Letting go of a tree is not always a pleasant experience. This is especially true if it has been with you for many years and has a sentimental value to your family. However, there are times when removing a tree is the best thing to do, no matter how beautiful or tall it has grown in your yard. Here are some reasons why tree removal is sometimes the best option left for you.

Safety
Safety would always be a non-negotiable when it comes to deciding whether or not to remove a tree. If you see a tree leaning towards one side or some parts of it is damaged, or it has been infested by disease, this is more than enough reason to take it down. Always remember that prevention is better than facing the consequence of not taking action. If you suspect a tree to have any symptom of health problems, call a certified arborist to help you assess the situation.

Structural Preservation
We all want tall and beautiful trees in our yard. They provide much-needed shade and cool air, and they're pleasant to be around because of all the benefits they shower us with. But, if they grow too close to your house, they can be a real pain and cause unnecessary trouble. Often, small trees are planted too near the foundation of a home and later on causes damage to the structure and foundation of the house. As the root grows more rooted to the ground, it causes the ground to expand due to the pressure and leads to the walls and floors of the house to crack and break. Further, animals such as squirrels use trees to access your roof and start making their way to your pipeline. Finally, fallen leaves that are left on the ground or your roof will go damp and decay.

Climate Control
Everybody appreciates the natural shade that trees offer, especially in the heat of the summer. This makes it even harder to remove a tree without having a second thought. However, when trees make your patio and flagstones and the surrounding area moist, it can lead to mildew formation. It can also cause your porch to rot because of the water that accumulates in the area over time. Finally, during winter, when you want to feel warm, tree branches can block sunlight from getting into your windows.

Aesthetics
Change is good. This is also true when it comes to making your yard look more beautiful. Although trees are nature's natural decoration to the environment, they can be too much and difficult to maintain. Trees that are no longer well-maintained can eventually become a nuisance. The tree that once looked wonderful can grow overwhelming and detrimental to the overall appeal of your property. For example, you may have a cherry tree that blooms pretty flowers in spring but is lopsided and wild. It may not be worth it to keep it in your yard for safety and aesthetic reasons.

Practical Reasons
There are plenty of legitimate reasons to remove a tree, and they include practical reasons, such as when they ruin your patio furniture. When trees are planted too close to your home, their leaves and flowers fall off the ground and decay all over the place. Dead limbs and branches can come from large trees and fall to your roof or block your drainage. This is already a valid reason to have the tree removed. Plus, when you have a lot of trees to tend to, you will have a hard time cleaning all the mess that comes from them, including twigs and leaves. If you have a big space, it becomes even harder.

Tree removal will cost you money. However, you should really take it as an investment, and not a liability. After all, the cost for tree removal is much cheaper compared to the amount you will pay for repair costs when your house gets damaged because of a fallen tree. How do professional tree removal companies compute the cost for different tree services? What factors need to be considered when determining the cost of tree removal? Knowing the answer to these critical questions will help you make an informed decision regarding your tree.

Most of the time, tree removal will involve climbing and cutting the tree into smaller parts for easier removal. These steps are the usual inclusions for a basic tree removal package. You should remember that not all tree contractors will take care of the debris and tree limbs. Some will do, but for an additional price.

We have also come up with a list of services that may require additional fees.

• Stump removal- Most tree removal services don't include stump removal in their package. If you don't want an ugly stump to sit in the middle of your yard, you have to be ready with extra cash.
• Limb chipping- You have a choice whether you want limbs chipped or hauled away. Tree companies usually have chippers with them, and if it is not included in the pricing, it usually costs $100 for this service.
• Tree trunk removal- Tree companies will typically chop the trunk off to smaller parts, but they do not usually haul those sections away. You may need to pay an additional $100 for them to do that for you.

• Log splitting- If you want to save some wood for firewood, prepare an extra $75 on top of the tree removal amount.

How much will it cost to remove my tree?
After knowing the additional fees for other tree services, let's talk about the cost for the actual tree removal. The value for tree removal depends on the size of the tree, so you can expect that the larger the tree, the higher the price gets.

• Large tree removal ($1,500)- A reputable company will not charge less than a $1,000 for large tree removal because of the labor and equipment that needs to be used in completing the job. If you encounter a tree company that offers tree removal for a bargain, think again because you might fall victim for a scam.
• Fallen tree removal ($150)- Removing a fallen tree is not as simple as you think. It has its own challenges that should be handled by a professional. You can ask the company if they will chip the wood into smaller pieces or if they will haul them away.
• Tree branch removal ($300)- There are times when your tree doesn't need to be removed entirely. If what your tree needs is branch removal, the tree company can do it for you. It can be crucial to remove a branch that interferes with a power line, and you might need to get in touch with your utility service for assistance.

