• We will discuss the different aspects of tree service and the cost associated. Working as a tree service professional also known as an arborist is one of the most dangerous jobs in the world. Tree trimming and tree removal should be done by trained professionals to mitigate any damage to your property or your loved ones. To get an accurate idea of how much it cost to have tree service we will outline some of the challenges posed to the arborist that may be providing your tree service.

    Dead or Diseased Trees

    One of the first hazards encountered is dead or diseased trees. The first method we will discuss that’s used to provide tree services such as tree trimming, and tree removal is tree climbing. Depending on which service is needed an arborist will either use a rope and various mechanical devices or spikes to climb the tree and gain access to the canopy. Prior to doing this a risk assessment must be performed to deem if the tree is healthy enough to climb. In some cases, tree can be so disease or damaged such as with a tree that was infested with Emerald Ash Borer that it is not safe for a climber to climb. In a case like this a large forestry bucket truck may need to be brought in to assist as the tree integrity has been compromised. These trucks are extremely expensive and range from $100,000-$190,000 and cost a lot to maintain. Your local tree service company in turn may have to charge accordingly if your faced with this scenario.

    Fenced In Yard or Yard On A Grade

    Some homeowners have yards that are completely fenced in with limited access. Or they may have a yard on a steep grade. This is not a big deal for a tree service professional trained in climbing. They will be capable of safety removing or trimming your trees. In the event that the tree can’t be climbed as noted above a specialty lift may be brought in that can fit through a fenced gate and will set up on a grade. For the tree service companies lucky enough to have one they will squeeze right through your gate and set up on a grade. If a rental is required, the cost for these machines range from $1500-$3000 a day. As you can see the equipment to safely provide tree service is expensive which is why the cost of tree service to the average homeowner may seem high.

    Trees Overhanging House, Shed, Or Powerlines

    Sometimes when providing tree service, we encounter obstacles. An arborist knows what to do in this situation. If the tree is overhanging a structure such as a house or shed the arborist will need to use a technique called rigging. There are many different types of rigging and they will be trained to know which one to use. Rigging allows your tree service team to trim or remove trees and suspend or lower in a controlled fashion the tree or branch overhead. This method is used to ovoid damage to whichever structure it is hanging over. In some cases, depending on the size of the tree or limbs a decision to bring in a crane or grapple truck may be made. This equipment is extremely expensive starting at around $120,000 and going up to well over 1 million dollars. Not all tree service companies own this type of equipment so renting with operator may be the only option. These operators have a special license to operate and go to continuing education each year to maintain it. They will provide the service and assist the tree workers in safely removing or trimming your trees.

     Another thing to consider is powerlines. Trimming over or around powerlines is a significant hazard to your tree service team. Depending on how close it can become very dangerous. Sometimes a request to remove power or drop the line can be made to the power company. In situations where this cant happen an insulated bucket will need to be used that has been tested to be insulated from high voltage. Some jobs an insulated saw may need to be used as well. All these decisions will be made by your local tree service company.

    As you have now read there are many things that go into your tree service project. Equipment to provide this service is extremely expensive and proper training is required. All these things factor into the price of your project. Tree trimming and removal will start at around $250 and go up from there based on the things discussed above.  Contacting an insured tree service company for your work is a good idea. They may seem expensive but if you have someone with no insurance because they are cheaper you may be gambling with your life. For any tree removal or tree trimming play it safe and call your local tree service company or give us a call at Lightning Strikes Tree  for a free risk assessment and quote. 1-508-834-TREE

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