10 best tree removal companies in Stillwater, Oklahoma

While healthy trees improve your home's curb appeal and give your yard welcome shade, unhealthy trees pose significant risks for your property. If a tree is diseased, decaying or threatening your home's architecture, you may need to remove it. Tree removal is also important for mitigating fire risk, as dead trees are more flammable than live ones. To ensure your hazardous tree gets removed safely, turn to licensed professionals with the right equipment and experience.

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

Tree removal specialists are knowledgeable about the proper cutting techniques and employ specialized equipment to remove trees while adhering to local ordinances and permit requirements. Choosing a reputable tree removal company in Stillwater ensures that the job will be performed safely and properly.

Find the best local tree removal companies for you in Stillwater

Look for tree removal companies in Stillwater 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?

If a tree on your property shows indications of severe damage or decay, or if it's growing too close to your house, you may need to have it removed. The number of decayed trees in Stillwater is above average compared to other American cities. Consider contacting a tree removal specialist if any of the following apply to your tree:

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

If you notice raised dirt around the base of the tree trunk, or if the tree is starting to lean, it's more likely to fall. Contact a reputable tree removal company as soon as you can if you observe either of these signs, and have the tree professionally assessed.

What is a hazard tree?

When a tree has irreparable structural defects that put it at significant risk of falling, it becomes a hazard tree, sometimes called a danger tree. Falling trees can pose a serious threat to pets, property, people and vehicles. Rotten wood, dead branches, large cracks, loose bark and hollow cavities near the tree base are all indicators of structural defects. If you have a hazard tree on your property, don't wait to have it removed as soon as possible.

What other tree services might you need?

Tree removal companies offer a variety of services. In addition to removing trees, many companies offer the following:

• Stump removal: Once the removal crew finishes cutting down your tree, only the stump will be left. You can grind the stump down so what's left of the tree can decompose. A more expensive option is to remove the stump altogether, which guarantees the tree won't grow back.
• Wood chipping: As the team removes your tree limb by limb, they might use a wood chipper to further break the brush down. Consider giving the tree a second life by using the chips as mulch for your garden.
• Debris removal: Tree removal contractors can use flatbed or dump trucks to haul leftover leaves, branches and logs away from your home.
• Landscaping services: Some tree removal professionals double as landscapers. When working with one of these companies, you could add a fresh tree or cover the space where the stump was located.

How to choose the best tree removal service in Stillwater

Consider these factors to find the right tree removal company for your needs.

Ask whether the company has a licensed arborist on staff

A licensed arborist can assess your tree's condition and offer suitable solutions, such as restoring its health or safely removing it to mitigate fall risk. Arborists also provide guidance on pruning, planting and moving trees. Oklahoma 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 three years of field experience and pass an exam to earn certification. ISA-certified arborists have the skills, experience and knowledge to help with your tree removal.

Make sure the company is licensed and insured

When hiring a tree removal company, ensure it carries comprehensive insurance coverage, including business liability, general liability and workers compensation. This coverage protects you, your property and the company's employees if an accident occurs during the job. County and city governments often set their own tree removal licensing regulations. No state license is required for contractors in Oklahoma that only remove trees. We recommend checking with the Stillwater government and your county to ensure a prospective contractor complies with the requirements.

Request a tree risk assessment

To determine if removing a tree is the best choice, have a professional tree risk assessment (TRA). To perform a TRA, an arborist starts by searching for clear signs of damage from a distance. Then, they'll circle around the tree, closely inspecting the roots, crown and trunk. Sometimes, arborists use specialized gear to evaluate the tree's interior.

Get a free estimate

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

Read reviews from homeowners

Ask for tree removal company referrals from trusted family, neighbors and friends. Even when you get a referral, take the time to read online reviews on Google Reviews, BBB and Yelp to get a well-rounded perspective before you hire.

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.