FAQ

ARE ALL TREES THE SAME?

No, like fingerprints, no two trees are the same. Gray Tree Service is certified and expertly trained in the proper maintenance of all species and varieties of trees in your area and will treat each tree type according to tendencies & unique cultural conditions.

ARE MY TREES DEAD OR DYING?

Call Gray Tree Service for a FREE quote. Gray Tree Service will consult, diagnose and assist you in determining whether your tree has suffered from a storm or freeze damage, has nutrient deficiencies, or is under attack from damaging insects or disease and most importantly; whether it is a threat to your property or personal safety.

DO YOU FURNISH REFERENCES?

Yes. Gray Tree Service will gladly furnish references upon request in addition to the published testimonials.

WHAT EXACTLY DOES LICENSED & INSURED MEAN?

Gray Tree Service carries General Liability Insurance. This insurance is in place should there be any accidental property damage as well as workman’s comp coverage. This insurance also provides the peace of mind knowing that if someone is accidentally hurt on your property, you will not be liable for any damages. When contracting for tree services, for your protection, please follow these 4-steps:

  1. Always ask the company for their certificate of insurance.
  2. Call the agent listed to verify insurance is still active.
  3. Ask to be listed as a certificate holder.
  4. Only hire tree experts who can provide a certificate on demand.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD MY TREES BE PRUNED?

Based on the location of the tree, if done correctly, a tree should be pruned every 4-5 years.

MY TREE IS GROWING DIRECTLY OVER MY HOME OR GARAGE. CAN YOU SAFELY REMOVE THESE LIMBS WITHOUT DAMAGING MY PROPERTY?

Yes. Gray Tree Service is trained in advanced rigging techniques to safely rope down hazardous limbs. In the event of an accident, our general liability insurance would cover the cost of repair.

WHAT CAN HAPPEN TO MY TREE IF IT IS IMPROPERLY PRUNED?

Improper pruning (stub cuts, flush cuts) can make your valuable trees susceptible to disease, decay, and wood boring insects. Over-pruning (the removal of too many limbs) causes too much loss of leaf for the tree to efficiently continue its photosynthesis process. It also means removing limbs that can never be replaced. This could be disastrous for the appearance and future health of your tree.

WHAT IS A TREE REMOVAL PERMIT?

Most municipalities require permission, via a permit, to remove trees exceeding a certain diameter (excluding dead trees or invasive species). The permit cost is minimal and Gray Tree Service will file the necessary application for you. Failure to procure a permit can result in a large fine.

WHAT IS ROOT PRUNING?

Root pruning is used, in special circumstances, to stop the continued uplifting of sidewalks, driveways, and structures. A Gray Tree Service expert can advise you on whether this is an option based on your trees specific cultural conditions.

WHAT SHOULD I DO TO PREPARE MY TREES FOR STORM SEASON?

There are certain methods of pruning which help to mitigate the hazard of high winds, extreme weather and other damage. Gray Tree Service is familiar with these methods. Your trees should also be evaluated for overall structural risks as well. If concerned about your trees in storm season, a Gray Tree Service expert can offer you options unique to your specific tree care needs.

WHAT TYPE OF TREE COMPANY SHOULD I AVOID?

Generally speaking – door knockers, those who can’t immediately provide proof of insurance, those who lack arborist certification, and storm chasers from out of town are those you should be wary of.

WHY DOES HIRING A CERTIFIED ARBORIST MATTER WHEN HAVING A TREE REMOVED?

Gray Tree Service Certified Arborists are highly trained in advanced rigging techniques that minimize the impact of a tree removal to your home & landscape. Many tree services will drop limbs directly on your landscape or home without regard for possible damage.

WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE GRAY TREE SERVICE?

Gray Tree Service has been Chicago’s preferred tree care provider since 1940. We are highly credentialed with generations of expertise. We are an active Angie’s List provider since 2002 having  won the Angie’s Lists Super Service award several years in a row. We also carry verifiable property liability and workman’s compensation insurances, and handle the permitting requirements needed for your tree work.

WHY SHOULD I HIRE A CERTIFIED ARBORIST?

In addition to performing top quality pruning, a Gray Tree Service Certified Expert can make recommendations that will strive to improve the future health and appearance of your trees, minimize property liability issues, and maintain your property value.

WILL YOU DISPOSE OF ALL WOOD AND DEBRIS?

Gray Tree Service will always dispose of the wood, unless you state otherwise, resulting from the work on your trees as well as provide an excellent cleanup.

WHAT IF I HAVE A QUESTION THAT DOESN’T APPEAR HERE?

Gray Tree Service has attempted to answer basic questions you may have but understand that we may have left something out. Please call us at 847-344-7447 or email us at graytreeservice@gmail.com regarding any of your tree needs to schedule a free initial consultation and estimate.