Deciding to remove a tree is, in and of itself, a pretty big step. However, it's just a first step. Once you've decided that a particular tree definitely needs to go, there are three other important decisions you need to make.

1. Do you have any other trees you want to be taken down as well?

If you've determined that one tree, in particular, should be taken down, then is likely the tree with the most obvious problems. However, you should take some time to look around your yard and assess the condition of your other trees. Are there others that are also ill, although maybe not as ill as the initial tree you're having removed? Maybe there is another tree that you fear will interfere with your house or garage in a few years. The point of doing this is to figure out if you have other trees that may also need to be removed soon. If you can arrange to have the tree removal company remove them all at once, you'll often save some money. It doesn't hurt to ask your neighbors if they need some trees removed, too!

2. What do you want done with the wood?

If the tree is diseased, then you should really ask the tree removal company to take the wood with them. Most will automatically do this or highly recommend it. Wood from diseased trees can spread the disease and therefore needs to be dealt with properly. 

If the tree is not diseased, then you should be able to keep the wood if you want. This is a good choice if you have a wood-burning stove or if you plan on having campfires. Just check with the tree removal company to see whether they'll chop it for you or not. Of course, if you want to just have healthy wood hauled away, the tree removal company will typically handle that for you, too. They may even give you a discount since they can sell the wood.

3. How will you handle the stump?

Stump removal is not always included in tree removal. Check with your tree removal company to see if they offer this service. If they do not, then you will need to make plans to rent a stump grinder and remove the stump yourself. Or, you can just let it rot away on its own, although this is not advised in any high-traffic areas, as the stump could be a tripping hazard.

Once you make these decisions, you are truly ready to have your tree removed. Give your removal company a call, and start making some plans for tree removal.

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