We highly recommend hiring a professional tree care company to take down a tree. But if you are confident that you can tackle the task yourself, then you should equip yourself with the proper tools to complete the job. Just a heads-up, you will have to spend some money to acquire the appropriate equipment necessary to cut a tree safely and efficiently. Below are the tools and equipment you need to purchase to remove a tree.

Tree cutting must-haves
It will be difficult and even impossible to trim or remove a tree without a high-quality chainsaw. If you are looking to cut a relatively small tree, you can use an ax to finish the task. But, if you want to get the job done fast, the use of a chainsaw is more suitable.

Gas-powered chainsaws vs. Electric Chainsaws
The chainsaw is one of the leading equipment used in taking down a tree. You will have to consider two types of chainsaws when you decide to buy one. Your choice is between a gas-powered chainsaw and an electric chainsaw. Gas-powered chainsaws are more portable. However, it will be challenging to determine the correct ration between gas and oil. Many property owners don't opt for a gas chainsaw, not only because they have to spend extra for gas, but also because it is not entirely eco-friendly. You don't have to worry about these things if you choose an electric chainsaw. One downside of using electric chainsaws is you need to have extension cords handy whenever you use them. The extension wire should be long enough to reach the tree you need to remove. This situation can be both a nuisance and hazardous. For instance, the cord may not be too long to access and electrical outlet, or you may accidentally trip over it and cause unwanted injuries.

As far as the price is concerned, it depends on the quality and power of the chainsaw. Naturally, the more powerful the chainsaw, the more costly the equipment will be. Some models can cost $100 or more, but these models usually are too lightweight to carry out a tree removal job. If you want a heavy-duty chainsaw that can tackle tree felling jobs, prepare at least $300 to $400for the equipment.

Other Tools and Equipment
Aside from a chainsaw, there are other tools that help make the tree-felling task more efficient and convenient:

• Ladder- you need this for larger trees
• Rope- You have to secure parts of the tree down to the ground
• Ax- An ax can do the trick if you only have a small tree to remove
• Wedges- Wedges, partnered with an ax and a chainsaw can make the tree removal process easier
• Protective equipment- regardless of the type of chainsaw you will use, it is crucial to protect yourself from debris and other elements. Wear gloves, hard hat, goggles, and boots while on the job
• First aid kit- you never know when accidents can happen, so it is best to be prepared with a first aid kit

Optional Cutting Equipment
After the tree is cut down, you have to think about the portions of the tree. If you have the extra money in your pocket, you can purchase a residential wood chipper. Prepare between $700 and $1500, depending on the size of the wood chipper.

When you have a tree in your yard that has been with you for decades, the thought of having it removed is not just scary, but heartbreaking as well. It is hard to think that the tree that once provided shade in a hot summer day needs to be cut down. No matter how much we don't want our trees eliminated, sometimes it is necessary. Trees need to be removed for a variety of reasons, including your safety and the beauty of your landscape.

In some cases, removing the tree is more of an investment; for example, you are trying to sell your house. Buyers will not be encouraged to buy a house with a dead tree in the yard. That is why if you have a tree in your yard that you suspect to be in a poor health condition or is posing a threat to your safety, it is time to inspect it and consider tree removal.

If you aren't sure whether your tree needs to be removed or not, here are seven reasons your tree needs to be removed:

1. Your tree has poor health or dead- This is one of the most apparent reasons for tree removal. If you notice dying branches in the crown of the tree or the trunk begins to show symptoms of decay, then tree removal should be done immediately.
2. Your tree was storm-damaged- Storms can impact your trees in the most destructive way. If your tree suffered from storm damage, you should not think twice and have it eliminated right away. There could be hanging branches that can fall at any time and cause damage or injury to any of your loved ones.
3. There are splitting or cracking in some parts of the tree- You should never neglect signs of cracking or splitting in your tree. If you see these signs, you should contact a tree expert for advice.
4. Your tree is growing too close major structures- Inspect your tree and assess if it is growing too close any fixed structure such as your house or utility lines. It is definitely dangerous for a tree to grow near these structures that is why it is imperative to have them removed before they cause any accidents. Leave this job to the professionals because the task is too risky to be handled by an average homeowner.
5. Your tree is disrupting the growth of the other plantings in your lawn- Although we love the shade trees provide us, plants in the yard need sunlight for them to grow. In this case, tree removal is necessary to save the rest of the plantings in your lawn.
6. Significant aging- Trees are amazing. Some of them can live for as long as 5,000 years, depending on their species. As they age, their health is also affected, and their health eventually declines.
7. Pest and insect infestation- If pests and destructive bugs infest your tree, it should be removed before it affects the healthy trees in your yard.

Call Jacksonville Tree Service for a free tree removal estimate.  

