Why Should You Hire A Professional Arborist To Prune Your Trees?

Trees are a great focal point for any garden or front lawn. A home with well-maintained trees is more attractive and more valuable. However, tree maintenance such as cutting and pruning might be risky. It's advisable to err on the side of caution when it comes to tree trimming and have a professional do the job. And make sure you're using an actual arborist instead of just a landscaper. Arborists are trained professionals who focus on the health of trees. They have the necessary gear and skills to perform their work in a safe manner. Here are some of the most compelling arguments in favour of having a certified arborist perform tree maintenance in your yard.

If you prune your tree improperly, it could suffer irreparable harm or possibly die. When it comes to maintenance, no two trees have the same needs. To ensure your tree is trimmed properly, use an arborist who has extensive knowledge of trees and their requirements. Diseased trees are another common problem, but arborists are trained to identify and treat them.

Why Is Tree Pruning So Important?

There are a variety of reasons to prune a tree. The first and foremost is ensuring the safety of those in the area. Dead tree limbs pose an immediate threat to persons, property, and electrical wires below. The best course of action is always to remove hazardous branches and keep a tree in good condition. But the act of pruning itself can be perilous, depending on the tree's size and the placement of the branches to be cut. If you're not completely confident in your pruning skills, you should probably let a professional handle it to avoid endangering yourself.

Structure And Growth Of Trees

There are a number of reasons why it's important to prune a tree. Trees can be pruned to alter their growth patterns. By removing dead or diseased branches and reshaping the remaining ones, you can make a tree stronger and more stable. Preventing damaged limbs and falling branches can be achieved by keeping the tree's structure in good shape. Trees that have been properly pruned will not have brittle branch systems or unequal weight distribution. The aesthetic value of a tree can also be greatly improved through structural pruning. Sculpting the growth of a tree for aesthetic purposes requires pruning.

When To Prune

Pruning should ideally be done in the late fall or winter, when the plant is dormant (other than in the case of emergency branch removal). When the tree is dormant, it is most resistant to damage from trimming. Like any other living thing, trees can suffer from stress, and it is true that cutting off branches can harm the tree itself. However, less sap is lost when the tree is dormant, and insects and fungi are less likely to cause more damage because they are also dormant at this time. Pruning of some tree species requires a more accurate time and distinct methods. Call a professional tree service if you have any doubts about the safety of a tree you intend to work on.

Less Is More

You should also avoid cutting off too much of a tree's branches when pruning. In most cases, you should prune only as much as necessary to get the job done. Trees draw their energy from their leaves, so never remove more than a quarter of the crown when pruning. Overzealous pruning could result in irreparable damage to the tree. Again, if you want the job done right and safely the first time, a licenced arborist is your best bet.

What Safety Equipment And Gear Do Arborists Use?

Really interesting question. In terms of protective equipment, what do arborists use? The homeowners and the Arborists both ask this question. Before engaging a tree service firm, a homeowner should inquire as to whether or not they provide all necessary safety equipment and gear. In addition, when the tree service crew arrives, take a glimpse at their uniforms and tools to ensure they are adequately prepared for the job.

When it comes to tree care, there is a large selection of tools available. Paying close attention to the finer points is essential in this industry, since many dishonest people pose as legitimate businesses offering tree care services. Everyone is capable of climbing a tree and performing basic tree maintenance tasks such as cutting, trimming, and pruning. Even homeowners can do this, but having the right equipment doesn't automatically make you an expert in tree care. Many professionals in the field take offence when others use the term "arborist" to describe themselves, as becoming one requires extensive study and training in tree care practises and, perhaps more importantly, in the use of specific pieces of machinery.

Experts in tree care, or "arborists," have completed rigorous academic training. For them to be able to offer tree services, they must first complete extensive and continuous training and obtain the necessary certifications. When it comes to diagnosing, treating, and preventing illnesses and other problems that typically affect trees, a Certified Arborist is like a real-life tree doctor.

Arborists Use The Necessary Tools And Protective Gear

Working with trees is a high-risk occupation. It's the primary argument for why it's best for homeowners to employ a tree service rather than attempt tree maintenance on their own. You'll need some practise and familiarity with tree anatomy to pull this off well. A true Arborist will have the experience and understanding necessary to climb a tree safely, to utilise the appropriate rigging system and saw, and to ensure that the cut limbs and branches fall in a secure area below.

Most arborists who regularly work in the field have strong preferences for particular equipment manufacturers. In most circumstances, a tree service will supply its employees with all the tools they need to do their jobs; but, some Arborists go above and beyond by purchasing items like boots and safety glasses for themselves. However, there's some wiggle room when it comes to the tools you'll need, as each tree service team member must have their own set of safety gear.

We'll go over the many tools an arborist could need to take care of a tree, as every member of a tree service crew has their own unique responsibilities and toolsets. As a homeowner, you should insist that anyone working on your trees wears safety gear designed to keep them from being injured by chainsaws, including goggles, earplugs, gloves, and heavy clothes.