 

How to Tell If a Tree is Dead and Needs to be Removed
It can be challenging for a property owner to tell whether a tree is dead or alive. The task is even more difficult in the winter season when most trees look dead. There can still be hope for diseased and damaged trees in some cases, but it is impossible to revive a fallen tree. When you have a dead tree in your yard, there is no other way around but to have it removed before it can cause trouble. We are here to tell you some of the most common signs to help you determine the situation of your tree and give you an idea of what you're supposed to do after.
 
Things to Check for on a Dead Tree
First off, assess the actual tree and look for some physical signs of it being dead. You can perform simple tests or inspect for apparent signs to help you tell whether the tree is dead or not.
Fungus Growth
Inspect the tree's trunk and look for signs of fungus at its base. Fungus growth is one of the most apparent signs of a dead tree. It could mean that the inside of the trunk has decayed and the tree is already dead.
Tree Trunk Damage
It doesn't end with fungus growth. Keep evaluating the tree trunk and look for vertical cracks in it. If you see any serious damage, it could be a sign that the tree is in bad shape. If the tree is healthy, its bark will grow back even if it falls off due to maturity. If it remains bald and smooth, your tree may be in danger.
Check for Bare Branches
Tree branches should be dense with leaves in spring or summer, but if they are not, it can be an indicator that it is damaged. In some cases, only one side of the tree is affected with bare branches, and the other side is fine. It can mean that the tree is only diseased on one side, but it could still be a problem because the tree will become lopsided and breakdown because of its weight.
Check for Damaged Roots
Checking for damaged roots is not as easy as it seems. The good thing is, some signs can help you tell if the roots are damaged. If the tree is leaning towards one side, it can signal that the tree's root is not as stable compromising the structure of the tree. Also, epicormic shoots can be found at the base of the trunk of a tree with weak roots. Some activities by humans can contribute to the root's damage such as excavation and construction projects as they can loosen the soil that could lead to shallow root systems.
Perform Scratch or Break Test
One of the easiest ways to determine the health of a tree is by performing a scratch test. With a small knife, scratch one of the tree's branches, and if it shows green and moist flesh, then your tree is in good shape. Do this to some more branches in different parts of the tree, and if they all show the same result, you've got a healthy tree.
 
How to Tell if a Tree is Dead in the Winter
It can be extra challenging to tell if a tree is dead or not in their dormant stage because most trees could appear dead in winter. It would help to look for signs of buds on the branches because healthy trees have buds even in winter. You can also use the scratch test to identify a dead tree in your yard.
 
Why are Dead Trees an Issue?
The issue of dead trees go beyond aesthetic reasons but more importantly, on the risk, they pose not just to your property, but human lives. There are plenty of reasons why you should not think twice in having your dead tree removed, and we had them compiled for you.
Disease/ insects can spread to other trees
One of the major culprits for a dead tree is a disease. If your tree is diseased, the other trees surrounding it are also in danger of getting infected. Diseases can quickly spread among trees, which can result in more dead trees in your yard.
Attracts insects/pests
Dead trees don't only infect healthy trees with diseases, but they can also draw a swarm of dangerous insects and pests. Rats and termites often make dead trees their refuge, and soon enough, they will be invading your home, too.
Dead branches falling
If your tree is dead, it would have dead branches. A dead branch can fall anytime and cause injury to pedestrians or damage to your property.
Dead Trees can be A Hazardous
Aside from dead branches falling, you should also be concerned with the entire tree ultimately toppling over. Dead trees have compromised the structure and can fall entirely to the ground or anything close to it. If a dead tree is near power lines, buildings, or roads, it can mean a disaster when it finally falls. It is best to have a dead tree removed before the worst scenario happens.
 
How to Determine if a Dead Tree Should be Removed
In most cases, a dead tree should be removed, but there are instances when it is okay to leave it be.
If it is in a remote place, you can leave it alone: Dead trees in these areas can be home to different wildlife.
If 50% of the tree is damaged, it should be eliminated: Trees in this situation may be beyond recovery, so it is best to have them removed.
Near hazardous situations: For safety reasons, a dead tree near power lines or other fixed structure should be removed immediately.
If it could be advantageous to other trees near it: Will removing the tree benefit trees surrounding it? If the answer is yes, then remove it by all means.
 
