FAQs
Do you give free estimates for tree work?
Yes, we always are happy to provide complimentary quotations. Our quotes are on a fixed-fee basis to eliminate any risk in unexpected costs on your end.
Can you give me an estimate for pruning or tree removal over the phone?
Unfortunately, we are typically unable to estimate work over the phone due the customer nature of each project. Pictures work on occasion, but more typically we will need to see the tree and its surroundings in person to get you an accurate price.
Do you offer winter discounts?
Yes, we are typically able to offer better pricing during the winter months. The lack of leaves, as well as the frozen ground, can lead to jobs taking less time than at other times of the year – and we pass those savings on to you!
Do you accept credit cards?
Yes, we accept payment by credit card at no additional charge.
Do you offer a discount for payment in cash?
Yes, we do. Please give us a call for details – cash discount offered is specific to each specific project.
Do you work in the winter/snow/rain?
We work year-round through all types of weather conditions. However, we may shift our schedule during particularly harsh weather, not only for the safety of our crew, but also for the health of your trees and landscape. For safety reasons, we are unable to work during lightning and/or strong winds.
What time of the year is best to cut or prune trees?
The best timing for tree work really depends on the type of tree. But, generally speaking, pruning is best done when the tree is dormant which typically is during the winter months, early Spring, or late Fall.
Does someone need to be home when the work is done?
No. We often do work when people are not home– we’re often told that people only knew we were there because the area is cleaner than they left it.. However, we also don’t mind spectators as well, as a tall tree removal or pruning can be entertaining to watch for those who haven’t seen it done before.
How far out are you booking for tree work?
We do our best to meet any deadlines that you may have. Our goal is to book a little thin to leave room for emergency and/or time-sensitive jobs. We do our best not to push people back. By booking a little thin we are often able to pull jobs forward and get them done sooner if people are flexible. Scheduling times vary quite a bit throughout the year however.
How long will the job take?
The length of time required to properly and safely complete tree work will vary based on a lot of factors. 90% of our jobs are accomplished within 1-day! We will definitely discuss timing with you during and/or after an estimate is completed.
Do you have a certified arborist on staff?
We do not currently have a Certified Arborist on staff. If your trees are diseased or infested by insects and you intend to save them, you require the specialized services of a licensed arborist– their services are far more costly, but highly necessary for these diagnoses and treatment programs nonetheless. However if you require tree removal or routine tree trimming, we are the experienced and more affordable option to consider. Some will try to convince you otherwise, however it is the level of experience and insurance coverage that protects you for a tree removal or trimming contract.
Do you have insurance?
We are fully insured with $2M in liability insurance that specifically covers tree work, as well as Workers Compensation insurance. We’re happy to provide proof of coverage upon request.
Is it cheaper to have you leave wood or take it away?
This choice is always left up to the homeowner, however there typically is no savings as we would otherwise put the firewood to good use elsewhere.
Is there a cost for cutting wood into smaller lengths (e.g., for firewood)?
No charge for this – we typically cut all logs onsite to 14 to 18-inch length logs, before stacking it or hauling it away.
What level of clean-up do you provide following a tree removal?
Our “final cleanup” consists of removing all branches, wood, and wood shavings from the tree(s) that we service on your property. We rake and blow the entire work area, including the roof if affected.
Will there be a stump left after the removal of my tree?
Yes. The height of the stump is determined by the size of the tree removed. Generally speaking, smaller trees under 24″ in diameter may result in a 2″ stump above the soil line; trees between 24 and 36″ in diameter may result in an 2-4″ stump above the soil line; large trees beyond 36″ in diameter will have even taller stumps. We do offer stump grinding as an added service if desired.
What are my payment options?
We will send your invoice via email upon completion of the project. If requested, a hard copy can be sent via mail. We accept credit cards online or over the phone, checks or money orders by mail, or cash in person at the time of service
Can you remove trees without damaging my lawn?
A few small divots are typically left in the lawn following completion. If you prefer to pay a premium for our “no-drop” service, we will include the additional labor when estimating.
