10 best tree removal companies in San Marcos, Texas

Healthy trees add 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 San Marcos can use their equipment and experience to help you safely remove a tree from your property.

It's crucial to remove diseased trees with higher fall risk, as well as trees impacting your home's foundation and structural integrity. The task, however, is extremely hazardous if done improperly. Trying to do the job alone could lead to property damage or personal injury.

Tree removal experts have expertise in the proper cutting techniques and employ specialized tools to remove trees in compliance with local regulations. By choosing a reputable tree removal company in San Marcos, you can trust that the job will be completed safely and to a high standard.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in San Marcos

Look for tree removal companies in San Marcos 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?

When a tree shows signs of severe damage or decay, or if its roots have gotten too close to your home, removal is often the optimal decision. The number of decayed trees in San Marcos is comparatively high compared to other parts of the country. If you observe any of the following signs, consider hiring a tree removal expert.

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

Leaning trees and trees with raised dirt surrounding their trunk bases are at higher risk of falling. Contact a tree removal professional as soon as possible to review the extent of the damage and safely remove the tree if necessary.

What is a hazard tree?

Hazard trees, also known as danger trees, contain structural defects beyond repair, making them more prone to fall. Falling trees can cause significant property damage and gravely hurt people and pets. Signs of a structural defect include large cracks, dead branches, rotten wood, loose bark and hollow cavities near the tree base. If you suspect your property has a hazard tree, schedule a tree removal service immediately.

What other tree services might you need?

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

• Wood chipping: Tree removal professionals often use wood chippers to break down tree trunks and branches. If you choose, you can use the chips as mulch to improve your other plants' growth.
• 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 remain. You can grind the stump down so what's left of the tree can decompose. A more expensive option is to completely remove the stump, which guarantees the tree won't grow back.
• Landscaping services: Some tree removal professionals double as landscapers. If you hire one of these companies, you could install a replacement tree or level the area where the stump was located.

How to choose the best tree removal service in San Marcos

Follow these steps to make the most informed tree removal company decision for your needs.

Ask whether the company has a licensed arborist on staff

Arborists are scientific experts that help you care for your trees. They may recommend restoring the tree's health 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. Texas does not require arborists to be licensed, 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 get certified. 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, ensure it has comprehensive insurance, including general liability, business liability and workers compensation. This coverage can financially protect you if an accident happens. City and county governments often set their own tree removal licensing laws. Texas doesn't license these companies at the state level. We recommend contacting San Marcos building officials and your county to ensure a prospective contractor complies with the requirements.

Request a tree risk assessment

Getting a tree risk assessment (TRA) helps you determine whether tree removal is a good decision and can underscore the benefits of removing a potentially hazardous tree. After you request a TRA, an arborist will evaluate your tree's potential to fall and what damage could come from a fall. The arborist will first visually assess the tree from a distance to search for obvious signs of damage. They will then walk around the tree to inspect its roots, trunk and crown. Some arborists use specific equipment to study the tree's insides.

Get a free estimate

Most tree removal companies provide complimentary consultations and price quotes. Collect quotes from at least two providers and compare rates to find the best value.

Read reviews from homeowners

Ask people you know for tree removal company suggestions. While a personal recommendation can be helpful, it's important to read online reviews on Yelp, Google Reviews and BBB before making your choice.

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.