AFFORDABLE TREE REMOVAL SERVICE IN Allentown, PA

What Are the Most Common Tree Issues in Allentown?

While Allentown has an ideal climate for tree growth, its trees are currently threatened by invasive insects and diseases. One invasive insect is decimating populations of Pennsylvania’s state tree, the Eastern Hemlock. Unfortunately, these trees are being attacked by Hemlock Wooly Adelgids. These sap-eating insects cause local Hemlock trees to lose their leaves. When left untreated, the trees can die back, losing branches, and severe infestations can kill the entire tree. You can identify these pests by the white, fuzzy wax they leave on the undersides of small branches near the needles. The females overwinter in these wax shelters and continue their attacks on hemlock trees in the spring.

The best way for homeowners to treat these insects is with a targeted insecticide, according to the DCNR. While most of us would prefer to avoid pesticides, this is really the best way to combat these insects on a small scale. Our arborists can inject a Wooly Adelgid-specific insecticide into the tree or the soil immediately around it to avoid harming insects in other parts of your yard.

If you own ash trees in Allentown, you may be at risk from a different kind of pest. The Emerald Ash Borer has destroyed hundreds of ash trees in the Allentown area and poses a major threat to the millions of ash trees throughout the state. If you have an ash tree in your yard, you should consider treating it for these invasive insects right away, as the current available treatments only work as a preventative. If your tree is already infested with Emerald Ash Borers, you may notice that the tree seems to be dying at the top, or the bark is splitting, or flaking off. If you do have these invasive insects in your tree, it’s best to have the tree removed as soon as possible. This will prevent the insects from reproducing inside the tree and spreading throughout your neighborhood. Our arborists can help you remove the tree without damaging the rest of your property.

Many homeowners with sufficient space in their Allentown backyards enjoy growing fruit trees and ornamental shade trees. Sadly, these trees are now under threat from the Spotted Lanternfly. These insects are relatively new to this area of Pennsylvania, and the government is already taking steps to prevent them from spreading to other counties within the state. Unfortunately, it’s too late to prevent these invaders from accessing Lehigh county, so Allentown residents should watch carefully for these invasive pests. Check your trees for masses of white eggs from September to June, and scrape them off if you see them. You can also put sticky insect tape around your trees to prevent these insects from harming your tree when they hatch. 

Trees damaged by Spotted Lanternflies may display curled or wilted leaves, oozing sap, and sooty black mold. These insects prefer the Tree of Heaven as their host, so if you have one of these trees on your property, consider replacing it with a native tree to discourage these insects from occupying your yard. Damage from these pests can look similar to aphid damage, so have our certified arborists look at your tree if you suspect your tree has Spotted Lanternflies. We can help you determine the cause of damage and the best course of action for your property.

Does the City of Allentown Provide Any Assistance in Tree Removal Problems?

The city of Allentown provides little assistance for tree removal problems. Most homeowners must pay for the removal on their own. If you have a tree in a public right of way, you’ll need a permit from the city to prune or remove it, since these trees are privately owned but fully regulated by the city. You’ll need to keep these trees trimmed so there’s sufficient clearance underneath them. If the city determines a tree in a public right of way needs to be removed and the right of way is on your property, the city will charge you for the full cost of removal. Residents must pay within 90 days, although in this special case, the city does provide some financial assistance for low-income residents who can demonstrate a need for financial assistance.

Who Is Responsible For Fallen Tree Removal in Allentown?

If you’re a homeowner?

If you’re a homeowner in Allentown, you are always responsible for fallen tree removal. Remove trees that show signs of disease or death early to avoid damaging your property. You don’t need a permit to remove a tree as long as it is fully on your property, and not in the public right of way. If the tree overhangs someone else’s property, you may be responsible for trimming or removing it if it poses a danger to your neighbor’s property. Your homeowner’s insurance can usually help with tree removal, so be sure to give them a call before you start the removal process.

If you’re a renter?

