Contents (Click To Jump)
- 1 What Are The Most Common Tree Issues In Lexington?
- 2 Does The City of Lexington Provide Any Assistance In Tree Removal Problems?
- 3 Who Is Responsible For Fallen Tree Removal In Lexington?
- 4 How Does The Soil Affect Trees In Lexington?
- 5 Does Weather Affect Tree Health In Lexington?
- 6 What If Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines In Lexington?
- 7 How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Lexington?
What Are The Most Common Tree Issues In Lexington?
With such an abundance of trees in Lexington, it’s no surprise that they face their share of potential problems. From severe weather to bugs and disease, tree removal in Lexington is a necessary service.
Lexington trees can become infested with several types of pests. Bugs like borer insects and several beetle varieties can infest trees, and without swift intervention, kill them in a matter of months. Even the largest of trees can quickly fall prey to these pests, and once the tree is dead, it quickly becomes a falling hazard.
Trees in Lexington can also become infected with several diseases including root rot, bacterial leaf scorch (BLS) and rhizosphaera needle cast, among others. Most diseases can quickly kill trees of every size without proper treatment. Once a tree is injured or dying, it becomes a liability for the owner. One gusty storm or flood could quickly uproot a dying or dead tree, causing injury or property damage. When you notice that a tree needs removal, it is best to call us quickly before Mother Nature steps in to assist.
Does The City of Lexington Provide Any Assistance In Tree Removal Problems?
The city of Lexington takes great pride in its tree-lined streets and provides many resources to educate residents on proper tree care. With over 53,000 trees lining its streets, Lexington takes tree care very seriously. In addition to providing resources, the city offers a Hazard Street Tree Cost-Share Program for property owners who are facing tree removal expenses. The program provides up to 50% reimbursement for tree removal in Lexington, as well as stump grinding and tree replacement services.
If your tree meets the program’s specific criteria for removal, you can tap into their resources to have your dead tree removed and replaced at a fraction of the cost. This program runs on a first-come, first-served basis and funding is limited, so act quickly if you have a tree that needs to be removed.
Who Is Responsible For Fallen Tree Removal In Lexington?
Large trees add value and curb appeal to your property while providing functional benefits like shade, protection and privacy. Without properly caring for the trees on your property, you risk being liable if one falls down on your own property, or worse, your neighbor’s. In cases of fallen tree removal, how do you know if it’s your responsibility? Here are some of the most common examples and what Kentucky tree laws have to say:
If you’re a homeowner?
Homeowners are responsible for their property and everything on it. If your plot of land is peppered with large oak trees, it is your responsibility to take care of them and maintain their health. If a healthy tree falls as a result of a natural disaster like a storm or an “act of God,” your homeowner’s insurance will likely cover the expense to remove the tree.
If you’re a renter?
One of the greatest perks of being a renter is that you don’t have to maintain the property. Just like with landscaping and mowing the lawn, property maintenance falls on the shoulders of the property owner. The trees also belong to the owner, and if one falls, their insurance will step in to cover the removal fees. If you are injured or your car is damaged and their homeowner’s insurance gives you trouble, you may need to contact an attorney. They will help you receive payment from your landlord’s insurance company for the damages that are ensued.
If you’re a landlord?
If a tree falls because of an “act of God” like a storm or flood, your homeowner’s insurance will likely pay for the tree to be removed. If your insurance company inspects the tree and can prove that it was unhealthy, neglected or dead, you may be at fault and your premium will likely increase. This is why it is so important to provide maintenance and have dead or dying trees removed before a fall occurs.
If you’re a neighbor?
If your neighbor’s tree falls onto your property or damages your home, your homeowner’s insurance will cover the damage and tree removal. The only time that this may not be the case is if your insurance deems that your neighbor was neglectful. If your insurance company can prove that your neighbor’s tree was unhealthy, their insurance will need to step in to pay for damages and removal of the tree.
