Trees add to the beauty of your property, but they can also be dangerous if they fall in the wrong direction. You may need to remove a tree in your yard for safety reasons, especially if it’s leaning toward your home or causing damage to other structures such as your driveway, deck or children’s playground. Choosing a tree-removal company is a major decision, and it’s important to understand what factors go into the cost. Depending on the type of tree, its location, how much you want to cut it and the size of the stump, prices can vary. Some companies offer free estimates, while others charge a flat rate.
The first step in removing a tree is to examine it carefully. Pay special attention to which way the tree leans naturally and plan how you will chop it down so that it falls in the direction you intend, says an arborist and horticulturist with A-1 Expert Tree Service in Fresno. It’s also a good idea to choose an escape route for yourself and any family members who might be in danger.
You’ll need to gather equipment for chopping down the tree. A large mattock or shovel, a saw and a chainsaw are essential, as is a pair of heavy work gloves, protective eyewear and a hard hat. A stump grinder is optional but a very helpful tool, as it grinds up the stump and leaves only a thin layer of wood behind. It can be rented at hardware stores and landscape supply yards.
Before starting any actual cutting, water the ground around the stump to soften it. One day before the job, you should also thoroughly saturate the area. This will make digging for the roots easier and reduce the risk of injury from tripping over them. You should also clear away all twigs, branches and debris from the area and fences to provide access to the stump. Be sure that the working area is twice as wide and long as the height of the tree.
Many states require a permit for tree removal, and it’s best to check with your local government before beginning. Even if you don’t need a permit, it’s a good idea to check in with a city forester or a licensed arborist before beginning the project. The city can give you advice on how to safely remove the tree without affecting power lines or compromising the integrity of nearby buildings.
For larger trees that are more than 80 feet tall, hiring a professional is usually the best option. These jobs require a lot of skill and machinery, which can be costly. Some of these projects also require the use of cranes, and this increases the price considerably. You’ll want to check with a landscaping company to see what their prices are for this service. Using a crane is a major undertaking and requires a team of workers to operate it properly. The costs of this type of service can easily top $5,000.