When it comes to caring for the trees on your Central Florida property, it might be tempting to take the DIY route or hire the cheapest tree service provider you can find. After all, how hard can it be to trim a few branches or remove a small tree?
As many homeowners in Lakeland, Valrico, and throughout Polk and Hillsborough counties have discovered, this approach often leads to unexpected costs, property damage, and even safety hazards that far exceed the initial savings.
At We Do It All Trees & Landscape, we’ve seen firsthand how professional tree care is actually an investment that pays dividends over time. Our licensed arborists and experienced tree care team have helped countless Central Florida tree owners avoid costly mistakes while preserving their property’s beauty, safety, and value.
The Hidden Costs of DIY Tree Work
When homeowners attempt tree care without proper training and equipment, they often face unexpected expenses:
Equipment Costs and Inefficiency
Professional tree service requires specialized equipment that most homeowners don’t have readily available. Consider these expenses:
- Chainsaw purchase/rental: $150-$500+
- Safety gear: $200-$300
- Ladder rental: $50-$100 per day
- Stump grinding rental: $150-$300 per day
- Debris removal: $100-$400 depending on volume
Beyond the equipment costs, DIY tree work typically takes much longer without professional-grade tools and expertise. What might take our tree service team at We Do It All Trees & Landscape a few hours could consume an entire weekend of your valuable time.
Property Damage Risks
One of the most significant financial risks of DIY tree work is property damage. Trees don’t always fall where expected, and without proper tree removal techniques, branches can:
- Damage roofing (average repair: $1,000+)
- Break windows (replacement: $300-$1,000 per window)
- Crush landscaping features (replacement costs vary widely)
- Damage fences (repairs starting at $500)
- Fall on vehicles (repairs starting at $2,000+)
Greg Healy, one of our satisfied customers, shared his experience: “I had a tree go down in a hurricane requiring stump grinding/removal. I called a few places but We Do It All was the most responsive. The guys who did the job were very respectful of the property. They did a great job and cleaned up nicely before leaving.”
Safety Hazards and Liability
Perhaps the most concerning aspect of DIY tree work is the safety risk. Tree care consistently ranks among the most dangerous activities for homeowners:
- Medical costs: Emergency room visits for chainsaw injuries average $5,000-$10,000
- Lost wages: Recovery time means missed work and income
- Long-term disability: Serious falls can lead to permanent injuries and ongoing medical expenses
- Liability for others: If someone else is injured on your property during DIY tree work, you could be legally responsible
The False Economy of Hiring the Cheapest Tree Service Provider
When homeowners do recognize the need for professional help, many make the mistake of choosing a tree service solely based on price. Here’s why the cheapest option often costs more in the long run:
Inadequate Insurance and Licensing
Low-cost tree service providers frequently lack proper insurance coverage or required licenses. This creates significant financial exposure:
- If a worker is injured on your property, you could be liable for their medical expenses
- Property damage may not be covered, leaving you to pay for repairs
- Permit violations can result in fines from local authorities in Polk and Hillsborough counties
At We Do It All Trees & Landscape, we maintain comprehensive insurance coverage and are fully licensed tree care professionals, protecting both our team and your property.
Poor Quality Tree Work and Tree Damage
Improper pruning techniques can cause lasting damage to trees, creating ongoing expenses:
- Improper cuts lead to disease entry points and decay
- Over-pruning stresses trees, making them vulnerable to pests and disease
- Incorrect timing can weaken trees before storm season in Central Florida
- Topping trees (a common practice by inexperienced providers) destroys tree structure and tree health
These improper tree care practices often necessitate complete tree removal within 3-5 years—a cost that far exceeds proper tree maintenance.
Incomplete Tree Service
Many budget tree service providers offer rock-bottom prices by providing incomplete service:
- Leaving stumps that become hazards and eyesores
- Not properly disposing of tree debris
- Skipping necessary cleanup
- Failing to address underlying tree health issues
As one of our customers, Janet Noah, noted: “So pleased we hired We Do It All to trim all our landscaping & re-mulch everything. They had a team of 4 who did an outstanding job! Personable & friendly people to work with as well is a big plus!”
The Long-Term Value of Professional Tree Care
Professional tree care from We Do It All Trees & Landscape delivers value that extends far beyond the initial service:
Extended Tree Lifespan and Reduced Tree Removal Costs
Mature trees add significant value to your property—between $1,000 and $10,000 per tree, according to multiple real estate analyses. Professional tree care extends tree life by:
- Identifying and treating tree diseases early
- Properly pruning trees to improve structure and resilience
- Removing hazardous deadwood without damaging healthy tree tissue
- Recommending appropriate fertilization and soil management for tree health
When you consider that removing a large, dying tree can cost $1,500-$5,000+, the value of preventative tree care becomes clear.
Storm Damage Prevention
In Central Florida, where hurricane season brings significant risks, properly maintained trees are far less likely to cause property damage during storms:
- Professional tree pruning removes weak or dead branches before they become projectiles
- Structural pruning improves wind resistance
- Early identification of root issues prevents whole-tree failure
- Proper thinning reduces wind resistance while maintaining tree health
As De Andra Duhaylonsod Dew shared in her review: “The first time we used the crew, they trimmed our oak tree branches over the driveway & backyard and trimmed our palm trees before a big storm during the hurricane season.”