4 Types Of Equipment That Arborists Use

Tree Trimming Equipment: When the crown of a tree has to be lowered or the canopy needs to be lifted, tree trimming is often undertaken. The home tree care industry relies heavily on this technique. Trimming trees around your property can improve its visibility and aesthetic appeal. If a tree's branches are touching nearby buildings or if its low branches are blocking pedestrian walkways, it may need to be trimmed down. Generally speaking, tree pruning is done to improve the tree's aesthetics by making it look more streamlined and organised without causing any damage. The tools an arborist uses to trim trees are similar to the tools used to cut them down.

• Pruners
• Pole saws
• Hatchets
• Chainsaws
• Tree loppers
• Saw scabbards
• Wood chippers
• Hydraulic tools
• Landscaping tools
• Axes and wedges of various types

Cutting Equipment: The use of cutting equipment is essential for every tree service business, whether they specialise in tree trimming or tree removal. When it comes to taking down trees, an arborist's strongest weapon is knowledge. Keep in mind that each tree is unique. Only a true Arborist will be familiar with the many different kinds of trees and the specific needs of each when it comes to pruning. In contrast to tree pruning, which is a type of treatment or repair, tree removal is typically only done as a last resort. To keep trees healthy is another use. An arborist may make use of any number of tools, including but not limited to

• Pruners
• Hatchets
• Hand saws
• Pole Saws
• Tree loppers
• Wood chippers
• Hand pruners
• Hedge trimmers
• Different chainsaws
• A variety of axes and wedges

Climbing Equipment: Important pieces of climbing gear might cause harm if they aren't used correctly. When taking care of trees, it's not the chainsaws or other cutting instruments that cause the greatest damage. Statistically speaking, climbing is significantly riskier than most people think. You may have heard about a tree worker who lost a limb or a hand because of a chainsaw, but if you ask the owners of tree services or arborists who work in the field today, they will tell you that the most dangerous part of their job is using the climbing equipment, specifically the risk of falling out of trees because of improper rigging or use.

True arborists know the necessity of frequently inspecting their climbing gear to ensure it is in good working order, both for their own safety and the safety of their clients, and they do this after every job. Climbing equipment, which is typically seen on the back of trucks used by Arborists and tree service firms, will typically consist of the following items in addition to the rigging equipment listed above:

• Saddles
• Straps
• Tails
• Spurs
• Eye slings
• First-aid kit
• Helmets/hardhats
• Work gloves to aid in grip
• Clothing for protection
• Communication radios
• Ascendants and Descendants
• Additional ropes, carabiners, and cable
• Goggles or glasses for protection

To do their jobs, Arborists rely on a wide variety of tools and machinery. Again, you need knowledge and experience to use these instruments securely. Properly employed, tree specialists are capable of securely and swiftly removing huge tree limbs and branches, pruning and removing trees, and completing essentially any other tree service-related project that may arise. When a tree service firm comes up to your house to perform maintenance, keep an eye out for these red flags. If you see that the crew members aren't properly equipped, you should be very wary about hiring them to complete the task or continuing to use their service.

Rigging Equipment: Climbing tall trees, lowering heavy loads of chopped branches to the ground, and moving power tools from the Arborist's perch in the tree canopy to the ground crew (sometimes referred to as "groundsmen") all necessitate the use of rigging equipment. Rigging equipment used in tree service includes:

• Swivels
• Winches
• Ring slings
• Carabiners
• Cable hoists
• Friction brakes
• Rigging plates
• Power pullers
• Blocks and pulleys
• Rigging thimbles
• Slings for light and large loads
• Ropes of various types and sizes

When Choosing The Best Arborist For The Job

The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and the Société Internationale d'arboriculture Québec (SIAQ) are two reputable professional organisations to look for membership in (ISA). Being a member of such an organisation shows that the Arborist is committed to keeping up with industry trends and developments.

Ensure the arborist has been certified by the ISA. In order to become an ISA Certified Arborist, candidates must demonstrate significant knowledge of tree care and pass a rigorous examination.

You should request proof of insurance and, if you are not satisfied, call the insurance provider. A professional arborist will have both liability insurance in case of injury or damage to property, and workers' compensation insurance in case of injury or illness to themselves.

Get your documents in order and ready to go. A licence or permit may be required from the relevant government agency prior to the start of work, and contractors may need to apply for this.

If you want to be sure the company is up to the task at hand, it's a good idea to check their previous work. You should not be shy about checking references or going to other job sites where the company or individual has done tree work.

If you don't know and trust the Arborist, it's best to get more than one quote. Getting accurate estimates may cost money and take extra time, but it is money and effort well spent.

Never automatically go for the lowest offer. To ensure the safety of your sizable investment, you should carefully evaluate the submitted bids by carefully reviewing the companies' backgrounds and stated specifications.

Be aware of anyone that knocks on your door offering low prices to trim your trees. These days, most reputable businesses are too swamped to actively seek out new clients in this way.

