How much does it cost to cut a tree down?
When you’re ready to have a tree on your property come down, it’s time to call an arborist. The national average price range for tree-trimming costs is $270-$450. Tree removal costs can vary based on the height, diameter, location and health of the tree, and on whether you want to remove the stump. Height plays a major role in tree removal costs. Small trees, no more than 30 feet tall, are usually thinner in diameter and easier and safer for an arborist to manage. Removal of a small tree can cost anywhere from under $150 to over $450. Removal of medium-height trees, from 30 feet to 60 feet tall, could cost anywhere between $150 and $850 or more. Tall trees, typically 60 feet to 80 feet tall, may start at $500 or cost more than $1,000 to cut down. As the height and diameter increase, so does the cost.
Location is critical, too. Removing a tree in an open space is quicker and presents fewer obstacles than removing a tree that is growing flush to your house. Arborists can assess your tree and provide you with quotes based on the variables involved. For example, removing a medium-size hackberry tree that was growing too close to a home — the roots were damaging the home’s foundation — cost $1,500. This price included rope-down, house protection, tree quartering and stacking, and stump removal.
What are the advantages of cutting trees?
There are several advantages to responsible tree cutting. As trees age and stop producing seeds, cutting them down can prevent them from falling on valuable property like homes and cars. Additionally, cutting trees allows more sunlight to reach smaller trees below, giving them the opportunity to grow. And pruning your trees can help promote growth.
When is the best time of year to trim trees?
Winter is generally the best time to trim most deciduous trees. In the cold months, trees enter a dormant period and stop growing until springtime. This makes it an ideal time to remove branches, which will sprout new growth in the spring.
However, certain tree species may need to be pruned and trimmed in different seasons. Still, it’s often recommended that you never prune your trees in the fall because fungi tend to spread profusely during this time.
And keep in mind you can remove dead, dying or infected branches at any time of year. You should also remove branches immediately if they’re a safety hazard.
If you’re unsure when you should prune or trim your trees, talk to an expert. Contact the best tree trimming professionals near you today.
What is tree trimming vs. tree pruning?
The difference between tree trimming and tree pruning comes down to the intention and strategy in the two methods. Pruning often refers to the removal of branches deemed unnecessary or hazardous, and this process helps stimulate growth. Tree trimming focuses on removing overgrown branches. But this process can also help the tree receive more moisture and light.
A professional might recommend pruning and trimming at different times of year to stimulate growth or leverage the tree’s dormant period to slow new sprouting.
What do tree removal companies do with the wood?
Downed trees can have a number of different end destinations. The tree removal company may use it as firewood to sell to customers, or they may send it through a wood chipper to turn it into mulch. The tree may also wind up in a green landfill or biomass power plant. Alternatively, it could go to a lumber or chip mill.
Is it worth it to hire a professional tree trimming service?
Hiring a professional tree trimming service near you can be worth the cost. This job requires the use of specialized equipment and involves a high degree of risk for inexperienced operators.
Safety is a major reason why you might want to avoid performing this task yourself. Another factor is time. Tree trimming services have their own equipment and tools that allow them to finish the job quickly.