How Does The Soil Affect Trees In Lexington?
Lexington has two types of soil: sandy and clay. The area’s sandy soil and clay soil are both perfect mediums for growing beautiful, healthy trees. Sometimes the clay soil can become compacted and dense so it’s important to add an organic compound that will break down and aerate the soil to encourage root growth. One of the greatest ways to do this is by adding mulch near the base of your tree that will break down over time to nourish the roots and protect your tree’s base.
Most forest floors are covered in leaves, twigs and other organic matter that protect tree roots. This layer acts as nature’s cozy blanket to protect roots from the unstable elements above ground. It provides temperature control, maintains a steady moisture level for tree roots and protects the soil from erosion. Since most homeowners rake and dispose of their tree’s leaves, trees are left with vulnerable roots. It’s important to replace that protective layer by adding 3-6 inches of mulch around the base of your tree.
Does Weather Affect Tree Health In Lexington?
Lexington weather is typically mild and temperate, with an occasional ice storm in the winter. Strong thunderstorms are common in the warmer months, bringing risks of high winds, lightning and flooding. Storms with high winds can uproot dead or dying trees, causing damage to homes and risking injury to the people inside. If a tree is hit by lightning, it can cause significant damage by affecting the anchor point and structure of the tree, making it unstable and at risk of falling down. In some areas of Lexington, flooding can also be problematic for trees. High waters can weaken your tree’s stability and make it susceptible to falling. On the other extreme, Lexington droughts, although less common, can cause shade trees to fail and become vulnerable to falling down.
Although you can’t predict the weather, properly caring for your trees can prepare them to withstand many storms. If a severe storm uproots one of your trees, we’ll be happy to help with your tree removal in Lexington.
What If Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines In Lexington?
According to Kentucky Power, it’s important to never attempt to trim or remove trees near power lines or poles. Avoid injuring yourself and leave this job to the professionals. Lexington residents are required to report dead trees to Kentucky Power and they will assist you in safely trimming or removing your tree. The power company can only provide services to trees that are near power lines between poles. If your tree is located near a power line that runs directly to your house, trimming and removal is your responsibility. If you contact them, Kentucky Power can temporarily disconnect your power so that we can safely remove your tree.
If you have a dead or hazardous tree near your power lines and you ignore the problem, you risk the county stepping in to solve it themselves. If the county deems the tree is a hazard, they will remove the tree themselves and send the bill to your house. Avoid this costly mistake by calling us at the first sign of a dying or hazardous tree.
How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Lexington?
Tree removal prices can vary greatly. From tree size to the location and structures nearby, several factors come into play in determining your total cost. If you have a tree that needs to be removed, it’s best to call us and get a free quote. Here are a few of the things that will affect your total cost:
Tree Size
Trees come in all shapes and sizes and our approach is never one size fits all. The larger the tree and the greater the diameter of its trunk, the more expensive it will be to remove. We can handle any tree that comes our way, but larger trees mean more time and resources, increasing the final cost. Tree size is the main factor in determining the price of tree removal and an expert tree remover can help you calculate the cost.
Tree Location
If your tree is near a building and its branches are hanging over the structure, the job becomes more complicated. Reaching those branches and safely cutting them down without damaging your house means extra time, effort and money. Our experts take their jobs seriously and we pride ourselves in removing trees while maintaining the integrity of the structures nearby. Additionally, if your tree is in a hard-to-reach place or is off the beaten path, your fee may increase as well.
Utility Poles Nearby
If there are utility poles or power lines nearby, the price of your tree removal in Lexington will likely increase. Our experts must take extra safety measures to communicate with power companies and maneuver around power lines to remove dead trees and limbs. The added time and extra steps it takes to remove trees near utility poles will likely add to your total cost.
If you’re in need of tree removal in Lexington or you’d like to learn more about our services, contact us at TreeTriage today. Our experts are happy to answer your questions and provide you with a free quote.
