Here’s a situation: summer storms with high winds have decimated your trees. In the aftermath, you are tempted to save a few dollars by doing the clean-up yourself. Before you tackle this dangerous work, consider why hiring trained professionals to do the job may be a better move.

Is tree work dangerous for homeowners?

Safe tree work is a science, requiring extensive knowledge of trees and the specialized tools required to do the work properly. Cutting down damaged trees and climbing ladders to trim broken limbs is rarely as simple as it seems. Trees can be unpredictable: heavy roots, hollow trunks and diseased limbs can create hidden risks that affect the way a tree falls, potentially injuring unsuspecting homeowners.

Complex tree work also requires a variety of powerful tools that most homeowners do not have. Renting is an option, but heavy-duty chainsaws, power pruning equipment, wood chippers, lifts, specialty ladders and stump grinders all take expertise and experience to use safely and efficiently. There is a certain amount of pruning and tree maintenance that is healthy for the average homeowner to partake in, gathering tips for taking care of your tree and putting in some time lightly pruning and checking for infestations is encouraged, but leave the dangerous work to the pros.

How can a professional help?

Storm clean-up is time-consuming, dangerous work. It requires an approach that not only removes immediate hazards, but also returns your landscape to its original beauty. After damaged trees have been felled and limbs have been cut, you will need the debris removed and unsightly stumps ground to below grade level. If you have a fireplace or fire pit, a silver lining to a downed tree is that professional arborists can cut it up into firewood for you, or else dispose of it responsibly.

A seasoned professional knows trees inside out; not only can they clean up storm damage quickly and safely, they will often offer a comprehensive consultation that will identify unsafe, unhealthy trees that could harm your family or damage your home. They will then work with you to create a custom plan to keep your trees in the best condition possible, an important step to minimizing the damage that could be caused by future storms. If you have a large tree on your property for ages, you may have forgotten it exists, if it dies and threatens to fall on your shed, you’ll want to keep on top of it and involve the pros.

How should I choose the best professional?

Choose an arborist certified by the ISA (International Society of Arborists). They are among the best educated and most experienced in their field. The certification process requires broad-based knowledge, stringent competency testing and commitment to the highest ethical standards. ISA-certified arborists are required to participate in continuing education opportunities, ensuring the professional you hire has the most up-to-date training available.

Healthy trees are an important part of your landscape. In good condition, they will add enjoyment to your yard and value to your home. When high winds damage your trees, get your yard restored and your life back on track quickly. Hire trained professionals — they will do the job right.