damage and injuries.
#3: Expertise
Many people will say they can remove a tree, but you don’t want just anyone heading into your yard right next to your home with a bunch of power tools. Look for a company that has proven its experience, and expertise, and has a track record of satisfied customers.
#4: Standards
Safety is the top priority for tree removal. A tree care company with professionalism and expertise will follow the industry safety standards and use the proper gear and equipment to protect its workers and you.
#5: Estimates
Look for a company that will give you a detailed estimate for the entire project. Make sure you understand the setup, removal, and cleanup process and what exactly you are paying for.
Tree removal is sometimes a necessity, especially in residential areas where homes and people are easily at risk from falling trees. Do your research and find an expert tree care company that is licensed, uses the proper equipment, is insured, and will list the exact scope of the project when removing your tree.
Looking for expert advice and help on when and how to remove your trees? We can help. Advanced Tree Care combines top-notch equipment, cutting-edge technology, and well-trained staff to provide emergency tree removal and tree maintenance services. With a presence in nine counties and two states, we work daily to provide unparalleled customer service, safety, and efficiency—as well as the expertise to beautify your landscaping and community. Advanced Tree Care isn’t just our name — it’s also our purpose!