What to Do If You Have a Dead Tree
If you are certain your tree needs to be removed (or even if you are not), it is best to contact your local tree removal company to get the job done. Professional tree removal companies have certified arborists who can tell you whether your tree can still be salvaged or if it needs to be removed. They can provide you with the estimate for the service to be performed so you can decide what options you have with the tree.

 Tree care can be challenging on different levels. It requires skill and experience because there are risks involved that cannot be neglected. For this reason, tree care should be left to the expert hands of tree professionals. However, hiring a tree company to handle the job is not as easy as well. How can you tell if the company is the best choice for the role? What is the assurance that you can get the best service and the best value for your money? To help you make a sound decision on who you should hire for tree care, here are some of the most critical questions you should ask a tree service company.

1. Do they have the latest certificate of insurance and a copy of their contract? Some homeowners who fail to ask this question fall victim to companies that are not insured. This is essential information about the company because you don't want to be held liable if anyone gets injured or anything gets damaged in your property while they perform tree care.
2. What are their credentials? Do not consider a company unless they have an in-house arborist who is certified by an International Society of Arboriculture or Tree Care Industry Association Accredited Business. If they fail to provide you with their credentials, jump to the next company on your list.
3. Can they provide you with references? Every reputable tree company would have a list of their satisfied clients and can offer you some, upon request. Look for recent referrals because you can get more reliable information from them.  Further ask for referral relative to the service you require.  That is, if you are considering a tree removal service then ask about past customers that use them for that same service.  
4. Can they provide you with a detailed written estimate? Don't stick with just one company. Get at least three written estimates from different companies. The estimate should outline information about the details of the service including the duration and its cost.
5. What equipment will they use? A professional tree company will not use heavy equipment in your yard if they know it will damage your lawn and other plantings in the yard. It doesn't hurt to ask their policy about damaging any objects in your yard. You should also ask them about clean-up and what it includes.
6. How long will the project take? You should go back to the written estimate because companies can finish the job in different durations. You can hold them accountable in case they don't stand by their word in the written estimate.
7. Do they show professionalism? Notice the small details of a tree company. Do they maintain their tools and trucks? Do they reply or call back promptly when you contact them? You can also check their website, if they, to find out more about their services and history.
8. How long have they been in the tree industry? The more seasoned a tree professional is, the better he can handle any tree care needs you have.
9. Do they practice "topping?" If they do, run away from them because topping can have irreversible damage to the health of your tree. An experienced tree company knows the right technique in trimming and pruning, which doesn't include topping.
10.  Do they use protective equipment while on the job? It is a must for tree experts to wear safety gears for protection. No matter how simple the task is, they are required by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to wear protective equipment.

​More than being unsightly, a dead tree can cause potential damage to your property and injure people around it. Do not wait for any of these unwanted events to happen before addressing the issue. Prevention is way better than a tree falling into your precious home or harming your loved ones.

Some homeowners opt to do their own tree removal to save on costs. Although handling your own tree removal may save you money, you may face a potential danger that you will find difficult to handle. If you don't plan ahead, you might not be ready where the tree will fall and this will cause harm not only to you but also to your property. Damages done by trees can be costly, so if you don't want to take the risk, it is better to use professional service. 

If the homeowner is confident that he can take care of the tree removal, he can definitely do it on his own. Once the process is done, he will be left with the tree stump. This is another difficult and rather messy task to fulfill. Stump removal is more intricate and complicated compared to tree removal because of the equipment that needs to be used. Further, the size and species of the tree stump will add to the challenge of removing it. If you decide to remove the stump on your own, you also have to deal with the debris and the wood that it will leave you with. You can haul it away, use as firewood, or you can throw it away. If you think tree stump removal can be too overwhelming for you, contact your trusted tree care service to assist you with it.

Letting the experts handle tree removal for you is still the most ideal way to go. They've been doing the process for years and they already know the right process that should be followed to ensure that your tree will be taken down efficiently and safely. They not only have the skill, but also the proper equipment to effectively remove the tree and the stump, as well.

If a tree is large (over 20-30 feet in height), please call Pensacola Tree Service LLC to a free tree removal estimate. Large trees can be very dangerous to remove, so please let our experts handle it for you.