If you are up for an ultimate coastal eco-adventure, Jacksonville is the place to be!  We have the most extensive urban park system that will take you from riverfront views to the local wildlife you will only experience in Jacksonville.

Don't we all want our trees to grow to its full height? They give us a sense of protection and warmth, and we want to be able to see them bloom to its fullest. However, what if your tree's limbs and branches grow to close to your property? Is it time to be alarmed? Safety should always come first. If you see drooping limbs on your roof, you should safely fix it before it becomes a problem.

What is the Risk of Overhanging Branches on Your Roof and How to Prevent Damage
It is dangerous to have limbs hanging over your home or any structure in your property because of the following reasons:

• During windy days, branches that are touching your roof can scrape and strip off layers of asphalt on your roof shingles.
• Leaves that fall directly to your roof can cause mold build up and lead to leaks and damage.
• If a storm hits a damaged or diseased tree, it can fall onto your home.

Is It Your Tree or Your Neighbor's Tree?
You should not plant a tree too close to your home without considering its height and width when it reaches full maturity. But what if your neighbor's tree is touching your home? In most cases, you can trim branches that are within your lot area, regardless if it is planted in your neighbor's yard. However, make sure to consult with your neighbor first because there can be some limitations to this case. Remember that you will be liable for any harm incurred by the tree, so always practice caution.
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How to Remove a Tree Limb Hanging Over Your House
If the limb is hanging over your roof, make sure that you will remove it with utmost care. One wrong move and it will end up on your roof. If you plan to do it yourself, you may put yourself in danger, and it can be expensive to do repairs because of one mistake you did. For this reason, we always recommend hiring a certified arborist to do the job for you. Make sure the company is insured and licensed for your protection. They are well-trained for scenarios like this, and they will be able to take care of the tree and do what needs to be done to keep you and your property from harm. Also, in case there would be any damage, their insurance will cover the cost.

Jacksonville, FL is a diverse and interesting city.  Here are 12 days of things to do and see the next time your visit the area.
 
Day 1
Calling all water adventure lovers! You can explore the St. Johns River and other beaches in Jacksonville with your loved ones by joining a local tour. You don't need to have your boat to enjoy the beaches or the Intracoastal Waterway. You only need to visit the place and ready yourself for a day filled with fun and enjoyment.

Day 2
Jacksonville is big on sports, so if you are a fan, you can catch an exciting game by Jacksonville Giants or the Jacksonville Icemen. You can watch a game for as low as $10.

Day 3
Jax is known for its wide array of local breweries. Tag along your drinking buddy and explore the beer options the city offers.

Day 4
Jacksonville has something in store for the art lovers. There are over twelve museums located in Jax, and each one offers unique exhibits that guests of all ages will enjoy. There are interactive exhibits and classes which tourists can join. If you are a lover of art, go ahead and get yourself an annual membership to any of your favorite museums.

Day 5
You can do a lot of water adventures in Jacksonville including surfing in one of the world's best beaches to go surfing. Recently, Surfline named Jax as one of the Best Surf Cities in the World.

Day 6
Jacksonville is all about art, including performing arts. There are eight concert venues and theaters around the city, so whether you want to see a play or watch your favorite band perform, Jacksonville has something in store for you.

Day 7
You can also go shopping in one of Jacksonville's shopping districts. With the variety of choices, we are sure that there is one for everyone. You would be helping the local businesses when you buy from the local retail stores.

Day 8
Ready your camping supplies and head to the camping beachside for a night of bonfire, hot dogs, and fun. You will appreciate Florida's when you see its natural beauty.

Day 9
There's a lot for water lovers in Jax. You can go fishing on a chartered trip in its water teeming with big fish. Don't worry if it's your first time because you will be with professional fishers and they will teach you how to catch that fat-bellied fish.

Day 10
If you want to explore the city but you don't know where to start, you can join a tour with a guide. You can learn about the rich history of the town and even explore the beaches in this tour.

Day 11
Do you want to learn how to make candy? How about joining a DIY workshop? You can enter both at Sweet Pete's and Creative Grain. There are other more fun and interactive classes you can participate including Painting with a Twist and The Studios at Florida School of Holistic Health.

Day 12
No trip is ever complete without a sumptuous meal. Whether you want to dine in a high-end restaurant or relax in a homey fish camps, you can find a place to satisfy your craving.

For more information about Jacksonville, click here.  

