Below are some answers to commonly asked questions.

Why won’t you prune my Oak tree in the summer?

Oak trees are susceptible to a disease called Oak Wilt. This disease can be transmitted by beetles who are attracted to sap leaked by fresh wounds. Once introduced into live trees, the disease is spread by root connections to adjacent trees. At this time there is no cure for Oak Wilt. The Michigan DNR recommends no Oak pruning between April 15th and July 15. This is the primary transmission period. Pruning can be done outside of this period while the tree is in leaf, but some risk of transmission still exists. The best time to prune Oak trees is between the first hard frost, and early spring.

Why won’t you top my tree?

We strive to comply with the ANSI A300 standards. These are the “best practices” for tree care. The standards restrict actions such as topping. When our arborist quotes your project, the work quoted will be in compliance with these standards. This will be the safest and healthiest option for your tree.

Can you give us some wood chips?

Absolutely. Anytime we are chipping brush from a trimming or removal, we generate a lot of wood chips. Wood chips are a great eco friendly option for ground cover. If we are working at your house, just let us know where you would like us to leave them. If you see us in the area working, you can stop and ask to have the chips. They’re yours if the customers doesn’t want them. Unfortunately, we are unable to deliver chips to an area we aren’t working. This is due to the cost of time and fuel. If we’re not in your area and you still want chips, we would suggest creating an account with Chipdrop. This connects you with arborists in your area.

Do I need a permit to remove my tree?

That depends. If you live in an area with an HOA, or the tree is located between the street and the sidewalk, you may. If your tree fits either of those criteria, check with your HOA or local municipality.

Why can’t you provide a quote over the phone?

Tree removal and pruning activities are highly based on multiple factors such as; location, proximity to a drivable surface, nearby structures, electrical lines, size of the tree, etc. These factors will greatly influence the cost of the service. Our estimators will come to your site, factor in all the potential variables, and then provide you a free quote.

We have a quote from ABC Tree Service that is a lot lower than yours. Why is that?

There are multiple variables that affects the cost of conducting business in our industry. Our company has professional tools and equipment to safely and efficiency perform our work. These tools are built specifically for tree service companies. As such, they are very expensive to purchase, maintain, and repair. Some fly by night companies will show up with nothing more than a few worn out ropes and a chainsaw. You don’t want them working on your property, as they may be lacking the second most expensive aspect of tree work, insurance. Our company carries 2 million dollars in general liability insurance, and full workers compensation insurance for all employees. Our industry has one if the highest risk factors for insurance, probably due to the aforementioned fly by night companies. After they damage your property, or hurt an employee on your property, you will be left holding the bill and legal liability. Don’t ever let a company on your property that hesitates to provide a COI for their liability and workers company insurance.

Why do I need to sign a driveway waiver?

Anytime we have to utilize a crane to conduct your removal, we require a driveway waiver. This is due to a combination of the weight of the crane, the unknown thickness, and foundation condition of your driveway. Most residential driveways are not designed to withstand the weight of a large crane. This is a liability that we as a company cannot afford to absorb.

Why should I prune my tree, and when should it be done?

Pruning can be done for multiple reasons. To correct structural problems, improve esthetics, remove deadwood, etc. Most trees would benefit from some level of pruning. Pruning optimally should be conducted while the tree is dormant. This causes the least amount of stress on the tree. Trees in leaf can also be pruned, but you shouldn’t remove more than 25% of the canopy.

How will you remove my tree?

This depends on the tree, it’s location, and proximity to other trees and structures. Cut and drop is the fastest and cheapest option. It is also the option that typically causes the most damage to your lawn. Having the tree trunk and limbs roped down will protect the area around the tree, but the cost is higher. Our estimator can provide multiple price options so you can chose one that fits your budget.