Enhanced Property Value
Well-maintained trees and landscapes significantly impact property value:
- Homes with mature, healthy trees sell for 7-19% more than comparable properties
- Attractive landscaping can accelerate a home sale by 4-6 weeks
- Properly placed trees can reduce energy costs by 20-50%
- Strategic tree placement can reduce noise pollution by up to 40%
Comprehensive Solutions Save Multiple Service Fees
As our name suggests, at We Do It All Trees & Landscape, we provide comprehensive tree care services and outdoor services. This integrated approach delivers additional savings:
- Coordinated tree service eliminates multiple service fees
- Comprehensive property assessment identifies related tree care needs
- One point of contact simplifies communication and scheduling
- Consistent quality across all tree care services
Real-World Examples: The Cost of Professional vs. DIY/Budget Tree Care Approaches
To illustrate the financial benefits of professional tree care, consider these comparative scenarios based on our experience serving Central Florida homeowners:
Scenario 1: Regular Tree Maintenance
Professional Tree Care Approach:
- Annual professional tree inspection and maintenance: $300-$600
- Early identification and treatment of tree disease: $150-$300
- Structural tree pruning every 3-5 years: $400-$800
- Total 10-year cost: $2,500-$5,000
- Result: Healthy, beautiful trees that enhance property value
DIY/Budget Tree Care Approach:
- Irregular DIY tree pruning: Equipment costs $300-$500
- Missed tree disease signs leading to tree decline
- Emergency tree removal of dying tree: $1,500-$3,000
- Landscape damage repair: $500-$2,000
- Replacement tree and installation: $500-$1,500
- Total 10-year cost: $3,000-$7,000+
- Result: Lost tree value, property damage, and higher overall costs
Scenario 2: Storm Preparation and Tree Care
Professional Tree Care Approach:
- Pre-hurricane season tree inspection and pruning: $400-$800
- Removal of hazardous deadwood: $300-$600
- Total cost: $700-$1,400
- Result: Minimal storm damage, peace of mind during hurricane season
DIY/Budget Tree Care Approach:
- Neglected tree maintenance or improper tree pruning
- Storm damage to home from falling tree limb: $5,000-$15,000 (insurance deductible: $1,000-$2,500)
- Emergency tree service during storm cleanup: $700-$1,500 (premium rates)
- Total cost: $1,700-$4,000+ (plus insurance premium increases)
- Result: Property damage, stress, and potential safety hazards
When to Invest in Professional Tree Care
To maximize the financial benefits of professional tree care, here are key times to call We Do It All Trees & Landscape:
Preventative Tree Care
- Annual tree inspections: Early spring is ideal for identifying potential tree issues
- Pre-hurricane season tree pruning: Schedule by early May before storm season begins
- After major weather events: Even if no obvious tree damage is visible, have trees checked for structural issues
Signs Your Trees Need Professional Tree Service
- Dead or hanging tree branches
- Cracks in the tree trunk or major limbs
- Leaning trees or exposed tree roots
- Mushrooms growing at the base of the tree
- Hollow areas in the tree trunk
- Peeling bark or unusual leaf drop
New Property Purchase
When buying a new home in Lakeland or elsewhere in Central Florida, a professional tree assessment can:
- Identify potential hazardous tree issues before they become your responsibility
- Provide a tree maintenance plan and budget for future tree care needs
- Help negotiate purchase price if significant tree work is needed
The We Do It All Difference: Value Beyond Price
At We Do It All Trees & Landscape, we deliver exceptional tree service value through:
Tree Care Expertise and Experience
Our team of arborists brings over 20 years of combined industry experience to every tree project. As Lisa Pergament shared: “Robert and his crew did an awesome job and went out of their way to do extra things to make my trees and property look wonderful. They trimmed my trees, removed a tree, did stump grinding, pruned the vines off of my trees and fences.”
Comprehensive Tree Services
As our name suggests, we truly “do it all” when it comes to tree care and outdoor care:
- Tree trimming and tree pruning services
- Tree removal services in Lakeland, FL and surrounding areas
- Stump grinding services
- Emergency tree services
- Landscape design and installation
- Yard beautification
- Fence installation and repair
- And much more
We serve both residential and commercial clients throughout Central Florida with the same exceptional customer service and attention to detail.
Customer-First Approach
We prioritize clear communication, punctuality, and respect for your property. Anel Williams noted: “I have used their service a few times, Rob is the best by far. Very reasonably priced and definitely gets the job done right the first time. When I call him for a quote he is here usually same day, if not the next day.”
Satisfaction Guarantee
As the best tree service in the area, we stand behind our work with a satisfaction guarantee. Our job isn’t done until you’re completely satisfied with the results of our tree care services.
Invest Wisely in Your Trees and Landscape
The trees on your Central Florida property represent both a significant investment and a potential liability. Professional tree care from We Do It All Trees & Landscape protects that investment while preventing costly damage and safety hazards.
Our approach isn’t just about addressing immediate tree concerns—it’s about providing long-term tree care solutions that enhance your property’s beauty, safety, and value for years to come.
Don’t wait until storm damage, tree disease, or declining trees force you into expensive emergency tree services. Contact our expert tree service in Lakeland, FL today at (813) 588-0121 for a free estimate and discover how our professional tree care services can save you money while protecting your home or business in Central Florida.
Whether you need complete tree removal, expert tree trimming, stump grinding, or urgent tree care, our local tree service company is ready to meet all your tree care needs with affordable tree services that don’t compromise on quality.