Trees are amazing gifts of nature. They give us so much and we can benefit from them a lot. In return, we need to give them the proper care that they need, so they can thrive longer and healthier. Trees may need different kinds of caring depending on their species and age, and even their location. Pruning is one very important technique to maintain your tree's health and appearance. That is why it is highly recommended to prune the tree regularly to keep it healthy. Another factor to consider when pruning a tree is where it is located. For example, trees in Jacksonville, Florida are recommended to be pruned only after 2-5 years after being planted. Then after that, you can prune it 1 to 3 years, depending on its type. Just be aware that trees in Florida mostly have shallow roots, so it is important to allow them to root first.
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It is crucial to know the proper pruning technique to avoid harming the tree. You should cut at the collar of the branch where the branch attaches to the main trunk. When you do this, you also lessen the chance of decay to spread into the main trunk of the tree.  Also, always wear proper protective attire when performing tree pruning and use the proper tools to avoid injury. 

• Prune for Strength- eliminating multi-trunks and leaders will stimulate the growth of just one main trunk. It is also important to remove any diseased or injured branches or limbs.
• Prune for Form- prune the tree to restore its beautiful form. Eliminate the excess lateral branches to produce a ladder effect when the tree matures. 

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If there is one thing that professional arborists don't do to a tree is topping. A huge amount of the canopy is removed from the tree during topping. After it is done, you are only left with branch stubs that can attract pests and insects. 
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This practice is mostly done to pave way for structures and vehicles; however, this is a poor pruning practice. Excessive lifting removes most of the lower branches that will, in turn, cause the tree to be top heavy and will increase the risk of branch failure. Further, it deforms the tree. 
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Do not choose just any tree service that offers you their service. It is vital to know the right people to do your tree care because it can be dangerous and it involves risks. Choosing the wrong tree company will cost you more money and may damage your property. Here are some of the thing you should consider when selecting a tree company:

• The tree company should have a Duval County License and don't hesitate to ask for documentation
• Should have good reviews on Yelp, Google, and listed in Yellow Pages
• Has insurance for property damage and personal liability. Again, ask for documentation.

Do not trust easily. Always ask for proof before selecting a tree service company in Jacksonville, Florida.  

​Trimming a tree is an excellent way to ensure the trees remains healthy as well as preventing damage to nearby property.  A tree service in Jacksonville, Florida, can trim diseased limbs, limbs hanging over your roof and power lines. If you wish to trim some of the smaller trees in your landscape, consider these critical tree trimming dos and don’ts:

• Always wear the proper safety gear, such as pants, long sleeves, gloves, and safety glasses.
• Don’t try to cut limbs too high or near electrical lines; call in an expert in these cases.
• Do trim off diseased and dying limbs as soon as you see them.
• Don’t use any sealing or patching material as your tree should be able to naturally heal itself.
• Do delay in trimming a flowering tree until it has bloomed for the season.
• Don’t trim a tree in Jacksonville the same year you planted it.
• Do consider trimming a tree after a storm to eliminate damaged limbs.
• Don’t trim too much wood at one time. Trim less than twenty-five percent of the tree.
• Do trim your shrub to address overgrowth but avoid over-trimming them. 
• Don’t use climbing spikes to trim a tree - they will damage and even kill a tree.
• Do make flush cuts at the collar when you are removing whole branches.  
• Don’t be shy about calling a professional tree trimmer, even if the job seems small.  

With these dos and don'ts, trimming smaller trees on your property should be easy and rather straightforward.  A good rule-of-thumb is to always call a professional tree service whenever your feet need to leave the ground.  A typical property owner is generally out of their league when needing to climb a tree to trim it.  Further, never use a ladder to trim a tree, especially if you are using a chainsaw.  Utilize a tree service in Jacksonville, Florida whenever you are faced with these more complex (and dangerous) situations. 

​You might have had a tree removed in your backyard and now you are left with the tree stump. One of the first things you need to decide on when removing a tree is whether the tree service professionals will also remove the stump or not. If you are still unsure you will have it removed or just let it sit in your backyard, consider these things to help you make that call. 
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​Stumps can be hazardous, especially to your children. Think of the number of times you can trip over a stump in your landscape. Children who are running around can overlook the stump and get seriously injured. Further, it can destroy your lawnmower if you are not careful and do not see the tree stump.
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​If you are concerned about the aesthetics of your landscape, then removing a tree stump is worth considering. No matter how meticulously your lawn is maintained, a sight of a stump can instantly ruin its overall appearance. Removing the stump can drastically improve your landscape. 
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​A tree stump can house a number of pests and you do not want that to happen in your property. When a stump is left in your yard, it will take time for it to decay completely. During the process of its decay, the stump invites insects like termites, ants, and beetles. They can eventually expand in your residence if not removed. 
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​Tree stumps that are left lying on the ground become a bother. It is hard to move around when you know there is a stump that can trip you over or worse ruin your lawnmower. 
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​Not removing a stump may cause new trees to sprout. If this happens, many small trees will grow in the area where the stump is located. This will not look good in your landscape. It will also cost you money when the new sprouts always come back. You may need to use chemicals to totally get rid of them. In addition, these trees get nutrients from plants that are situated near them. They not only take away from the appearance of your landscape but also cause potential harm to other trees. 
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Stumps can use up space in your property. This is especially bothersome if you only have a small yard. You should be aware that if you have a large tree stump in your yard, the area near it cannot be useful. The stump is just the tip of the iceberg; you still have the root system to deal with. Just think of what other things you can do with the space the stump occupied. You can put a picnic table in that area where the stump is.
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Tree stump removal is not something amateurs can do. If you have a tree stump in your property that you want to be removed, hire a respected tree removal company to do the job for you.  