Can you handle large jobs?
Yes, we can accommodate the smallest job up to the biggest job as we have a large staff of two full crews capable of any job.
How long does it take to receive an estimate?
It usually takes approximately 2-3 business days to receive an estimate. This of course depends on how busy we are.
How are property damages handled?
On rare occasions, damages do occur. Yard damage, siding damage, driveway damage, etc. We are proud to say that our damage costs are extremely low for the high volume of work that we do, and that we provide quick and full resolution in all cases where we are at fault. Depending on the situation, this could be handled by a deduct from the service cost, or a processing through our insurance provider in the rare instance that this is needed.
Do you haul stump grindings away?
We are one of the few who provide full clean-up of grindings with each and every stump grinding. Be sure to take this into consideration when comparing costs for stump grinding, as you’ll likely be left with a very large mess otherwise! After we’re through, the customer is responsible for placing the final layer of topsoil and seed over the top — we recommend this is done after the ground has sufficient time to settle.
How do I contract for services?
Simply email us or give us a call with your approval, and we will add you to our upcoming schedule. For larger jobs a deposit may be required upfront, however more typically no payment is needed upfront to lock in your service into our schedule.
What do I do if a tree extends over my property line?
We suggest speaking with the neighbor about trees or limbs that protrude onto or away over your property line. Wisconsin law allows a neighbor to trim any/all protruding limbs at the lot line without explicit permission, however it’s always a good idea to have them onboard beforehand. For a tree originating on your property but extending over, you of course have the right to remove the entire tree– for this, we often employ creative ways of rigging limbs down to avoid affecting the neighbor’s property.
Do I need a permit to remove a tree?
Not typically. This requirement depends on the size and the location of the tree, whether the tree is a hazard, whether it is a street tree, an invasive species, etc. We will certainly help you determine whether permits apply and assist you in obtaining them for any prospective project.
Is stump grinding necessary?
While not usually required, stump grinding is often a good idea. Neglected stumps can grow, become a home for pests, and get in the way when mowing or landscaping. Other methods, such as using harsh chemicals to try to kill it, usually prove ineffective.
Can you work on my tree near power lines?
Yes, we are experienced in working around power lines. On occasion, we also coordinate with local utility companies to assist us in working around power lines. That may include requesting the electric company to cover power lines, temporary drop the electrical service line, or trim limbs that are directly touching the high voltage lines. Any coordinated work required will all be included within your quotation from us.
When will my tree work be scheduled?
Once we have received confirmation that you’d like to proceed with the tree work, we will add you to our prioritized schedule and provide you an approximated timeframe. Typically we will call or email you several days prior to coordinate the date and time of arrival. We prefer this type of floating schedule to allow your work to be expedited to the soonest available opportunity, rather than your date being subject to weather cancelations.
Can you provide me with a list of references?
Yes, we’d be happy to provide you the names and contact information for some of our recent customers.
Do you offer any discounts?
We typically offer package discounts for multiple trees or neighbors’ projects, as well as a discount for cash payment at time of service.
Who comes to perform the quote?
We have two estimators, Jeff Kenney (the owner of the company), as well as Cory Hanson (our full-time crew leader and quotation specialist). Both of our estimators have a wealth of knowledge about the tree industry and years of experience to answer questions on your specific application.
Should i treat the cut ends following a tree trimming?
In general, no. Painting or tarring the area where cuts were made (called wounds) doesn’t necessarily help it heal. Trees naturally seal over wounds to protect themselves, and coating the wounds of the wood before it has had the chance to seal naturally could affect the tree’s natural ability to seal. The artificial coat can also crack over time allowing insects to get in and cause damage.
Can I save money by having you just drop the tree?
Potentially yes, we do offer “cut and drop” services on occasion. This means when we trim or remove the tree we literally leave the logs and debris where it falls and not cut anything to length. You should be aware however, the falling tree debris typically leaves a huge mess. The estimator can include this option as an alternate (deduct) if desired.