The ABC's of Tree Service: Tips for Everyone

When to Have a Tree Removed Versus Simply Trimmed

9 October 2015

Roberto Palmer

Having a tree removed from your property may not be an easy decision, as trees provide shade and may make your property seem more homey and inviting. However, trees can also cause damage when they're diseased or dead and branches start to fall off, or when roots may pose a risk to your property as well. Note a few considerations for when you may want to have a tree removed from your property versus trimmed. 

1. When roots are near plumbing pipes

You can have roots trimmed back when they're approaching plumbing pipes or have already wrapped themselves around these pipes and are causing damage, but remember that roots just grow back. You may find that you need to have these roots trimmed every few years, and this can mean digging up your lawn and disrupting the environment on a regular basis. It may be better to simply have the tree removed and, if desired, placed elsewhere on your property or have it replaced with a smaller tree with shorter roots.

2. When it's not the right variety for the climate or location 

A tree may be struggling to thrive simply because it's not the right type of tree for the climate or its environment. If it's been planted by a landscaper, he or she may not have done their research to see if this type of tree would thrive, or you may have chosen this type of tree for its appearance alone. As an example, poplars and eastern red cedar trees are very intolerant of shady or dark areas; they need lots of sunlight to thrive. Planting these in areas with very short summers will often mean a tree that just won't thrive no matter what you do; it may be better to have it removed and replace it with a more appropriate variety or species.

3. When the tree is damaging the environment

It's often thought that all trees are very healthy for the environment, but in truth, trees that have an insect infestation or that are home to pests may actually be damaging the environment, as these pests may also feed on nearby vegetation. An oversized tree that is blocking sunlight can mean vegetation that doesn't thrive, and too many leaves and needles dropping can also mean covering over vegetation under the tree so that it doesn't get needed sun. While a tree can be good for the environment in many cases, there are times when it's better for your property to have it removed altogether.

If any of these situations sound familiar to you, it's time to call a tree removal company to come take care of your problem tree for you. 

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