Tree Service Brighton

Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Services

Is it cheaper to cut down a tree yourself?

While it might seem tempting to cut down a tree yourself to save money, it's important to weigh the potential risks and costs involved.
Risks:

• Safety: Felling a tree is extremely dangerous without proper training and equipment. Falling branches or the entire tree can cause serious injury or even death.
• Property Damage: If the tree falls in the wrong direction, it could damage your home, vehicles, or other structures on your property.
• Liability: If you cause damage to your neighbor's property or injure someone while cutting down a tree yourself, you could be held liable.

Costs:

• Equipment: You'll need to invest in or rent specialized equipment like chainsaws, safety gear, ropes, and potentially a wood chipper.
• Disposal: You'll be responsible for disposing of the tree debris, which can be time-consuming and expensive, especially for large trees.
• Repairs: If the tree falls incorrectly and causes damage, you'll have to cover the cost of repairs.

In most cases, the risks and potential costs outweigh any perceived savings from DIY tree removal. Hiring a professional tree service company is the safest and often the most cost-effective option in the long run. They have the experience, equipment, and insurance to handle the job properly and protect you from liability.

How much does it cost to remove a large tree?

Removing a large tree is a complex task that often requires specialized equipment and expertise. The cost can vary significantly based on factors like:

• Tree Height and Diameter: Taller and wider trees require more time and equipment to remove safely.
• Location and Accessibility: Trees located near structures, power lines, or in difficult-to-access areas will cost more to remove.
• Condition of the Tree: Trees that are diseased, damaged, or have weak branches may require specialized techniques for safe removal, adding to the cost.
• Stump Removal: If you want the stump removed as well, this will add to the overall cost.
• Debris Removal and Cleanup: The cost of hauling away the tree debris and cleaning up the work area is usually included in the overall price.
• Local Labor Costs: Tree removal rates can vary depending on the region and the availability of qualified arborists.

In USA, large tree removal typically costs between £500 and £2,000 or more. To get a more accurate estimate for your specific tree, request free quotes from reputable tree service companies on TreeServiceMatch.

What is the difference between tree trimming and tree pruning?

While the terms 'tree trimming' and 'tree pruning' are often used interchangeably, there is a subtle difference:
Tree Trimming: Primarily focuses on improving a tree's appearance. It involves selectively removing branches to shape the tree, remove dead or diseased branches, and improve clearance for structures or utilities.
Tree Pruning: Focuses on maintaining or improving the tree's health and structure. It involves removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches to prevent the spread of disease, encourage new growth, and improve the tree's overall vigor.
In practice, trimming and pruning often overlap, and a skilled arborist will usually combine both techniques to achieve the desired results for your trees.

Is it OK to cut tree roots?

Cutting tree roots can be necessary in some situations, but it should always be done with caution and preferably under the guidance of a certified arborist.
**When it's OK to cut roots:**

• Small roots: Cutting small, superficial roots during landscaping or gardening is usually not a significant problem for the tree.
• Encroaching roots: Roots growing into sidewalks, driveways, or foundations may need to be cut back. However, it's essential to do this carefully to avoid damaging the tree's structural integrity.
• Root pruning for transplanting: Before transplanting a tree, root pruning is done to encourage new root growth within a smaller area, making the transplanting process more successful.

**Risks of cutting tree roots:**

• Tree instability: Cutting large structural roots can weaken the tree's support system, making it more susceptible to windthrow or breakage.
• Disease entry: Cuts create wounds that can serve as entry points for disease-causing organisms.
• Reduced nutrient and water uptake: Cutting roots can limit the tree's ability to absorb water and nutrients from the soil.

Before cutting any significant tree roots, consult with a certified arborist to assess the situation, determine the best course of action, and minimize the risk of damage to the tree.