Consumer Advice:
Professional Tree and Limb Removal Service
Why you need it, and how to obtain it
Introduction
Trees are one of the most valuable assets of a property owner, whether the property is a small subdivision lot or a large ranch. And it’s a long-term resource: A tree takes years or decades to grow, and once a tree has been improperly pruned, or removed, the damage is done - It’s irreparable.
Thus, it definitely pays in the long run to have a landscape design plan, a maintenance plan, and access to a professional such as Weems Tree & Landscape Service.
What should you, the homeowner, do beforehand?
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DO: Have a long-term plan for your landscape. As trees are removed, have a plan for replacing them. Know the types of trees best suited for your landscape and lifestyle – small flowering trees, fruit trees, or those that provide shade from the hot Texas summers. Talk with an arborist for recommendations, and establish regular service with a company such as Weems, not only for trimming, but also for planting and regular care. Especially if you have trees that are aged or diseased, an arborist can help determine what special care is needed to keep the trees and your landscape healthy and vigorous.
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DON’T assume you can do tree trimming or removal yourself, as this is a dangerous task, whether using manual tools or power tools such as chainsaws. A professional can save you time, and hospital bills!
What to do when you need tree and/or limb removal help?
First, get a clear picture in your mind, and on paper, what type of work you need done. List the trees and/or dead limbs to be removed, and map out the areas of the yard involved, including work site access. Remember that low hanging or dead limbs need attention as they can fall under the weight of severe wind or ice storms like we experience here in Tyler and East Texas.
Once you have your requirements determined, locate a qualified, honest, insured, and experienced tree service. Consider the following:
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Talk to and check references on more than one company. Talk to your neighbors and check online resources such as Angie’s List, and other resources.
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Get more than one estimate for the work you need done, along with references of the company providing the estimate.
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Determine ability to perform your work and if the company has done this type of work in the past, and possesses the equipment and properly trained personnel. For example, can they perform tasks such as large tree removal, and stump grinding?
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Understand the work area involved. Make the contractor walk your yard with you so the contractor knows exactly what trees need work and what is being removed. Draw out how the areas in which the contractor will be working and how the contractor will access those areas.
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Is there a certified arborist on staff? A certified arborist can make sure your trees are properly cared for. And, if you have trees that are aged or diseased, an arborist can recommend special care to keep the trees and your landscape in good shape
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Proof of insurance. Make sure the company’s policy adequately covers property damage and injuries that could occur on your property. You might also ask how long their insurance has been in effect – 20 years, or 1 day! Some companies have been known to secure insurance in order to obtain a project, and then cancel it the next day. Just beware!
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Safety Measures and Training. What types of safety measures does the company take, both to protect workers and your property? What safety gear and equipment will the workers use? Have the workers been trained in the use of equipment they will be using?
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Stump, limb and debris removal and disposal. Will the company remove debris, or are you responsible for removing it? If you want mulch, will there be a charge for you to keep it, or for the company to spread it?
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Last, but not least: Get the Quote in Writing! Before any work is done, have a signed agreement with the contractor regarding the terms, conditions, cost and other details of the project.
During the Work
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Make sure you’ve cleared the work and access areas of furniture, toys, lawn ornaments, cars and other items to protect against damage from falling trees, limbs and debris.
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Watch the contractor! Make sure the job specifications are met before he leaves the premises.
Some final things to keep in mind when looking for professional tree service:
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Be wary of any tree service that recommends “topping” as a first choice. Topping can reduce the life-span of a tree, it is not attractive, and it doesn’t reduce maintenance. A tree can regain its original height within two years, especially here in East Texas with our long growing seasons.
- When massive wind or ice storms hit, as they often do in Texas, tree service professionals, plumbers, roofers and hauling companies are in high demand, and the best performers are generally the busiest. Beware of a contractor with time on its hands, or that solicits you at your door, when every other company does not have time to even answer the phone!
Call the landscape experts today at Weems Tree and Landscape Service! Experienced, qualified, and fully insured!
Ben Poole, General Manager
903-597-2118 Toll Free: 877 398-5725
Fax: 903-597-6118
9311 County Road 35
Tyler, TX 75706 |
Financing Available
