As with many other things in and around the house, tree removal is not as simple as it sounds. When opting to remove a tree, there are various other factors to consider. Such factors include stump removal, stump grinding, root removal, and after-felling cleanup, as each type of tree removal service has its own cost. Before yelling timber, consider the following information about how much it costs to cut down a tree.
How Much Does Tree Removal Cost?
Stump Removal vs Stump Grinding
In addition to being a tripping hazard and a mower obstacle, a tree stump will grow new sprouts even though it is decaying. Tree stumps can also attract termites and carpenter ants, which can cause significant damage to your home and other plants. A stump and its root systems also make it difficult to plant new, healthy trees in the same area. So, should you remove the tree stump, or resort to stump grinding?
Removal
Removing a tree stump often means a significant intrusion, as it involves digging up the roots which will have spread out. This is a time-consuming practice involving labor and sometimes heavy machinery. Then, there is the issue of filling the holes left behind and repairing the lawn. This level of damage can take a few seasons to fully recover.
Grinding
Stump grinding is far less invasive than tree stump removal. A grinding machine is used to wear down the tree stump by shredding it into woodchips. The chips can then be turned into mulch. This process involves grinding the stump 4 – 6 inches down below lawn level. Though grinding is a more efficient way to remove a tree stump, grinding means that the roots are left. Although the roots will eventually decay, it will take a long time. More than ten years in many cases.
Cheapest Option
The cheapest tree removal option is DIY, although it is not advisable. Felling a tree, cutting it up, grinding the stump, and the after removal clean-up is labor-intensive and time-consuming. It also requires experience, especially in the felling process. There is also the matter of checking out local codes and acquiring permits if necessary.
Grinding machines are available to rent and they will need to be transported. However, when it’s all said and done, DIY grinding may only save around $100 to $200. Grinder rental costs depend in part on the horsepower (hp) of the machine and the number of days you will rent it for. On average a grinder will cost anywhere from $190 to $1,650, plus transport and insurance.
Average Cost of a Professional Tree Removal Service in Omaha, Nebraska
The average cost to remove a tree is around $1,050.00, depending on if the stump is removed or ground down. Costs are usually determined by the size and diameter of the tree. However, discounts may apply if there is more than one tree. Consider the following:
Factors Affecting Stump Removal Costs
- Size of the Stump: Larger stumps typically cost more to remove due to the increased labor and equipment needed.
- Root System Complexity: Extensive root systems can complicate removal, increasing the cost.
- Accessibility: Stumps in hard-to-reach areas may require specialized equipment, affecting the price.
- Type of Wood: Harder wood stumps can be more challenging to remove, impacting the cost.
Stump Removal and Grinding
The cost of either removing or grinding a stump is calculated based on the diameter of the stump. The average cost is around $3.00 per inch. That excludes labor and the cost of the machinery if excavation or grinding are required. On top of those costs, tree removal labor can cost between $100 and $150 per hour. Listed below are the average costs associated with stump removal and grinding.
- Stump removal: $314. (manual)
- Stump grind: $ 100 minimum charge plus $2.00 to $5.00 per inch
- Clean-up fee: $3.50 per diameter inch
- Labor: $125 per hour
- Travel cost: $0.55 per mile
Tree Removal Cleanup
Sometimes these costs are already factored in by the tree removal company. Typically cleanup costs depend on the amount of sawdust and woodchips that needs to be collected and disposed of. In some cases, people will opt to use the woodchips as mulch in the yard. On average, cleanup costs are calculated at $2.00 per inch of the stump diameter, possibly with a minimum charge.
Be sure to ask if these costs are included.
Root Removal
The cost of root removal will vary according to how deep the roots are, how widespread they are, and their location – near underground pipes, for example. Root removal is usually calculated at an hourly rate, around $150 per hour on average. Ask your tree removal contractor to determine this cost upfront. Expect to pay for at least two to three hours for an easy job.
Tree Removal Alternatives
Hiring a professional tree removal company is the most expensive option, however, it is also the most efficient. If you do not want to pay to hire a tree removal company, there are alternatives. Some people will opt for chemical and burning options. However, it is best to discuss these options with a tree care professional before proceeding with any DIY tree removal project.
Use this helpful tree removal cost calculator or contact us today to receive an estimate for tree removal prices in Omaha, NE, and surrounding areas.
Tree Services of Omaha
Tree Services of Omaha, NE is a full-service tree care provider that offers a wide range of arborist services including but not limited to: Tree Removal Services, Tree Trimming, Tree Pruning, Tree and shrubs Shaping, Stump Removal, Stump Grinding, Arborist Consultations, Systemic Tree Injections. Contact us today for a free estimate!
