Taking down a tree isn’t as simple as it sounds. You’ll need to have the tree looked at by a professional to determine whether it’s necessary to remove it, you may need to obtain permits, and it’s strongly recommended that you do not try to take down a tree by yourself.
Hiring a professional tree service ensures that the process is completed safely and in a way that does not disturb the local ecosystem. We will explore the cost of tree removal and help you figure out how to budget based on the type of tree you have, the permits you may need, and more. More information is available on our company website.
When is Tree Removal Necessary?
The first step is to determine whether the tree in question needs to be taken out. Here are a few indications that your tree does need to come down.
- The roots are causing foundation problems. Especially with large trees, the roots can sometimes grow too close to a building. If the roots are too close, they can end up pushing on the foundation from the bottom or pushing inwards on the walls, which can cause cracks and structural instability.
- The tree is dying. Dead or dying trees may be at risk of falling over. If more than half of the tree has died, it’s generally best to remove it. A professional tree removal company should be able to evaluate the tree and tell you how much of it is dead.
- Branches are frequently falling off. A branch or two in the yard after a windstorm is normal. However, if large branches are frequently falling from the tree, this may indicate decay beyond what’s normal.
Can You Remove a Tree On Your Own?
The belief that DIY work is always the way to go to save money is a common one, but not necessarily correct. This is especially true on risky jobs like removing a tree. As a general rule of thumb, if you need a ladder to reach the top of the tree, you should not attempt to remove it yourself.
However, smaller trees that are only a few feet tall may be safe to remove on your own. If you moisten the ground and dig around the base of the tree, you should be able to bring up the roots so that the tree can be transplanted rather than cut down.
Tree Removal Permits: A Potential Hidden Cost
At times, you may need to obtain a permit to have a tree taken out. Whether or not you need a permit will depend on your state, and it’s usually determined by the diameter of the tree in question. Make sure to check ahead of time and don’t assume that you don’t need a permit, even if the tree is on your property. If you need one, don’t forget to factor the permit fees into the cost for tree removal- your city’s website may have the information you need.
Tree Removal Prices Based on Tree Species
The cost for tree removal will depend on a number of factors, starting with the type of tree. The reason that the cost varies based on the type of tree is that each tree species grows in a different way and presents different challenges when it comes to removal. Some trees may have more branches or their trunks may form differently, as well as growing to different heights. All of these factors change the process of safely removing the tree, and therefore the cost of tree removal services.
The most expensive trees to remove are typically oak and maple trees. Not only do these trees have a large number of branches, they also tend to grow to be very tall and require more equipment and effort to remove.
Pricing Based On Tree Height
The taller the tree, the more difficult it is to safely remove. This is why the cost for tree removal goes up along with the height of the tree.
For trees up to 30 feet tall, the national average cost for tree removal is $250. Between 30 and 60 feet, you can expect to pay an average of $500, while trees between 60 and 80 feet average $900. Extremely tall trees, or those above 80 feet, can cost up to $1,800 to remove depending on their species, diameter, and proximity to any nearby buildings or power lines.
Is It Cheaper to Trim or Cut Down a Tree?
To trim or to cut down, that is the question. At times, there may not be a choice- a tree may be so diseased that it needs to be taken down, or 50% or more of the tree may be dead and need to be removed so that it doesn’t fall in a bad place. However, if it’s solely a matter of cost, which way should you go?
The cost of tree trimming, much like the cost for tree removal, depends on multiple factors, so the cheapest option will depend on the tree. Trimming the tree sounds like the cheaper option initially, since just part of the tree needs to be removed rather than the whole thing- but it can actually end up being the same price or even more expensive. This is partly due to the additional labor required to get up into the tree and get around the branches that don’t need to come down. Pests and diseases living in the tree are also taken into account when determining trimming costs.
Trimming a medium or large tree (over 30 feet) can cost between $250 and $1,000, with the national average being $325. Removing a tree between 30 and 60 feet tall, on the other hand, usually comes at a maximum price of around $700. However, if the tree is larger than 60 feet, that number can go up to $1,800.
Overall, the cost of tree removal can be significant, but removing a tree can be a matter of safety. If a tree is dying or diseased and it is left up, the next large gust could blow it over onto a house or a car. When in doubt, it’s best to call a tree removal service.