When a tree becomes unsightly or unhealthy, or is in a place where it could fall on a home or other structure, it may be time to remove the tree. A skilled arborist can remove a tree with minimal damage to the surrounding area. Arborists also specialize in stump grinding, which removes the remains of the stump after the tree is cut down and removed.

The decision to remove a tree is not always easy, but should be considered carefully. An unhealthy or dead tree can be a serious hazard, especially in a storm. A dying or dead tree can also pose a threat to children and pets. Some trees are just too big for the location, and removing them is a great way to open up space on your property.

In general, you should have any unhealthy or dead trees on your property removed as soon as possible. Dead and dying trees are often prone to falling over, which can cause significant damage to homes or other structures on your property. The longer you wait to remove a tree, the more likely it is that the condition will worsen, making it even harder and riskier to remove.

You should also consider tree removal if the tree is near other living things or structures, such as a house, garage, barn, or utility lines. A tree that is too close can easily fall and cause damage, or can simply block your view or inhibit your lawn from growing.

If a tree is unhealthy and needs to be removed, an arborist should be called in for consultation. The professional will examine the tree, determine whether it can be saved or not, and provide recommendations for next steps. If the tree is beyond saving, it will be removed using special machinery to keep it from damaging nearby structures. This can add up to thousands of dollars, depending on the type of tree and its height.

Before a tree can be removed, the area around it must be cleared. It is important to make sure there is enough room for the tree to lie flat once it falls. You should also plan escape routes in case the tree falls unexpectedly, and take care not to damage anything else with the equipment that will be used to fell the tree.

A good practice is to enlist a lookout while you are cutting down the tree. A lookout can stand a few feet back and monitor the movement of the tree, so that you know when it is about to fall. This is particularly important if you are working with a large, tall tree, such as a redwood or oak.

Once the tree is removed, the stump can be ground out with a stump grinder, which you can rent from most home improvement stores. The process is usually quick and simple, but it is best to have a professional do the work so that you are not at risk of injury or damage.