10 best tree removal companies in Harker Heights, Texas

Healthy trees contribute to your home's curb appeal and create a shady retreat in your yard. Unhealthy trees, however, can compromise your property. Removing a tree may be necessary if it is decaying, diseased or threatening your home's architecture. Tree removal is also important for mitigating fire risk, as dead trees are more flammable than live ones. Licensed tree removal professionals in Harker Heights can use their equipment and experience to help you safely remove a tree from your property.

Removing diseased trees and other trees with high fall risk is critical for your property's safety. However, attempting to tackle the project yourself could result in serious injury and expensive property damage.

Tree removal experts know the proper cutting techniques and use specialized equipment to remove trees according to local regulations. By working with a reputable tree removal company in Harker Heights, you can have more confidence that the job will get done safely and properly.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Harker Heights

Look for tree removal companies in Harker Heights with at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews and a good rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB). Use the filters below to help you find the right company for your needs.

How do you know a tree needs to be removed?

You should trim or remove a tree if it’s showing signs of severe damage or decay, or if it’s growing too close to your home. The number of decayed trees in Harker Heights is high compared to other parts of the country. Contact a tree removal expert if you see any of the following signs:

The tree's roots are making your home's foundation lift or crack. The tree's trunk or branches are cracked and won't heal. The tree has damage from heavy rain or thunderstorms. The tree is dropping far more branches, leaves, seeds, sap or needles than usual. The tree has mold, pests or diseases weakening its structure. The tree is severely burned or visibly dead. The tree or its offshoots are dangerously close to your home, garage or shed.

If you see raised dirt around the base of the tree trunk, or if the tree is visibly beginning to lean, it's in danger of falling. Contact a tree removal professional immediately to evaluate the tree and help remove it if necessary.

What is a hazard tree?

When a tree has irreparable structural defects that put it at high risk of falling, it becomes a hazard tree, sometimes called a danger tree. A falling tree could damage or injure people, vehicles, pets and property. Signs of a structural defect include dead branches, large cracks, rotten wood, loose bark and hollow cavities near the tree base. If you have a hazard tree on your property, don't wait to get it taken down as soon as possible.

What other tree services might you need?

Some tree removal contractors offer a range of extra services in addition to cutting down trees. These may include the following:

• Debris removal: After tree removal, there will be a lot of branches, leaves and logs to get off your property. A contractor can use flatbeds or dump trucks to remove debris faster.
• Stump removal: Once the removal crew finishes cutting down your tree, only the stump will be left. You can grind the stump down so it will more easily decompose. A more expensive option is to completely remove the stump, which guarantees the tree won't grow back.
• Wood chipping: As the team removes your tree branch by branch, they might use a wood chipper to shred the tree parts. Consider giving the tree a second life by using the chips as mulch for your garden.
• Landscaping services: If you hire a tree removal company that provides landscaping services, the team could help fill up holes or install a fresh tree.

How to choose the best tree removal service in Harker Heights

Use these considerations to make the best tree removal company decision for your needs.

Ask whether the company has a licensed arborist on staff

An arborist is a scientific expert who can study your tree's needs and advise you on the proper care. This can include revitalizing its health or removing it if it's in danger of falling. Arborists also provide recommendations for pruning, transplanting and planting trees. Texas does not require arborists to hold a license, so we recommend looking for an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Arborists must have at least three years of experience and pass an exam to obtain the certification. ISA-certified arborists have the knowledge, skills and experience to help with your tree removal.

Make sure the company is licensed and insured

When hiring a tree removal company, make sure it carries comprehensive insurance, including workers compensation, business liability and general liability. This coverage can financially protect you if an accident happens. City and county governments often set their own tree removal licensing regulations. A contractor in Harker Heights doesn't need a state license if tree removal is the only service they offer. We recommend checking with Harker Heights building officials and your county to ensure a prospective contractor is properly licensed.

Request a tree risk assessment

By getting a tree risk assessment (TRA), you'll receive professional advice on whether removing a tree is required. The assessment also outlines the risks of keeping a potentially hazardous tree. To perform a TRA, an arborist starts by identifying clear signs of damage from a distance. Then, they'll circle around the tree, closely inspecting the crown, trunk and roots. Sometimes, arborists use specialized gear to study the tree's interior.

Get a free estimate

Many tree removal contractors offer free estimates and consultations. Obtain quotes from several providers to assess their prices and recommendations.

Read reviews from homeowners

Ask friends, family and neighbors for recommendations for tree removal services near you. It's also wise to read online reviews on sites like Google Reviews, Yelp and BBB.

Our methodology for selecting tree removal companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.