10 best tree removal companies in Merced, California

Healthy trees contribute to your home's curb appeal and create a shady retreat in your yard. Unhealthy trees, however, can jeopardize your property. Tree removal may be necessary if it is diseased, decaying 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 Merced 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 lead to serious injury and costly property damage.

Tree removal specialists have expertise in the proper cutting techniques and use specialized tools to remove trees in compliance with local regulations. By partnering with a reputable tree removal company in Merced, you can trust that the job will be completed safely and correctly.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Merced

Look for tree removal companies in Merced 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 encroaching on your home. The number of decayed trees in Merced is below average compared to other parts of the country. Consider seeking advice from a tree removal specialist if any of the following apply to your tree:

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

Leaning trees and trees with elevated dirt around their trunk bases are at higher risk of falling. Contact a trusted tree removal provider right away if you observe either of these signs, and have the tree professionally evaluated.

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 poses a significant risk to pets, property, vehicles and people. Signs of a structural defect include rotten wood, large cracks, loose bark, dead branches and hollow cavities near the tree base. If you suspect your property has a hazard tree, schedule a tree removal service as soon as possible.

What other tree services might you need?

Some tree removal companies offer a range of supplementary services beyond removing trees. These may include the following:

• Stump removal: Only the stump will remain following a tree removal. A professional might recommend removing the stump altogether based on the circumstances. They may also grind the stump so the tree's remnants decompose more quickly. Stump removal is more expensive than grinding, but it guarantees that the tree won't regrow.
• Wood chipping: Tree removal professionals can use wood chippers to shred tree trunks and branches. You can use the chips as mulch for your flower beds.
• Debris removal: Debris like logs, leaves and branches is often left behind after tree removal. Some companies can use dump trucks or flatbeds to haul debris away.
• Landscaping services: Tree removal contractors sometimes offer landscaping services. They can assist in covering holes left over from stump removal or plant a fresh tree where your old one stood.

How to choose the best tree removal service in Merced

Find the right tree removal company for your project by considering these factors.

Ask whether the company has a licensed arborist on staff

Arborists are scientific experts that help you care for your trees. They may recommend health restoration services for your tree or removal if a tree has a high fall risk. Arborists can also offer valuable insights on moving, pruning and planting trees for optimal growth and well-being. California does not require arborists to get a license, so we recommend looking for an arborist certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Arborists must have three years of field experience and pass an exam to obtain the certification. ISA-certified arborists have the skills, experience and knowledge to remove your tree.

Make sure the company is licensed and insured

Tree removal companies should have extensive insurance coverage, including workers compensation, general liability and business liability. These policies help protect you, your property and the company’s workers in the event of an accident. In California, a tree removal professional must have a Tree Removal Contractor license through the Contractors State License Board. Ask potential tree removal service providers about their licensing before hiring them.

Request a tree risk assessment

By getting a tree risk assessment (TRA), you'll receive expert recommendations on whether removing a tree is essential. The assessment also details the risks of keeping a potentially hazardous tree. After you call for a TRA, an arborist will assess your tree's fall risk and what damage could come from a fall. The arborist will first look at the tree from a distance to identify obvious signs of damage. They will then circle around the tree to inspect its roots, crown and trunk. Some arborists use specialized equipment to study the tree's insides.

Get a free estimate

Many tree removal contractors offer free consultations and service estimates. Obtain quotes from at least two providers to assess their prices and recommendations.

Read reviews from homeowners

Ask family, neighbors and friends for suggestions on nearby tree removal companies. Even with a referral from someone, it's still important to research a company's reputation by reading reviews on sites like Yelp, Google Reviews 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.