Jacksonville Tree Service offers efficient and affordable stump grinding and removal services.  Call for a free estimate.  

​Tree removal is a big and heavy task.  It can also be complicated, dangerous work, which is why most property owners opt to hire a tree care expert to perform this job.  Tree service professionals have the required expertise and skills that enable them to perform the removal of trees efficiently and safely.   However, in addition to expertise and experience, especially with large, mature trees, the right equipment is necessary for effective removals.  Jacksonville Tree Service has a complete fleet of tree removal equipment that enables us to deal with any size tree.  Further, we have the experience and expertise to utilize this equipment safely and efficiently.  
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​If all tree care work could be performed from the ground, many more property owners would consider performing their own work.  Further, the process would be that less complicated.  However, both in trimming and tree removals, large jobs often require tree workers to gain access to the canopy of the tree.  Therefore, cutting down a tree generally cannot be done without the proper equipment.  We have all the necessary equipment to perform tree trimming and removals effectively and efficiently.   This equipment includes bucket trucks and cranes, when necessary.  With this equipment, we can reach up to heights of over 90 feet.  Property owners should realize this equipment is not inexpensive to purchase and maintain; and therefore, is a good sign the company you are considering using is professional and well equipped to perform any job.  
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Sometimes, however, it is not the height that is the largest challenge, but instead the ability to gain access to the tree.  Tree in tight quarters, fenced backyards, etc. can be difficult or even impossible to reach.  While fences are great for pets and children, in terms of keeping them safe, they aren't great for tree service access.  In situations like these, we have both the right equipment that can fit into tight spaces but also the expertise to climb a tree without equipment, performing our same high-quality tree services.  Our Trac equipment can access spaces as thin as a 44-inch opening.  With our climbing experience and first-class equipment, there are no trees that we cannot trim or removal safely and efficiently.   

Every tree is different and likewise unique in how we approach trimming or removal it.  We love these types of challenges.  Tree care work demands flexibility and creativity in planning as well as execution to perform the job correctly.  At Jacksonville Tree Service, we have all the necessary equipment (and experience) to professionally deal with any complex and difficult tree situation.  Often times, our skills and experience are most put to the test during emergency service, where trees have fallen on property structures, such as roofs.  Having bucket trucks and cranes allows us to safely remove the damaged tree without any further property damage.  

Call the tree service Jacksonville property owners trust to perform high quality, professional yet affordable tree care.  Click here to contact us or call for a free estimate at 904-274-5388.

Selecting a tree service company in Jacksonville, FL need not be difficult if you follow these suggestions when you do your research.  Regardless if you need a large tree removal or merely require a few trees to be trimming, using these tips when evaluating tree service businesses will help you avoid the potential pitfalls common in using unscrupulous companies.   
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The tree service industry has a number of professional organizations that will signify the level of commitment a tree service company has to their business.  Organizations such as the International Arborist Society and the Tree Care Industry Association provide certifications and continuing education.  Any professional tree service business will be a member of one or more of these organizations.  Ask during your estimate what memberships they hold.  
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Reputable tree service companies will always provide a written estimate.  The estimate should include the details of the work to be done and equipment to be used.  Unprofessional companies will often just provide a verbal estimate, and then inflate the price after the work has been done.  Don't fall victim to one of these companies - only use a tree service contractor that provide a written estimate.
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Professional tree service companies will be both licensed by the state as well as insured.  The insurance coverage they should provide evidence of include worker's compensation for their employees as well as liability coverage.  The worker's compensation provides you with the assurance that if an injury would occur in the performance of their work on your property that will be held harmless; otherwise if the company does not have worker's compensation, your homeowner's policy may be required to provide coverage.  The liability insurance is necessary should there be property damaged during the tree work.  Again, without this coverage, your homeowner's policy would need to cover the damage.  Always request copies of these two policies.  
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Always ask for first-hand, recent customer references.  Also make sure they are no older than 3 months, as old references may not be as valuable.  Also check online review sources, such as the BBB, Yelp, Google, and Facebook - these sources will give you a sense of their overall customer service.

Following these suggestions will help you weed through the various tree service companies in Jacksonville, FL the next time you need tree work done.