Residential & Commercial Tree Removal Services

Most healthy and well-maintained trees require trimming every one to two years. However, dead or diseased branches should be removed immediately to prevent accidents and maintain the health of your trees. It takes experience to know when each tree is best suited for trimming, how extensively it should be trimmed, and how to shape it properly for healthy growth and maximum beauty. We’ll discuss your needs in detail when we examine your property and give you a quote.

Trees are often removed due to safety concerns, property damage risks, or to address unhealthy or undesirable conditions. Specific reasons include dead or dying trees, structurally unsound trees — such as those with significant leans or hollow trunks —trees that are too close to structures or power lines, or trees that are diseased and could spread infection. Additionally, trees may be removed for aesthetic reasons, such as blocking views or excessive shade.

Reasons for Tree Removal

Signs of dead or dying trees

• No leaves or buds: During the growing season, a complete absence of leaves or buds indicates a tree is dead or has a severe health problem. A thin or sparse leaf canopy can also be a sign of poor health.
• Dead branches: While the occasional dead branch is normal, a large number of dead branches throughout the canopy can mean the tree is dying. Brittle or dry branches that snap easily are a warning sign, as are dead leaves that cling to branches throughout the winter.
• Peeling or missing bark: The bark serves as the tree’s protective armor. When large sections start to peel or flake off, it can indicate disease or that the tree is no longer able to transport nutrients.
• Failed scratch test: A simple test for a branch’s health is to scratch the bark with your fingernail. If the layer underneath is green and moist, the tissue is alive. If it’s brown and dry, the branch is dead.

Signs of structural weakness and decay

• Deep cracks and hollows: Cracks in the trunk or main branches are serious structural defects that indicate the wood is separating and the tree is weakening. A hollow-sounding trunk when tapped with a rubber mallet is also a key sign of significant internal decay.
• Fungus and rot: Mushrooms, conks, or shelf fungi growing on the trunk, particularly at the base or on the root flare, indicate advanced internal decay. This often means the tree is rotting from the inside out.
• Leaning tree: While a slight, natural lean is normal, a tree that has developed a new or dramatic lean may have a compromised root system and is at risk of falling. Heaving or cracking soil at the tree’s base confirms that its rootball is shifting.
• Weak branch unions: Branches with a narrow, V-shaped point of attachment are weaker than those with a strong, U-shaped attachment. Weak unions are prone to splitting and failure.

Other hazards

• Proximity to structures: Even a healthy tree may need removal if it is too close to your home, power lines, or other structures. A large tree’s root system can damage a foundation, and its branches can cause damage if they fall.
• Major insect infestation: While some infestations can be treated, others, like carpenter ants or wood borers, can cause severe internal damage that compromises the tree’s structural integrity.
• Post-storm damage: If a tree has suffered extensive damage from a severe storm, it may be too weak to recover and could pose a future risk.
• Root problems: Construction damage, soil compaction, or poor drainage can harm the root system, causing the tree to decline. Signs include poor growth, a thinning canopy, and mushrooms at the tree’s base.

What to do if you see warning signs

If you notice any of these issues, contact Rob’s Tree Service for an assessment. He will properly diagnose the issue and determine if the tree can be saved or if removal is the safest course of action.

Tree Removal Benefits

Tree removal can offer several benefits, particularly when addressing problematic or potentially hazardous trees.

Property and safety protection

• Prevents property damage: Dead, dying, or structurally weak trees pose a significant hazard during severe weather. Falling branches or toppling trees can cause costly damage to your home, cars, power lines, and other structures. Removing these risks preemptively protects your assets and saves you money in the long run.
• Eliminates safety hazards: Professional removal of hazardous trees protects family, visitors, and pets from injury. This is especially important for trees with large dead limbs or unstable root systems.
• Reduces pest and disease spread: A decaying or diseased tree can become a breeding ground for pests like termites or carpenter ants, which can then infest other healthy trees or even your home. Removing the problem tree prevents the infestation from spreading.

Landscape and yard health

• Improves sunlight exposure: A large, dense tree canopy can block sunlight, hindering the growth of grass and other plants underneath. After removal, more sunlight can reach your lawn, promoting lush, even growth.
• Frees up soil nutrients: Trees compete with other plants for water and nutrients in the soil. Removing a large tree makes these resources more available for your remaining landscaping, fostering a healthier overall yard.
• Allows for new growth: Removing a tree that is overcrowding other plants allows them to flourish. The space can also be used for new plantings, a garden bed, or another landscape feature.
• Protects healthy trees: Removing an infected or stressed tree helps prevent the spread of harmful fungi and diseases to the rest of your landscape.

Other key benefits

• Increases curb appeal and property value: Dead, unhealthy, or awkwardly placed trees can make your yard look neglected and reduce your home’s aesthetic appeal. Removing them can improve your property’s visual appeal and value.
• Avoids complicated DIY risks: Professional tree removal is a difficult and dangerous job that requires specialized equipment, training, and experience. Experts are insured and have the knowledge to complete the job safely, without personal injury or costly mistakes.
• Includes complete cleanup: Professional services typically include removing all the branches, wood, and debris, leaving your yard clean and tidy. They may also offer stump grinding to fully clear the area.