Affordable Tree Removal Service
You have a tree in your yard that looks dangerously unwell and want to get rid of it before it takes out the neighbor’s fence, or worse yet, causes damage to your home. But you’ve heard stories about how expensive it can be, and you’re a little worried about going with the most affordable tree removal service because you want to make sure it’s done right.
And while the budget shouldn’t be the only way you choose a tree removal company, it does play a part. Fortunately, there are ways to get both quality service and not have to spend an inordinate amount of money to get a tree removed.
Finding Affordable Tree Removal Service
One of the first things you should do is a little comparison shopping. Search for “affordable tree removal service” and get a list of a few companies in your area. See if they come highly recommended, the other services they offer, if they have the required licensing and bonding, and if they have a qualified arborist on staff.
All of those points are key because you don’t want to hire someone who can’t do the job, or worse yet, make the situation worse. A free estimate is a given for any reputable company–but make sure they come out first and inspect the tree and the situation. If someone gives you an estimate on a job before a crew shows up to do the work, how can they know for sure what’s needed?
There are a few things that could be out of your control, however. If it’s been a particularly rough fall or winter, and storms have been damaging trees beyond repair, it may be difficult to schedule a time to get your tree removed. Emergency tree removal may be more expensive, but if you feel your tree is in a precarious position, you may have to bite the bullet for safety (so to speak).
If you can wait until the “off-season” to have your tree removed, you may be able to get a discount of some sort. It doesn’t hurt to ask if the company has any special rates or discounts or check their website to see if they offer any deals. Although it may be a lost art, you can even negotiate with the tree service provider, especially for larger projects. Some companies may be willing to lower their rates, particularly for multiple services or repeat business.
Ask For Tree Removal Options
If possible, consider partial tree removal instead of complete tree removal. Pruning or tree trimming may address the issue and be less expensive. And, if at all possible, most reputable companies will work with you to save a tree if it makes sense.
Sometimes, it can cost a lot for the company to take the tree debris away after a job. Ask the tree service company if you can keep the wood for firewood or if they can turn it into mulch for your property, reducing disposal costs.
Or offer to handle the cleanup and disposal of debris yourself for more affordable tree removal service. Ensure you can do this safely and have the necessary equipment. Yes, you want to save money, but it’s not a good look to have pieces of a downed tree lying around your yard for weeks or months on end.
Pass Off the Cost
In some cases, you may not have to pay for the removal or at all, or just a small portion of the costs. If tree removal is required due to storm damage, check if your homeowner’s insurance covers the cost. Your insurance provider may help with the expense.
In some regions, government or environmental organizations may offer incentives or grants for tree removal in specific situations. Always check local regulations before removing a tree. Some areas may have restrictions or requirements for tree removal that can affect the cost. Depending on the location of the tree, local jurisdictions may remove it for you.
While making tree removal services more affordable is important, it’s equally crucial to prioritize the safety and expertise of the tree removal team. Hiring a professional and reputable company ensures that the job is done correctly and without risk to your property or safety.
Care for Your Tree Before You Need Affordable Tree Removal Service
One thing you can do to make tree removal services more affordable is to take care of the trees in the first place. Now, this doesn’t mean removing a tree on your own, especially in a crowded neighborhood with trees that are a century old (and that many feet tall). It’s the work you do before the tree becomes dangerous that keeps it from being removed in the first place.
Pruning/Trimming Your Trees
The safest way to prune or trim a tree–for you and the tree–involves a few important considerations. First, equip yourself with the right tools, including sharp and clean pruning shears and loppers, and wear protective gear like gloves and safety glasses. Before making any cuts, carefully inspect the tree and identify the branches to be pruned.
Focus on removing dead, diseased, or crossing branches that could potentially damage the tree’s structure or impede its growth. When making cuts, it’s essential to follow proper technique. Make clean cuts just outside the branch collar, which is the swollen area where the branch meets the trunk.
Cutting too close to the trunk or leaving stubs can impede the tree’s healing process. Avoid removing more than 25% of the tree’s foliage in a single season–this can put undue stress on the tree. It’s crucial never to “top” a tree by cutting across the main branches, as this can put the tree at risk.
Pruning during the dormant season, typically late fall or winter, is ideal as it minimizes stress on the tree and encourages robust regrowth in the spring. For large or high branches that are challenging to reach safely, it’s probably time to call in the experts.
At Ground Level
Maintaining healthy soil around an established tree is crucial for its well-being. One key practice is mulching: begin by selecting organic mulch, like wood chips, bark, or compost, and apply it in a layer around the base of the tree. Make sure the mulch forms a circle with a diameter of at least 2 to 3 feet, leaving a gap around the tree trunk to prevent rot.
The mulch layer should ideally be 2 to 4 inches deep and will serve several purposes. It retains moisture, regulates soil temperature, reduces competition from weeds, and enhances soil structure. Be sure to refresh the mulch periodically to maintain its effectiveness and appearance.
Refrain from heavy foot traffic around the tree, as compacted soil restricts oxygen and water penetration. We advise against chemical weed killers or excessive fertilizers, as they can negatively affect the tree. Regularly inspect the soil for signs of compaction, waterlogging, or erosion and take corrective actions as needed.
If you are in need of affordable tree removal services, make sure to give Inexpensive Tree Care a call. For nearly two decades, we’ve been working with homeowners to remove dangerous trees at a fair price–we take pride in the value we offer each and every client. Give us a call and let us know what the issue is and we’ll come out and take a look.