Renters in Allentown are not responsible for pruning or maintaining trees that pose a danger to them or their home in Allentown, although they may be expected to do basic yard maintenance. This may involve some basic pruning if specified by the landlord, but be sure to check before you do any work on trees or shrubs – many landlords prefer to take care of this themselves or hire a company to maintain them. The landlord is responsible for damage from trees and could be held liable if trees cause a significant danger to the renter. If you are worried about a tree on your property, contact your landlord right away and let them know your concerns so they can fix any issues promptly. 

If you’re a landlord?

Landlords are responsible for tree removal in Allentown since they are the landowners. It’s smart for landlords to prune trees on a regular basis to ensure the property is safe and well kept. While technically, you can ask tenants to do basic pruning, an overzealous tenant can easily do harm to trees and shrubs, making them more susceptible to disease or death. Most landlords check each property once a year and have trees and shrubs pruned back in the fall. If you ever notice a dead or dying tree, have it removed immediately. A landlord can be held liable for medical expenses and damages if a tree or branch falls on a tenant, visitor, or neighbor.

If you’re a neighbor?

Sometimes, a neighbor’s tree falls on your property. Under normal circumstances, the property owner is responsible for the tree removal. If you think a neighbor’s tree poses a problem for your yard, ask them to prune the overhanging branches back to avoid damage to your property. Document your request, especially if they do not act on it. If a tree from your neighbor’s yard damages your property, often the easiest and most peaceful solution is for both of you to submit claims to your insurance company. In most cases, your insurance will be collected from their insurance company, and you can continue your relationship without a personal conflict. The only exception to this rule is if the damage occurs during a storm – in that case, whatever branches or debris land on your property is yours to clean up. For significant damage, your homeowner’s insurance can help.

How Does the Soil Affect Trees in Allentown?

Allentown’s fertile soil is perfect for growing trees, which is why you’ll see such a variety in this area. However, the carbonate bedrock below these fertile soils can result in sinkholes, which can cause damage to trees and other parts of the landscape. The soil in Allentown is often quite acidic, however, which can prevent some trees from absorbing all the soil nutrients they need to thrive. Anytime you plant a tree, check to see what soil pH it prefers. If you are planting a tree that likes more neutral soil, it’s a good idea to add limestone. 

Does Weather Affect Tree Health in Allentown?

Weather can affect tree health in Allentown, especially if the city gets an unexpected snowstorm. Heavy snow and strong spring thunderstorms can cause damage to trees. After any major storm, check for damage to ensure your trees stay in good health. If any of your trees seem unstable or have dead branches, our certified arborists can help you determine the best course of action to prevent damage to your property.

What If Dead Trees Are Near Power Lines in Allentown?

If you notice a dead tree near a powerline in Allentown, call your utility company right away. They are responsible for keeping trees and shrubs clear of power lines. The Allentown power companies have increased their investment in clearing trees in recent years, resulting in fewer power outages. It should not cost you anything if the power company needs to clear a dead tree – they manage the area under power lines and are responsible for the removal.

How Much Does Tree Removal Usually Cost in Allentown?

Tree removal costs can vary significantly depending on the height of the tree, accessibility, and the condition of the tree. In Allentown, the average cost of tree removal is $755, although costs can range from just $280 up to $1,530 or more. Trimming a tree is much cheaper, with most people paying around $207 per hour.

Tree Height

The height of the tree is the most important factor in the cost of tree removal in Allentown. For every 20-feet of tree, you can expect your cost to increase by $200-$300 or more. It’s more difficult to remove a tall tree, and tall trees require more specialized equipment to avoid damage to your property. They also require more labor and time to remove. For very tall trees, expect to pay a greater amount than you would for smaller trees.

Accessibility

The second most important cost factor in Allentown tree removal is accessibility. A tree that is easily accessible can be removed for a relatively low cost. For instance, if the tree has already fallen in a clear area, or if your yard is easy to access with large equipment, you can expect a cheaper tree removal. Your price will increase if the tree is difficult to access, requires a crane to remove, or is located close enough to power lines that they interfere with removal equipment.

Safety

Since greater safety protocols must be followed, the condition of the tree can affect the cost of removal. Trees that are unstable, in poor condition, or already dead require more safety measures and equipment. In addition, emergency tree removals typically cost more and have more damage associated with them. You’ll save money by calling us to remove a sick or damaged tree before it becomes a safety hazard.