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Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: When is the best time to trim trees?

A: It all depends on what kind of tree we are talking about, but as a general rule of thumb...  

• Late Fall - Winter is ideal for most pruning: trees are dormant, pests are inactive, and healing is faster.

• Avoid Spring Pruning for most species—trees are actively growing and vulnerable to pests.

• Oak Wilt Alert: For any oak species, never prune between February and June. Always seal cuts with pruning paint.

Q: Why are Tree Services so expensive?

A: Tree services—such as tree trimming, pruning, and removal—can seem costly at first glance. However, the price reflects far more than simply cutting branches. Professional tree care requires specialized equipment, certified expertise, high insurance coverage, and intensive labor, all of which ensure the safety of your property and the crew involved.

Major Factors That Affect the Cost of Tree Service

1. High-Risk, Hazardous Work

Tree work is one of the most dangerous trades. Crews often work at significant heights, around heavy machinery, and near power lines or damaged tree structures.
To protect your home and their workers, reputable companies carry general liability insurance and workers’ compensation, which come with high premium costs. These insurance requirements help safeguard homeowners from unexpected damage or liability.

2. Specialized, Expensive Equipment

Some tree services require special expensive equipment such as:

• Bucket trucks and aerial lifts 

• Cranes

• Wood chippers

• Stump grinders

These machines cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to purchase and maintain or to rent.  Their use ensures efficiency, precision, and safety—which directly affects service pricing.

3. Skilled Labor and Arborists

Quality tree care is not just cutting limbs. Crews must understand:

• Tree biology and growth patterns

• Proper pruning techniques

• How to prevent disease or future hazards

4. Job Complexity and Location

• No two trees are the same. The cost varies depending on:

• Tree size and height

• Whether the tree is healthy, dead, or diseased (dead trees are more dangerous to remove)

• Location—near homes, fences, or power lines

• Complex removals often require cranes or sectional cutting, increasing time and labor.

5. Cleanup and Debris Disposal

Tree removal doesn’t end with cutting. Crews must chip branches, haul away debris, load trucks, and sometimes grind the stump, which is typically an add-on service. The cleanup process can take as long as the removal.

6. Seasonal Demand

Tree service pricing may be higher during peak seasons, especially after storms when demand increases. Homeowners may save money by scheduling work in slower months, often in winter.