The Hidden Costs of Neglecting Tree Maintenance in Cumming, GA
When life gets busy, tree maintenance often falls to the bottom of the to-do list. After all, those branches have been hanging there for years - what harm can they really do? Unfortunately, neglecting your trees can cost you far more than a Saturday afternoon of yard work.
From pest infestations to roof damage, cracked driveways to expensive emergency removals, the hidden costs of skipping tree maintenance add up fast. At LS Trees, we’ve seen firsthand how a little proactive care can save homeowners thousands of dollars (and plenty of headaches) down the line.
When Trees Invite Pests Inside Your Home
Overgrown or dead limbs are like highways for pests, giving squirrels, raccoons, and rodents direct access to your roof and attic. Once they’re inside, they chew wires, tear insulation, and create a serious health risk. Carpenter ants and termites take it a step further, eating away at the very structure of your home.
True story:
One family put off tree trimming for years. Eventually, squirrels found their way in, causing electrical issues that led to two separate electrician visits and repeat exterminator bills. After spending thousands in repairs, they finally called LS Trees to trim back the overhanging canopy, a service that would have cost a fraction of the damage they’d already faced.
Roof and Gutter Damage That Starts Small
Branches scraping across shingles may seem harmless, but over time they wear away protective layers and lead to leaks. Clogged gutters overflow, causing water to pool around your foundation. This can result in basement flooding, erosion, and costly structural damage.
In North Georgia, a single summer thunderstorm can turn a weak limb into a full roof puncture. Preventive trimming is one of the easiest ways to avoid insurance claims, roof repairs, and sleepless nights during storm season.
Roots Can Wreck More Than Your Lawn
Tree roots are powerful and persistent. Without regular monitoring, they can grow under sidewalks and driveways, causing cracks and uneven surfaces that become trip hazards.
Worse still, roots seek out water sources, and they often find their way into sewer or water lines. This can lead to slow drains, plumbing backups, and even full pipe replacements. What starts as a neglected tree can turn into thousands of dollars in excavation and plumbing bills.
Stumps: The Problem You Can’t Ignore
When a tree comes down, many homeowners think the job is done. But, leaving the stump behind can actually create more problems than the tree ever did.
Stumps aren’t just an eyesore; they’re a hidden hazard that can cost you time, money, and even put your family at risk.
Here’s why ignoring stumps can be costly:
Pest Paradise: A decaying stump is the perfect home for carpenter ants, termites, beetles, and rodents. Once these pests settle in, they often spread to nearby healthy trees, or worse, to your home’s structure. Termite treatment and wood repairs can cost thousands of dollars, making stump grinding the more affordable preventative option.
Trip and Fall Hazards: Stumps are dangerous for children playing in the yard and for pets who love to run freely. A stubbed toe or twisted ankle can lead to emergency room visits or liability concerns if guests are injured.
Lawn Maintenance Nightmare: Stumps are hard to mow around, forcing you to constantly maneuver and risk damaging mower blades. The result? Patchy, uneven grass and more time spent fighting with your yard.
Regrowth Hassle: Many stumps will sprout weak, unwanted saplings, draining nutrients from the soil and creating more work for you as they repeatedly regrow.
Hidden Costs Later: Left unchecked, stumps can decay and create soft spots in your yard, making future removal harder and more expensive. A soft, rotting stump may require more labor, specialized equipment, and yard restoration afterward.
At LS Trees, we use professional stump grinding equipment to safely and thoroughly grind the stump below ground level. This leaves your yard smooth, safer for kids and pets, and ready for fresh grass, landscaping, or even a new tree planting.
By taking care of the stump now, you prevent future pest infestations, protect your family and guests from injury, and avoid costly landscaping or structural damage later. Think of stump grinding as an investment in your home’s safety and long-term value.
Storm Season Risks Multiply
Untrimmed, diseased, or overgrown trees are far more likely to fail during severe weather. Here in Cumming, pop-up thunderstorms and the remnants of tropical storms can bring high winds without much warning.
A single falling limb can:
Damage fences or sheds
Crush vehicles or playsets
Puncture a roof
Take down power lines
Insurance doesn’t always cover the damage if it’s clear the tree was neglected. Proactive trimming and pruning reduce these risks dramatically.
‼️ The Cost of Waiting vs. Acting Now
Routine tree care is like preventative medicine. It keeps small problems from turning into major emergencies. While trimming or pruning may feel like an expense today, it can save thousands by avoiding:
Roof and gutter repairs
Exterminator fees
Plumbing and foundation repairs
Emergency storm removals
🌳 Why Choose LS Trees
Certified, Licensed & Insured – Peace of mind that your property is protected.
Local Expertise – 15+ years serving Cumming and surrounding North Georgia.
Family-Owned Values – We treat every property like it’s our own.
No Subcontractors – Our in-house crew ensures quality and safety.
Specialized Equipment – From cranes to stump grinders, we’re ready for any job.
⚠️ Don’t Forget 811 Before Stump Grinding
Before digging or grinding stumps, always call 811. This free service sends professionals to mark underground water, gas, and internet lines to prevent costly or dangerous accidents. At LS Trees, we take care of coordinating safety measures to make sure your job is done right from start to finish.
FAQs About Tree Maintenance
Q: How often should I trim my trees?
A: Every 1–3 years, depending on species, location, and recent storm activity.
Q: My trees look healthy. Why do I need an inspection?
A: Even healthy-looking trees can hide cracks, root damage, or disease. A professional checkup ensures you’re not at risk.
Q: Can tree roots really damage plumbing?
A: Yes! Roots follow water and can infiltrate sewer lines, causing backups and expensive repairs.
Q: What if full removal isn’t in my budget?
A: We can start with trimming to eliminate immediate risks, then schedule removals later. Mention this blog for $100 OFF.
Take action before it costs you more.
Ignoring your trees doesn’t just impact your curb appeal. It can cost you thousands in damage, repairs, and stress.
📞 Call LS Trees today at (770) 616-6079 for a free property assessment. Mention this blog for $100 OFF your service.