DIY Tree Work vs. Hiring Certified Pros: What’s the Smart Choice?

🏠 The Temptation of DIY Tree Care

We get it… you’re handy, you’ve got a chainsaw in the garage, and trimming that tree looks easy enough. With countless DIY videos online, it’s no wonder some homeowners or business owners think, “Why not just do it myself?”

But before you grab that ladder, let’s explore the reality of DIY tree trimming, pruning, and removal versus hiring an experienced, certified, licensed, and insured team like LS Trees.

⚖️ DIY vs. Professional: The Real Differences

✂️ DIY Tree Trimming & Pruning: The Pros

• Cost savings - at first glance. No labor fees, just the cost of tools and your time.

• Immediate action. You don’t need to wait for an appointment.

• Satisfaction. There’s pride in tackling your own yard work.

⚠️ DIY Tree Trimming & Pruning: The Cons

• Safety risks. Falls, cuts, electrocution (especially near power lines), or branches dropping unpredictably.

• Improper cuts. Bad pruning can harm the tree, weaken its structure, or encourage disease.

• Equipment challenges. Ladders, saws, and tools not designed for the job can lead to dangerous situations.

• Liability. If a limb damages your property (or a neighbor’s), you’re on the hook.

📝 Example: We recently got a call from a homeowner in North Georgia who attempted to prune a leaning limb himself. The limb fell in an unexpected direction, denting his new truck. What seemed like a quick weekend project turned into a costly repair.

🪓 DIY Tree Removal: Think Twice

Tree removal is a major job, even small trees can weigh thousands of pounds. The risks with DIY removal:

• Trees falling unpredictably, especially near structures

• Root systems that tangle with pipes, driveways, or underground utilities

• Inadequate equipment for safe dismantling

💡 Real-world example: One local business owner tried to DIY remove a storm damaged tree beside his warehouse. The trunk split unevenly, hitting a fence and grazing the building. What would’ve cost a few hundred dollars in professional removal ended up as a multi-thousand dollar insurance claim.

🏆 Benefits of Hiring Certified, Licensed, and Insured Pros (Like LS Trees)

• ✅ Safety First

  • Our team uses specialized equipment, harnesses, and rigging to remove or trim trees without putting your property (or family) at risk.

• ✅ Precision

  • Proper cuts encourage healthy regrowth and maintain the tree’s natural strength. Bad cuts can shorten a tree’s lifespan.

• ✅ Liability Protection

  • Because LS Trees is licensed and insured, you’re covered. No worrying about accidents, injuries, or property damage.

• ✅ Efficient, Clean Results

  • We handle everything. From the removal to cleanup to optional stump grinding. No debris piles left behind, no guesswork.

• ✅ Expert Advice

  • We assess the tree’s health and recommend the best solution, whether it’s trimming, pruning, or full removal.

⚡ When DIY Might Be Okay

• Clipping a few small, low branches with hand pruners (under 1” thick)

• Light shaping of young shrubs

• Gathering fallen twigs and debris

Beyond that? It’s safer and smarter to call a pro.

🪵 Bonus: What Happens After?

When LS Trees handles your tree work, we also offer free wood chips (when available). Use them for:

• Mulching gardens and pathways

• Retaining moisture in your soil

• Keeping weeds at bay

It’s one more way we help turn risk into reward for your yard.

❓ FAQs

• Q: Is professional tree work really worth the cost?

  • A: When you factor in safety, equipment, liability, and peace of mind, yes! A pro job often costs less than a DIY disaster.

• Q: What if my tree is close to power lines?

  • A: Never DIY near power lines. Always hire certified pros trained in safe clearances.

• Q: Can I just rent a chainsaw and do it myself?

  • A: Chainsaws don’t replace experience. Many DIY injuries happen because people underestimate tree dynamics or tool power.

📞 Bottom Line: Play It Safe and Call LS Trees | (770) 616-6079

Tree trimming, pruning, and removal can look simple, but looks can be deceiving. Don’t risk your safety, property, or tree health.

🌐 www.LSTreesLLC.com

💸 Mention this blog for $100 off your service

📍 Serving Cumming, Dawsonville, Gainesville, Alpharetta, and all of North Georgia