How To Choose the Right Brooklyn Tree Service
When you're considering companies for tree removal, you may look at factors like licensing and services offered. We highlight some important considerations below.
Vet the Company's Qualifications
Your tree service provider should hold insurance to protect both customers and workers. These policies might include professional liability, general liability, or workers' compensation insurance. Be sure that the policy specifically mentions tree work coverage, otherwise you may be liable for any injuries or damage that occur on your property. Tree removal has no mandatory national certifications, but a company may have a certified arborist on staff to perform inspections. Having an arborist isn't required, but it does provide added benefits. Arborists are certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). They're the experts in proper care, maintenance, and preservation techniques to protect tree health.
Get Quotes From Multiple Companies
You can request quotes from a handful of companies. This lets you compare aspects such as timelines, service fees, and included services to find the best deal.
Confirm the Company Performs Residential Tree Services
Look for tree removal companies that specialize in residential services. These companies are less likely to have city-mandated service restrictions than commercial companies, which must follow certain city ordinances for their work.
Request a Tree Risk Assessment
A tree risk assessment (TRA) evaluates the possibility of tree failure. Your tree removal professional will visually inspect a tree to determine the risk of the tree or its branches breaking. A TRA helps minimize the risk of harm to workers and property. Talk to your tree removal service provider and ensure you have a TRA completed before starting work. Certified arborists typically conduct these assessments. Some companies offer TRAs for free, while others charge an additional fee.
Ask About Stump Removal
It's important to remove tree stumps because if left unattended they can attract disease and pests. Ask your tree removal company if it includes stump removal with its services. A professional will remove stumps either with specialized equipment or by hand. This service costs from $90 to $658, with the typical Brooklyn homeowner paying about $419.
How Much Does It Cost To Remove A Tree?
The cost of tree removal ranges from $408-$1,796, with an average cost of $838. Factors such as project size, tree health, and tree size and type may affect the total price. Emergency tree removal costs about $2,155, and any tree will incur additional fees if it has a higher failure risk or requires additional safety precautions, equipment, or labor. A company may charge by the acre instead of per tree if you're having multiple trees removed.
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Brooklyn Tree FAQ
What are common tree issues?
Some common tree issues include root and branch overgrowth. Overgrowth roots could cause damage to surrounding septic tanks, driveways, and sidewalks. Branches can extend too far from the trunk, becoming hazards if they break. Diseases and pests can harm tree health and spread to nearby vegetation. Wind or storm damage crack trunks, break branches, or uproot an entire tree. Any tree issues that could damage your property, surrounding homes, cars, or nearby power lines require immediate attention.
What's the difference between tree pruning and tree trimming?
Although tree trimming and pruning benefit a tree's health, they achieve two different goals. Trimming helps reduce overgrown branches to help light and moisture absorption. Tree pruning, on the other hand, involves removing unhealthy or excess branches to stimulate growth. Both services happen at different times of the year and help improve your landscape.
How can I tell if a tree is dangerous?
There are several ways you can tell if a tree is dangerous. Signs like missing bark, fungus or mold growth, dead branches, or rot may indicate disease. You may also notice cracking in the trunk or between branches. Some cracks may be an immediate danger if they're on heavy branches or are very deep in the trunk. Have a tree evaluated immediately if you notice raised dirt surrounding the base or if it begins leaning.
Do I need to hire a professional for tree removal?
Yes. Professional help will ensure your safety and protect your property. Most homeowners don't have much experience using the dangerous equipment and climbing to the unsafe heights necessary for tree removal. This could lead to property damage or injury, or falling trees or branches hitting power lines, cars, homes, or a bystander. For this reason, we strongly recommend hiring a professional.
Is it okay to leave a downed tree on my lawn?
No, downed trees should be removed from your lawn to avoid safety hazards and further property damage. Fallen trees occupy necessary yard space and could attract pests to inhabit their branches. If the downed tree isn't close to your home, surrounding homes, or power lines, contact a tree removal company to have it removed. If there's an immediate safety risk, you'll need emergency tree removal services.
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