What this covers
Tree trimming removes the wood a tree is better without: dead, broken, crossing or weakly attached limbs, and branches crowding the roof, the house or the street. The arborist decides which cuts to make, then a climber or a bucket truck reaches the canopy and cuts each limb just outside the branch collar, lowering heavy pieces on ropes. Careful work thins and raises the canopy without stripping it and never tops the tree. Branches near utility lines are left to crews qualified for that clearance.
When to call
- Dead or hanging branches in the canopy.
- Limbs touching or overhanging the roof, gutters or chimney.
- Low branches blocking a walk, a driveway or a view.
- A tree that took storm damage and needs its broken limbs cleaned up.
What to expect
- Walk the treeThe arborist marks the limbs to remove and explains why.
- Set upThe crew positions the climber or bucket truck and protects the ground below.
- PruneLimbs are cut at the branch collar and heavy pieces lowered on ropes.
- Clean upBranches are chipped or hauled and the lawn and beds raked.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
What is topping and why is it avoided?
Topping cuts the main limbs back to stubs. It weakens the tree and causes dense, poorly attached regrowth, so careful arborists thin and reduce the crown instead.
When is the best time to trim?
For many trees, late winter while dormant, because the structure is easy to see. Dead or dangerous limbs can be removed at any time.
How much can be removed at once?
A careful arborist removes only a modest share of the living canopy in one visit, so the tree keeps enough leaves to feed itself.
Related: Tree removal · Stump grinding · All landscaping and yard
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.