Tree Root Removal

An attractive yard has a positive impact on the value of your home, and mature trees are an essential part of a pleasing landscape. However, trees sometimes grow in undesirable ways, which can force you to cut them back or remove them completely.

Tree Roots and Stumps

When the growth of tree roots causes walkways, driveways or house foundations to start lifting up, the roots must be pruned. Tree root removal is fairly straightforward, but care should be taken to ensure that the tree’s overall health is not compromised. Tree stumps can be removed manually, which is inexpensive but usually very labor-intensive, or you can rent a stump remover device known as a stump grinder, which provides a fast and relatively easy solution.

Another option for stump removal involves drilling holes into the stump and filling the holes with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer to accelerate the rotting process. Both tree root removal and stump removal can be performed by the homeowner or, in the case of larger projects, by a professional tree removal service.

Tree Removal Services

Removing tree limbs, roots, stumps and entire trees involves the use of equipment that can potentially pose hazards. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention statistics, close to 36,000 people each year suffer injuries from chain saws that are severe enough to require a visit to a hospital emergency room. Companies specializing in tree removal have experience in handling chainsaws, specialty cleaning equipment and other hazardous tools. When choosing a tree removal service provider, there are a number of points to consider:

• Obtain a written estimate. This contract should provide details as to specifically what the job entails as well as its expected cost.
• Check customer references. A reputable tree removal service should have no trouble providing the names and contact information of satisfied former customers.
• Request proof of insurance. Ask to see current certificates of worker compensation and liability insurance.
• Determine the company’s plan in case of a mishap, such as the accidental severing of electrical or telephone wires.

Emergency Tree Removal

Sometimes, a homeowner won’t have the luxury of having the time to plan a tree removal or large branch removal project. Lightning, ice storms and tropical storms can all necessitate emergency tree removal. Some companies, located in areas where active weather is common, even specialize in hurricane tree removal. In time-critical cases such as these, the work is best left to professionals. Many tree service offer 24 hour emergency protection, though homeowners should still attempt to follow good hiring practices when choosing a company to take care of the property damage.