Why is tree removal essential?
Professional tree removal helps protect your property and improve your landscape by:
Preventing safety hazards: Dead, diseased or leaning trees pose a serious risk of falling, which can cause injury or property damage, especially during storms.
Protecting nearby structures: Tree roots and overhanging branches can damage roofs, siding, driveways and underground pipes if not properly managed.
Reducing pest infestations: Decaying trees attract pests like termites, carpenter ants and rodents, which can spread to nearby structures.
Enhancing plant health: Removing unhealthy or overcrowded trees allows sunlight, nutrients and water to reach surrounding plants, improving their growth.
Boosting curb appeal: A well-maintained yard looks more attractive. Removing an unsightly or overgrown tree can boost your home's appearance and value.
Preventing power line interference: Trees too close to power lines can cause outages, fire hazards or costly utility repairs.
Creating space for new growth: Clearing a tree opens up space for landscaping improvements, whether planting new greenery or expanding outdoor living areas.
What should I expect during the tree removal process?
Here’s what typically happens during the tree removal process:
Site assessment: To plan the safest removal approach, the pro will likely evaluate the tree’s size, location and any surrounding hazards.
Safety preparation: Using protective gear, the pro will secure the area and may set up ropes or equipment to control the tree’s fall.
Cutting and dismantling: To minimize risk, most trees are cut down in sections, starting with the branches and working toward the trunk.
Stump removal (if included): Depending on the service, the stump may be ground down or left in place for a separate removal.
Cleanup and disposal: The team will remove debris, wood chips and logs. Some companies may offer firewood or mulch as part of this step.
How much does it usually cost to cut a tree?
The national average cost of tree removal costs around $722 to $2,068,* according to Thumbtack data. Meanwhile, national average prices for trimming or pruning ranges from around $436 to $1,221.*
There are several factors that might impact the cost of this project, including:
Tree size and height: Larger trees require more time, labor and specialized equipment, increasing costs. Tree-cutting services may charge more for taller trees due to added complexity.
Tree condition and health: Diseased or dead trees may require extra precautions, raising removal costs. Tree-cutting services may use specialized equipment for safe removal.
Location and accessibility: Trees near structures or power lines require greater precision, increasing labor and equipment costs for tree-cutting services.
Additional services: Stump grinding, debris cleanup or wood chipping can add to costs. Many tree-cutting services offer bundled pricing for multiple services.
You might be able to save money on your project with these tips:
Schedule during off-peak seasons: Tree cutting services may offer lower rates in late fall or winter when demand is down.
Bundle services: Combining tree removal with stump grinding or trimming may lead to discounts.
Obtain multiple quotes: Comparing quotes from tree-cutting services can help you find the best deal.
*Data on file at Thumbtack. For a personalized cost estimate, request a quote from a professional.
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.
Should I tip tree removal service workers?
While tipping is not expected, it can be a nice gesture. Tips are typically given directly to the crew. You might consider tipping for extra long or complex jobs or exceptional service. Offering cold water or snacks during the job is also appreciated — and you can always leave a positive review to support the pro’s business.
How much does it cost to trim a tree?
The national price range for tree trimming ranges anywhere from $75-$1,000. Tree trimming is often done by a professional arborist who is trained to safely trim and prune trees for both the health of the tree and the safety of the residents and their property. Trying to do your own tree trimming is not advisable unless you have the proper know-how. Tree trimming companies may charge an hourly rate for their services. The hourly rate may be higher or lower for different trees to reflect the relative safety measures, skill, equipment or people power needed to handle the job. For this reason, most tree services provide free estimates.
One example of an hourly rate for professional tree trimming services is $150 per hour. Costs may be under $100 or could be higher than $300 per hour, depending on variables such as proximity to buildings, health of the tree, height and diameter of the tree, and type of tree trimming desired. Geography and regional cost of living and regional costs to do business will also play a role in your tree removal costs.
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.
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.
How much does it cost to remove a fallen tree?
If you need to have a tree cut down, have you planned what will happen next? Arborists often charge an additional fee to quarter and remove the fallen tree from your property, so anticipate this as part of your tree removal costs. You can elect to have the wood cut for use in your fireplace, or you may prefer to have it hauled away completely.
Tree removal costs may vary based on the height and the width of the felled tree. Size affects the labor required for removal, which will be reflected in the cost. For example, a tree service company may charge an additional $100-$120 to haul away the pieces of a felled tree. The service may cost as little as $75 in some regions and more than $150 in others. Regional labor rates, the cost of living and the cost to do business in your area will be reflected in your tree removal cost.
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.