Tree removal cost is one of the many hot topics when it comes to landscaping. But if you’re asking for the exact amount of the service, all we can say is that it depends on a variety of things.
Perhaps you are looking to have your tree removed by a professional, and you want to know how much you should prepare for. Here are some of the things you should consider before making a call to your local tree service.
Tree Removal Variables
Tree removal can range from $300 up to $2,000, depending on its location, health, hazard, and overall complexity of the job. To simply put it, the cost will generally depend on the tree in question. Keep in mind that the more time, equipment, and effort the tree service will require, the higher the cost will be.
The tree removal company will look into the following factors when determining the final cost of removal:
- Location– Trees positioned anywhere near power lines or buildings will be on the higher end. This is because there is more obstruction to removing the tree; thus, more effort is required.
- Height– The contractor needs to use specialized equipment to eliminate taller trees. They also need to cut the tree into smaller portions so they can quickly and safely bring it down or transport it somewhere else. It requires more time and effort on the part of the tree service, which is why you can expect to be charged $500 to remove a 25-ft tall tree.
- Condition– It is typically easier to take down a rotten or dead tree than a living one. You can expect to be billed lower of your tree is not in a healthy state.
- Diameter– The width of the tree is as crucial as its height when determining the final cost. Trees with bigger diameters need to cut into smaller pieces, which will add to the total time of work. This drives up the cost of removal.
- Type of tree– Some species of trees, such as oak trees, are hardwood and are challenging to take down. It will take more time and energy to remove these types of trees, which is why the cost of removal will be more expensive.
Add-on services also affect the total cost of removal. Most companies include hauling the limbs and other debris away and even log splitting. However, stump grinding may not be part of the deal, so if you want to use this service, you need to pay extra for it.
When is Tree Removal Necessary?
Tree removal is necessary for many reasons. If your tree is dead or leaning to one side, or is storm damaged, it may be time to get rid of it. Trees in this condition are potentially hazardous not only to your possessions, but also your life.
Tree removal is usually necessary if:
- The trunk is damaged with a deep crack
- The trunk is hollow
- It has large, dead branches
- Sprouts are growing at the base of the trunk
- Apparent root damage
- The tree is located near or under a power line
- Fungus growth at the bottom of the tree
- The tree can potentially harm people walking by
The presence of insects is also an indication of damage in a tree. Trees infested with insects should be removed right away because they can spread to other trees in the area.
Alternatives to Tree Removal
Tree removal can be costly, which is why you should consider other alternative options when it comes to caring for your trees. In some cases, removal is unnecessary because the tree can still be treated and saved. You could opt for any of these alternatives when removal is not the best choice:
- Cabling and Bracing: Cables and braces can help improve the structural integrity of the tree. This can help a healthy tree that is leaning over the wrong direction or has been struck by a storm.
- Mulching and Fertilizing: Mulching keeps the moisture in and rejuvenates the overall health of the tree.
- Trimming and Pruning: If the tree is causing an obstruction in your view or simply has become a nuisance in your property, eliminating unwanted branches can be helpful.
- Moving the Tree: If you can relocate the tree to a more suitable location, you can ask the local tree company to complete the job for you.
Be sure to ask help from a professional tree company to guide you in the process. They will be able to help you decide what’s best for your tree.