Get matched with top tree service pros in Vienna, WV

A tree growing close to a house can cause problems, but cutting it down isn’t always the best solution. Trees planted close to your home could damage your foundation as their roots grow. In addition, they can drop large branches on your house, make it easier for critters and insects to access your home, and encourage mold growth. But if the tree has been there for a long time, it may not pose a risk to your foundation, and it could be more beneficial—not to mention cheaper—to strategically trim it instead. Your best bet is to consult an arborist for advice.

Licensing requirements for arborists vary by state and municipality, so you should use Angi’s contractor licensing tool to see if your arborist needs a license. Even if an arborist license isn’t mandated in your area, it’s a good idea to hire one that has at least a business license, business insurance, and certification from a third-party organization, like the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) or the Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA). Licensed arborists tend to have more experience and are more likely to provide a professional solution to your tree problem.

Most jobs take 2-8 hours, but extensive trimming may take multiple days.

Generally, you should prune around 20% of an apple tree’s growth—and never more than 30%. This means that if you have a severely overgrown tree, it can take a few seasons to prune it back enough to produce the healthiest fruit. 

If you’re dealing with a newly planted or juvenile tree, hold off on pruning beyond the initial shaping. Wait at least a couple of seasons into fruit production since pruning can increase the number of water sprouts and unproductive foliage.