How To Choose the Right Broken Arrow Tree Service
Factors like services and licensing are important to consider when choosing a tree removal company. We go over some key factors below.
Vet the Company's Qualifications
Tree service companies should have insurance to protect their workers and customers. Some examples of policies include professional liability, general liability, and workers' compensation insurance. The policies should mention tree work coverage specifically because otherwise, you could be held responsible for any damage or injuries that occur on your property. Tree removal companies have no mandatory national certifications, but many employ arborists to perform inspections. Companies aren't required to have an arborist on staff, but having one brings in expert knowledge on tree preservation, maintenance, and care. Arborists have earned voluntary certification through the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA).
Get Quotes From Multiple Companies
Homeowners should request quotes from a handful of companies to compare aspects such as timelines, service fees, and included services. This helps find the best deal.
Confirm the Company Performs Residential Tree Services
Verify that your tree removal company provides residential services. Residential service companies mainly work on private homeowner properties. They have fewer restrictions than commercial tree service companies, which work on commercial property and therefore must obey certain local ordinances.
Request a Tree Risk Assessment
A tree risk assessment (TRA) involves visually inspecting a tree to evaluate the risk of it or its branches breaking. This is called tree failure. Assessing tree failure before the start of work helps protect both workers and your property. Some companies offer TRAs for free with their services, while others charge an additional fee. Typically, certified arborists conduct these assessments. Speak with your tree services provider and make sure an assessment is completed before work begins.
Ask About Stump Removal
Often, a tree removal company will include stump removal with its service. Removing stumps is important because stumps left unattended will rot and may attract pests or become diseased. Your tree removal company will remove your stump either by hand or using specialized equipment. This service costs from $66 to $485, with the typical Broken Arrow homeowner paying roughly $309.
How Much Does It Cost To Remove A Tree?
Tree removal services cost $301-$1,323, with an average cost of around $617. A number of factors impact final costs, like tree size and type, tree health, and project size. Emergency services cost more, running at around $1,588. If multiple trees need to be removed, companies may charge by acre. Your price will also increase if the trees have a higher failure risk and require additional safety precautions, labor, or equipment.
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Broken Arrow 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 tree, creating hazards if they break. Pests and diseases impact tree health and could spread to surrounding vegetation. Storm or wind damage can break branches, crack trunks, or uproot the entire tree. Trees that pose safety hazards to your property, surrounding homes, cars, or nearby power lines require immediate attention.
How are tree trimming and tree pruning different?
Although tree trimming and pruning benefit a tree's health, they accomplish two distinct goals. Trimming reduces 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 certain ways you can tell if a tree is dangerous. Signs including missing bark, rot, fungus or mold growth, or dead branches could indicate disease. You might also notice cracking between branches or in the trunk. Some cracks can be an immediate danger if they're on heavy branches or are very deep in the trunk. Have a tree evaluated immediately if it begins leaning or you notice raised dirt around the base.
Do I need to hire a professional for tree removal?
Yes. Professional help will protect you and your property. Your average homeowner doesn't have much experience climbing to the unsafe heights and using the dangerous equipment required for tree removal. This could lead to property damage or injury, or falling trees or branches hitting power lines, homes, cars, or a bystander. For this reason, we strongly recommend hiring a professional.
Is it safe to leave a downed tree sitting on my lawn?
No, you should remove downed trees from your yard to avoid safety hazards or additional property damage. Downed trees can attract pests and damage large sections of your lawn. If the downed tree is away from your home, surrounding homes, and power lines, call a tree removal company for assistance. If the downed tree poses an immediate safety risk, you'll need emergency tree removal.
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