Tree removal in Louisville

Two trees of the same size can cost very different amounts to remove. The price follows the work, and the work depends on what is under, around and inside the tree.

What moves the price

• Height and trunk width. Bigger trees mean more cuts, more rope work and more wood to haul.
• Condition. Dead or hollow trees break in odd ways, so crews slow down.
• What sits below. Roofs, fences, decks, gardens and lines make a crew lower pieces by rope instead of dropping them.
• Access. A wide gate or alley lets in a bucket truck, crane or loader. Tight backyards mean carrying everything out by hand.
• Cleanup. Hauling logs and chips costs more than leaving wood stacked.
• Stumps. Grinding is often priced on its own.

How crews take a tree down

With open space, a crew can fell a tree whole, which is fastest. In most Louisville yards, a climber or bucket truck takes it down in sections. Near houses, each piece may be tied off and lowered. Some jobs use a crane to lift big sections over a roof, which can cost more per hour but finish faster.

Ask before you hire

• Proof of liability insurance and workers' comp
• A written price that lists cleanup, hauling and stump work
• How they will protect the lawn, driveway and beds
• Whether an ISA certified arborist is on the crew, if you also want advice on other trees

City trees

A tree in the strip between the sidewalk and the street may be Louisville Metro's. Check with the city before removing one.

Timing

Winter can be a good time for removal. Leaves are off, the ground is often firm, and crews may have more openings. After big storms, expect waits for anything not urgent.

Getting ready

Move cars, grills and patio furniture away from the tree before the crew comes. Tell them about septic lines, sprinkler heads and buried pet fences.

Near the wires

Tree on a power line? Stay back at least 30 feet and call 911 or your utility.

The service drop from the pole to the house is treated differently from main lines. LG&E serves most of Louisville; ask them about work near their lines. source