Jack Magai
ISA Certified Arborist
# PN-1157A
FAQ
When is the best time of year to prune a tree?
Usually there is no best time of year. Exceptions may involve: the life cycles of insects or fungi which attack the tree in question; maximization of fruiting or flowering; recent or ongoing stresses; and seasonal changes in the attachment of bark.
Do you work in the winter?
Yes. Deep snow or ice will impede some work. Cabling usually not below 10 degrees F.
Do you give free estimates?
Within a 20-minute radius of Troy, or when otherwise convenient, yes. Beyond that we charge for travel, though will deduct that cost from a substantial bill for services resulting from the visit.
Are you insured?
Yes. Details on insurance page.
How much do you charge?
After looking at the trees and talking with the customers, we normally make a proposal to perform certain work for a stated fee.
What’s your hourly rate?
Jack’s time is billed at $100./hr.; Other climbers $50-80./hr.; $40./hr. for groundpeople. These rates apply to travel too. We’d rather be climbing trees than sitting in a car.
Do you charge sales tax?
For pruning in New York State, yes.
Do you cut down trees?
Sometimes, yes. If it is a straightforward job or one which is large enough to use a crane, we often cannot compete with companies whose business is mostly removing trees.