Tree trimming is important for the health and appearance of your trees. Trimming regularly helps the tree to grow healthy and also improves the structure of the tree and prevents potential hazards. If you’re looking for a professional tree trimming service, one of the first questions you will likely ask is, How much does tree trimming cost?
In this article, we’ll discuss the factors that determine the cost of tree trimming, average price ranges, and what to expect when hiring a tree trimming service.
What Is Tree Trimming?
Tree trimming is the process of removing branches from a tree to encourage a better shape, health, and safety. The service can be done on both residential and commercial properties to make certain that the trees are kept in good condition and do not harm persons, buildings, or other plants.
Tree trimming may involve:
• Removing dead or diseased branches: It helps to stop the spread of disease and promotes good growth.
• Shaping the tree: To prune the tree into a form that is more aesthetically pleasing.
• Crown thinning: It enhances air circulation and penetration of sunlight for the tree.
• Reducing size: Removing large or overgrown branches to keep them from infringing on buildings, power lines, or roads.
The Cost of Tree Trimming can Vary Depending on a Variety of Factors
The price of tree trimming can be influenced by several factors. Knowing these variables will give you a better idea of how accurate the estimate is when you ask a professional tree trimming service for a quote.
1. Tree Size and Height
One of the biggest factors in determining the cost of trimming is the size of the tree. The more labor, equipment and time it takes to trim the tree, the more expensive it is to trim the larger trees. The cost to trim trees over 20 feet tall will be higher than that of shorter, smaller trees.
• Small trees: 10 to 15 feet tall
• Medium trees: 15 to 30 feet tall
• Large trees: 30 feet and above
The more complicated the trimming process will be the taller and larger the tree. For instance, if you are trimming a 40-foot tree, you will need more equipment like a cherry picker or a crane, which increases the cost.
2. Tree Type
The cost of trimming can also depend on the species of the tree. However, some trees are easier to trim than others and may need special techniques or tools. For example, coniferous trees such as pine and fir grow differently than deciduous trees such as oak and maple. Also, trees with dense foliage or susceptible to disease may need more attention, raising the price.
• Easier-to-trim trees: Slow growing trees such as fruit trees, small ornamental trees, etc.
• More challenging trees: Dense canopy hardwoods such as large oak, maple, and other hardwood trees.
3. Location of the Tree
The cost of trimming depends on where the tree is located on your property. The tree is in a hard-to-reach area, such as close to power lines, buildings or fences, then more care will be needed to safely trim the tree. If the trees are near structures or power lines, then tree trimming services may need to take more precautions, which will raise the price.
• Easy-to-access trees: Trees that are not near buildings or power lines and are simple to reach using common tools.
• Difficult-to-access trees: Trees close to buildings, fences or power lines that need special equipment such as a bucket truck or crane.
4. Tree Health and Condition
Also, the cost of trimming can be affected by the health and condition of the tree. Trees that are in good condition and relatively healthy will generally be easier to trim, but trees that are dying, diseased, or damaged may need extra attention. If the tree is diseased or has dead branches, there may be some additional work to take the diseased or dead branches off safely. However, this could add to the cost as it might require more time and equipment to safely trim or remove dangerous branches.
5. Trimming Complexity
Another factor that affects cost is the complexity of the trimming job. If the tree needs to be trimmed in a precise manner for shaping or removing certain branches, it will be more time consuming and laborious. In case of advanced techniques like crown thinning or tree height reduction, the job may cost more as it will need specialized tools and skills.
• Simple trimming: Removing dead or overgrown branches.
• Complex trimming: Crown thinning, shaping the tree, or height reduction.
6. Debris Removal
Debris removal is often included in a package of tree trimming services, but some companies may charge a fee to haul away branches and other waste materials. If you want the trimmings removed from your property, be sure to ask if the removal is part of the initial price or if there is an additional fee for debris removal.
7. Time of Year
The cost can be affected by the timing of when you schedule the tree trimming. Spring and summer are busy times for tree trimming services as trees are growing. Conversely, tree trimming companies may offer discounts or lower prices during the off season (usually fall and winter), as demand is low.
Average Cost of Tree Trimming
The cost of tree trimming varies greatly depending on the above factors.
But there are some average price ranges that you should expect:
Small Trees (up to 15 feet)
• Cost: $75 to $400
• Trimming small trees is the least expensive because they take less time and fewer tools. Trimming a small tree is usually less than an hour’s work, so it’s a more affordable service.
Medium Trees (15 to 30 feet)
• Cost: $150 to $800
• Medium sized trees take longer and more effort to trim because they have thicker branches and thicker canopy. The price range for medium trees may vary depending on the condition of the tree, its location and complexity.
Large Trees (30 feet and above)
• Cost: $300 to $1,500
• Trimming large trees is the most expensive because of the additional labor and equipment required. Big trees might need the use of cranes, bucket trucks or climbing equipment, which is very expensive.
Hourly Rates
Some tree trimming companies bill by the hour especially for smaller or less complicated jobs. The hourly rates for tree trimming vary from $50 to $100 per hour depending on the location, size of the tree and the expertise of the company.
Saving on Costs of Tree Trimming
Although tree trimming may be costly, there are ways to save:
1. Bundle Services: If you require other tree services such as tree removal or stump grinding, consider combining them together for a discount.
2. Schedule in the Off-Season: Fall or winter is the best time to schedule tree trimming because of the reduced demand that will help you save on costs.
3. Maintain Your Trees Regularly: Regular trimming helps to avoid severe over-growth which makes subsequent trimming jobs more expensive. Regular care of your trees can help cut down on the amount of money that is spent for each individual service.
4. Get Multiple Quotes: Never forget to request quotes from a number of trees trimming companies to compare prices and services before making a choice.
