6 Factors Influencing the Cost to Take Down a Tree in New Jersey

When it’s time to remove a tree, every homeowner has the same question: how much will it cost? Unfortunately, the answer isn’t so cut and dry. Tree removal costs can vary widely depending on several factors, from the tree’s size and location to the complexity of the job. Let’s take a closer look at what influences the cost of taking down a tree in Morris County, NJ, and why no two removal projects are the same.

Key Takeaways:

• Some of the primary factors influencing the cost to take down a tree include the tree’s size, location, and condition.
• Tree removal prices vary depending on the equipment the company plans to use and the size of the crew they need.
• Tree removal costs may fluctuate based on the season and how much demand a company has.
• Be aware of prices that seem too good to be true, as they often come from companies that cut corners.

6 Factors That Influence the Cost of Taking Down a Tree in Morris County, NJ

The cost of tree removal can fluctuate greatly depending on several factors. When we examine your trees, we’ll look at these factors and use them to estimate the project’s total cost. The six most important factors affecting the price of professional tree removal include:

1. The Tree’s Size

The taller and wider a tree is, the more removal will cost. Some of the reasons why a larger tree has a higher cost to take down include:

• We may need to use more specialized equipment during the job.
• We’ll need more crew members.
• It’ll take more time (smaller ornamental trees typically take a few hours, while removing a large mature oak tree may take a team an entire day).
• It will take longer to rig the tree for safe limb disposal properly.

2. The Tree’s Location

The ideal tree removal is one that’s in an empty field with nothing near it. We’d simply cut the tree at the base and let it fall to the ground in a process we call felling. While this may be possible on a farm in a rural area, it isn’t usually the case in Morris County. Much of our area is suburban or urban, and space is at a premium in yards. Your trees needing removal are at likely at risk of damaging things like:

• Houses
• Fences
• Utility lines
• Outdoor furniture
• Patios
• Porches
• Neighboring property

Any nearby structures will complicate (and increase the price of) removal. We’ll have to use different equipment and specialized techniques to avoid causing damage to anything nearby.

3. The Tree’s Condition

While we generally prefer to avoid removing healthy trees, we understand this is sometimes necessary when it’s the wrong tree for the area. Removing healthy trees is generally less expensive than removing a dead one. The biggest reason is the risk involved for our team. Take an ash tree that emerald ash borers (EAB) killed as an example. These trees are very brittle and hard to work with. We will have to use different techniques to protect our team and your property from collateral damage during removal.

Additionally, a severely leaning tree is more dangerous and difficult to remove than a healthy one.

4. The Equipment We’ll Need

Most reputable tree removal companies have access to high-tech equipment to aid in tree removal. Gone are the days of using only a chainsaw to remove a tree. Some of the equipment we use includes:

• Tree-removal cranes
• Grapple saw
• Bucket trucks
• Woodchippers

We choose what equipment we use based on the needs of your tree and its location. Equipment can affect the price, though much of our state-of-the-art equipment makes the job much more efficient.

5. The Size of the Crew and Time

When we examine your trees, we’ll develop a plan for how big our crew will be, and estimate how long it will take. We’ve handled lots of tree removal over the years, and our team has gotten pretty good at figuring out the project’s scope.

In general, simpler tree removals (trees in wide open spaces or that are healthy) will take less time and necessitate a smaller crew.

6. The Season and Our Schedule

Many homeowners don’t know tree removal is a year-round service. In fact, winter tree removal is often better than removal in other seasons. One of the best reasons for winter tree removal is a tree removal company’s more open schedule. Tree care companies are often busy with things like fertilization or insect control from the spring to the fall. Meanwhile, in winter, companies focus on tree pruning and removal.

Some companies offer discounts during these times with more schedule flexibility. They may also be able to schedule your tree removal sooner than they would in other seasons when they have plenty of jobs on the schedule.

WARNING: Many fly-by-night companies offer deep discounts on tree removal. These deals sound too good to be true because they are. These companies will cut corners, and they could leave you with a mess on your hands. Learn more about picking the right company with our previous article on the topic.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tree Removal

Tree removal is a complex subject that homeowners have many questions about. Let’s look at some of the common questions we hear from our customers.

When is the best time of year to remove trees in Morristown, NJ?

Winter is typically the best time to remove trees in Morristown, NJ. Some of the benefits of winter removal include:

• Less busy schedules for tree removal companies
• Frozen ground allows for easier equipment access
• Less debris to clean up

Do I need a permit to remove a tree in Morris County, NJ?

Many municipalities in Morris County, including Morristown, require tree removal permits. A reputable tree removal company should guide you through the permitting process and let you know if a permit is required for your specific project.

Why do tree care companies have to do in-person estimates for tree removal?

An in-person assessment allows tree care professionals to accurately evaluate the tree’s size, health, and location while considering the overall scope of the project. Factors like nearby structures, accessibility, and potential hazards are often difficult to gauge through photos alone. Seeing the tree in person ensures a more accurate estimate and a safer, more efficient removal process.

Have a Tree That Needs to Come Down? Alpine Tree Offers Safe and Reliable Removal in Morris County, New Jersey

Tree removal can be an expensive proposition for New Jersey homeowners. However, the cost of taking down a tree will depend on various factors, including how long it takes to remove the tree, the project’s difficulty, the tree’s size, and the tree company’s schedule. Always be wary of prices that seem too low, as they may be from companies that don’t follow the proper procedures or carry the necessary insurance.

The team at Alpine Tree knows how to remove a tree safely and efficiently without overcharging our clients. We also carry the proper insurance and always follow the best practices to reduce the risk of accidents. Call us today at 973-964-7798 or request an estimate online.