You've got some trees on your property, and maybe they're looking a little shaggy. Or perhaps they're just getting too close to the house. Good for you for thinking about getting them trimmed! It's an important part of keeping your property safe and healthy, no doubt about it. But I've seen a lot of folks around Hot Springs make some pretty common mistakes when it comes to tree trimming. And frankly, some of them can cost you a lot more than just the trimming itself. So, let's talk about what to watch out for, shall we?
Hiring the Cheapest Bid (Without Asking Questions)
This is probably the biggest one. Everyone wants to save a buck; I totally get it. But when it comes to tree work, the cheapest bid often means corners are getting cut. You might think, "A trim is a trim, right?" Wrong. A low price could mean they're not insured, they don't have the right equipment, or they're just not actually qualified. If someone shows up in a beat-up truck with a chainsaw and offers you a deal that seems too good to be true, it probably is. You're inviting someone onto your property with dangerous tools, after all. What happens if they fall? What if they drop a limb on your roof or your neighbor's fence? If they're not insured, that's all on you. Always ask for proof of insurance – liability and workers' comp. And don't just take their word for it; ask for a certificate directly from their insurance company. A legitimate business won't hesitate to provide it, trust me.
Not Understanding What "Trimming" Actually Means
There's a big difference between a proper structural prune, a canopy reduction, and just hacking off branches. Some folks just want their trees "thinned out" or "cut back." A good arborist will know the right way to prune a tree to improve its health and appearance, without damaging it. Bad trimming, like topping a tree (cutting off the main leader branches), is a death sentence for most trees. It creates weak points, encourages unhealthy growth, and often leads to more problems down the road. You'll see this a lot with older cottonwoods around the river or in the older parts of town; someone topped them years ago, and now they're just a mess of weak, vertical sprouts. Make sure the person you hire understands tree biology and practices proper pruning techniques. They should be able to explain exactly what they plan to do and why.
Ignoring the Details in the Quote
You get a few quotes, and they all say "tree trimming." But what exactly does that include? Does it cover stump grinding? What about hauling away the debris? Will they rake up the small stuff, or just leave it for you? I've seen homeowners surprised when a crew finishes, leaves a pile of wood chips and branches, and then charges extra for removal. Make sure your quote is detailed. It should specify:
- Which trees are being worked on.
- The type of pruning (e.g., deadwood removal, crown reduction, structural pruning).
- What happens to the debris (chipping, hauling, leaving firewood).
- Cleanup expectations.
- Total cost, with no hidden fees.
At New Look Tree, we make sure everything is clear upfront so there are no surprises.
Waiting Until It's an Emergency
This isn't really a hiring mistake, but it definitely leads to them. People often wait until a branch is scraping the house, or a storm has already damaged a tree, before they call anyone. When you're in a panic, you're more likely to make a rushed decision and hire the first person who answers the phone, regardless of their qualifications or price. Proactive maintenance is always cheaper and safer than emergency work. Get those trees inspected regularly, especially after a harsh winter or a really dry summer, and address issues before they become urgent.
Trying to DIY Big Jobs
I know, you've got a chainsaw, you've watched some YouTube videos. You think, "How hard can it be?" Trust me, it can be very hard, and very dangerous. Tree trimming, especially for larger trees, involves working at heights, with heavy, unpredictable branches, and powerful tools. One slip, one misjudgment, and you could be seriously injured or worse. Not to mention the damage you could do to your property or your tree. Leave the big stuff to the pros. It's just not worth the risk to save a few bucks.
So, next time you're thinking about getting your trees trimmed, take your time. Ask questions. Get detailed quotes. And don't just go with the cheapest option. Your trees, your property, and your wallet will thank you in the long run.