Always keep in mind that a professional arborist will only use accepted practises. Topping a tree, removing too much live wood, installing climbing spikes on trees that are not being removed, and chopping down or otherwise changing a living tree without good reason are all examples of poor tree care that go against industry standards.

Make sure you have it documented. Signing a contract is standard practise for any professional arborist worth their salt. Please read the agreement thoroughly. Never be shy about asking something like:

• When will the project begin and end?
• Who will be in charge of cleaning up?
• Is this the final cost?
• What are the payment terms?
• What is your hourly fee if I need more work done?

Conclusion

If you prune your tree incorrectly, it could die or suffer severe damage. Professional tree care is the speciality of arborists. Maintaining a healthy tree framework is the best way to avoid injuries caused by broken limbs and branches. As an added bonus, structural pruning can enhance a tree's aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, too much branch pruning can be detrimental to a tree's health.

Careless or excessive pruning could kill the tree. Again, hiring a professional arborist is your best bet if you want the task done correctly and safely. Although having the proper equipment is helpful, you will need help to make yourself a tree care expert. Experts in arboriculture, or "tree doctors," are trained to identify and address tree health issues. As with tree removal, the equipment utilised by an arborist for tree maintenance is also used for tree felling.

Everyone does their part in the tree care industry, yet they all use different equipment. When tending to trees, arborists rely on a wide range of equipment. Working at heights and using climbing gear is the most perilous component of their employment. Professional tree service crews can promptly and safely remove heavy debris from trees, such as large branches. Protecting oneself when employing such tools requires education and practice.

In the event of an accident or damage to property, a professional arborist will carry both general liability insurance and workers' compensation insurance. Look into joining either the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or the Société Internationale d'arboriculture du Québec (SIAQ). It would be best if you were wary of anyone approaching your door advertising cheap tree service. It's smart to get many quotes from Arborists if you don't already know and trust them. Any qualified arborist will sign a contract as a matter of course.

Content Summary

• It's advisable to err on the side of caution when tree trimming and have a professional do the job.
• And make sure you're using an actual arborist instead of just a landscaper.
• Some of the most compelling arguments favour having a certified arborist perform tree maintenance in your yard.
• To ensure your tree is trimmed properly, use an arborist with extensive knowledge of trees and their requirements.
• There are some reasons why it's important to prune a tree.
• When the tree is dormant, it is most resistant to damage from trimming.
• Call a professional tree service if you have any doubts about the safety of a tree you intend to work on.
• You should also avoid cutting off too many of a tree's branches when pruning.
• Again, if you want the job done right and safely the first time, a licenced arborist is your best bet.
• Before engaging a tree service firm, a homeowner should inquire whether they provide all necessary safety equipment and gear.
• When it comes to tree care, there is a large selection of tools available.
• Even homeowners can do this, but having the right equipment doesn't automatically make you an expert in tree care.
• A Certified Arborist is like a real-life tree doctor when diagnosing, treating, and preventing illnesses and other problems that typically affect trees.
• Working with trees is a high-risk occupation.
• It's the primary argument for why homeowners should employ a tree service rather than attempt tree maintenance independently.
• However, there's some wiggle room regarding the tools you'll need, as each tree service team member must have their safety gear.
• We'll go over the many tools an arborist could need to take care of a tree, as every tree service crew member has unique responsibilities and toolsets.
• An arborist's tools to trim trees are similar to those used to cut them down.
• When taking care of trees, it's not the chainsaws or other cutting instruments that cause the greatest damage.
• You may have heard about a tree worker who lost a limb or a hand because of a chainsaw. Still, if you ask the owners of tree services or arborists who work in the field today, they will tell you that the most dangerous part of their job is using the climbing equipment, specifically the risk of falling out of trees because of improper rigging or use.
• Again, you need knowledge and experience to use these instruments securely.
• When a tree service firm comes to your house for maintenance, keep an eye out for these red flags.
• Rigging Equipment: Climbing tall trees, lowering heavy loads of chopped branches to the ground, and moving power tools from the Arborist's perch in the tree canopy to the ground crew (sometimes referred to as "groundsmen") all necessitate the use of rigging equipment.
• Rigging equipment used in tree service includes: Swivels, Winches Ring slings, Carabiners Cable hoists, Friction brakes, Rigging plates, Power pullers, Blocks and pulleys, Rigging thimbles Slings for light and large loads, Ropes of various types and sizes, International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and the Société Internationale d'arboriculture Québec (SIAQ) are two reputable professional organisations to look for membership in (ISA).
• To become an ISA Certified Arborist, candidates must demonstrate significant knowledge of tree care and pass a rigorous examination.
• You should request proof of insurance and, if unsatisfied, call the insurance provider.
• A licence or permit may be required from the relevant government agency before starting work, and contractors may need to apply for this.
• If you want to be sure the company is up to the task, check their previous work.
• If you need to know and trust the Arborist, getting more than one quote is best.
• Be aware of anyone that knocks on your door offering low prices to trim your trees.
• Signing a contract is standard practice for any professional arborist worth their salt.