Frequently Asked Questions
What geographical area do you work in?
I’m based in Sheriff Hutton, near York, and work mainly in the North Yorkshire Area. However, I’m always willing to discuss going further afield.
How do you safely chop down a very large tree?
Large trees are no problem. I use the latest arboricultural techniques to climb the tree and cut it down in manageable sections. The exact method depends on where the tree is situated.
A branch of my tree overhangs the road – can you deal with that?
Health and Safety is of the utmost importance when dealing with any kind of tree work, particularly if branches overhang public areas. In the case of a road, the area would be cordoned off with the correct signage and all appropriate notifications given well in advance.
Do you take everything away with you afterwards?
That depends on what the customer wants. I use a heavy duty chipper which can cope with branches up to 300mm diameter. This can turn a tree into a load of wood chip very quickly indeed! Sometimes a customer will want to keep the wood chip for their own garden, others want it taking away and disposing of safely. Similarly, some customers want logs cutting to keep for burning in open fires or stoves when they have seasoned.
It is almost impossible to cut down a tree without affecting the immediate area in one way or another. I always aim to create as little disturbance as possible and completely tidy up afterwards.
What about the tree stump?
Stumps can either be left at a suitable height to become a feature or a base for creepers or climbers in the garden, or cut down to ground level. Some stumps, such as conifer stumps which should be removed to prevent the growth of fungus in the soil, can be ground out with a machine, or dug out depending on access.
Can you build me a fence where the tree was?
Yes, several types of fencing can be quoted for.
What about Tree Preservation Orders?
Trees can be the subject of a Tree Preservation Order (TPO) or situated within a conservation area (TCO). It is always prudent to check with the local authority before carrying out any work. The existence of a TPO or TCO does not mean that no work at all can be carried out on the tree, but approval must be sought in advance and this can take several weeks or months to obtain. If required, I can submit the application on your behalf as part of the job.
What are the considerations for choosing a new tree?
Some species, such as willow and poplar, should never be planted close to a house as their roots will travel a long way to search for water and can break into drainage systems, causing major problems.
In small gardens, fruit trees such as plum, pear and apple are always favourites. It very much depends on what you want the tree to do. Is it just to look beautiful, or is it provide screening?
How much do logs and wood chip cost?
Logs can be supplied for a price of £60 per 2 cubic meters. Woodchip is supplied for a price of £60 per 5 cubic meters.
How much does it cost to cut down a tree?
A good question! That very much depends on the size of the tree is and on the access to it, but I will give a detailed estimate in advance. The range might be from £75 to £2,000 but every job is different.
Are you insured?
I have public liability insurance cover which meets the legal requirement.
Are you qualified?
I studied at Houghell College in County Durham and achieved a City and Guilds in Arboriculture. I have been trading since 2000.
Whats the dog called?
He's a Border Terrier called Woody, and very much a part of the team!