Surviving the Winter in Derby CT

The town of Derby is an old, historic town located in New Haven County, CT. Many old factories, such as the Derby Silver Company, made Derby what it is today. It was a big manufacturing town, and gave the town much of its history. Since it is known as the “valley” area, it is a very wooded area. It is a small town with 5 square miles of land, boasting with a large wooded area.

Unfortunately, being in a heavily wooded area often poses danger in the winter. Trees in the valley are liable to become weakened by strong winds or heavy snow. Since Derby has many hills, transportation will be more difficult during winter. If trees fall on hills, more destruction can be done than a town with a flat landscape.

Winter can damage trees in many ways, and some of the signs to look for are: frost cracks in the tree, falling branches, bark discoloration, bark peeling off, etc. These are some of the signs that trees are weak and their health needs to be double checked. If these problems persist for too long, than the tree can potentially fall over and cause some serious hazards.

Luckily, Precision Cutting Services is here for all of you tree removal needs. With over 20 years of tree service experience, we bring knowledge in design, installation, landscaping and tree service. We do many tree services from stump grinding to complete tree removal to ensure that your town has a safe winter this year. Contact today and we will gladly service your trees safely and provide you with peace of mind!

Upcoming Winter Events in Monroe CT

An upcoming event near Monroe CT for this holiday season will be the 13th annual Save the Children Star Shine Plunge. For this event, a Polar Plunge will take place at Jennings beach on January 1st at 9:30 AM, 880 south Benson Road in Fairfield. Money will be raised for Save the children. Celebrate this fun, annual winter event for a good cause!

Since outdoor activities are always a concern in the winter, we advice people to look out for signs of tree damage to prevent a hazardous condition. Many trees become weak from the frigid cold weather, and could develop frost cracks. If you find frost cracks or areas of a tree with missing bark, then it may be time to analyze your trees.

Heavy winds and snow can threaten outdoor events since winds can loosen branches, and heavy snow can make trees fall.  Severe winter weather can damage trees in a few ways. Trees can become discolored, roots can become damaged, branches can bend and break, and salt can also damage the tree.

So if you think that you have trees in danger of falling this winter, contact Precision Cutting Services today. We are the tree specialists, and can safely and quickly remove any hazardous tree. For emergency tree removal services, we are available 24 hours. From stump grind and limb cutting to removing fallen trees - we are there for all of your tree needs.

Winter Weather Warnings for Shelton CT

A cold weather advisory was issued for the town of Shelton CT by Governor Dannel P. Malloy and the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection for severe cold and winds. Bitter cold temperatures with single digits was forecast from December 15-17, and may continue throughout the month of December and into January.

Those in need of shelter should are advised to seek shelter during these winter months during this weather emergency. Conditions this winter are severe and are predicted to worsen. Severe winds and heavy snow can cause trees to weaken and fall. People should stay in houses during times of high winds, which can cause tree branches to loosen and fall down. The weight of heavy snow on trees can definitely cause trees to fall over, posing a danger to citizens passing by.

If you see a tree that looks like it is dying from the harsh winter weather conditions, do not hesitate to contact Precision Cutting Services. Trees can easily freeze during cold temperatures, and rot on the inside. These trees can easily fall on houses and cause further damage to property. Trees that have cracks, missing bark or a leaning trunk should be looked at by a professional.

From minor tree branch cutting to emergency tree removal, Precision Cutting Services is always there. For emergency tree removal services, we are available 24 hours. Free quotes are provided with all services, which are done by tree experts with at least 5 years of experience. So if you want your trees safely and precisely removed - with individually customized projects - then look no further!

How Winter Affects Transportation in Seymour CT

Seymour, CT has a vast amount of history, with the Seymour train station contributing to a big part of it. The train station provides many people transportation to and from work,and is a commuter rail service which goes to Bridgeport, Stamford and the Grand Central Terminal. Being that it is such an important aspect to Seymour’s community, a major storm might affect transportation routes.

Safety to the town of Seymour is important. As fall has come to an end and winter has just begun, dangerous conditions are on their way. Winter affects trees in different ways from salt damage to frost cracks. Temperatures falling below freezing promote tree injury and even death. Trees are very sensitive to extreme weather, so take notice in drastic changes with the condition of trees.

In the event of a serious storm such as a blizzard, transportation in and out of the city may come to a halt. Due to heavy winds from a snow storm, trees and branches may fall down blocking roads and covering train tracks. Heavy snow and cold weather can also weaken trees and cause the tree to die or even completely fall down.

Luckily, with Precision Cutting Services close by, citizens of Seymour do not have to worry about being out of major transportation access for too long. We are experienced in emergency tree removal, and provide 24 hour emergency service. Secure your town today, and even receive a free tree removal estimate on us!

Preparing for Tropical Storms that May Reach Connecticut

For the East Coast, September is still the season for incoming Tropical Storms. As a state near the beach, it is impeccable that we must take precautions. Tropical storm Hermine hit the East Coast the first week in September, luckily just leaving us with heavy winds, rain and minor flooding. Fortunately, Tropical storm Hermine was able to shift its most damaging winds offshore - which would have caused severe flooding if it hit.

Since Hurricane Sandy hit CT in 2012, residents in CT especially along the shore are prepared for the worst again. Severe destruction happened that day, with homes near the coast completely destroyed and submerged by water. Emergency evacuations were called beforehand, as the water level rose to 13.88 feet above average low tide.

As Hurricane Sandy began as a minor tropical wave, it quickly changed from a tropical depression to a tropical storm. As its winds hit 74 mph, it became a hurricane. It only took 6 hours for Sandy became a hurricane from a tropical storm, leaving residents to worry about their safety with Tropical Storm Hermine. The underestimation of a storm’s strength is often when residents, especially along the coastline, are the most in danger.

Hurricane season officially ends on November 20th, which still gives the United States a lot to worry
about. Connecticut still has the chance to be affected by upcoming storms, damaging power lines, and knocking down trees over major roads. Storms like these pose a threat when trees fall on houses and major roadways, leaving residents left stranded until help can arrive. For upcoming disasters, Precision Cutting Services provides Emergency Tree Removal to ensure residents safety of the aftermath of any Tropical Storm. We give residents the peace of mind in case a storm happens, so they can enjoy further enjoy summer knowing we’re there at their side.

Outdoor Events for Back to School Students

Back to school can be a stressful event for any college student from figuring out classes and buying books to submitting within deadlines. Luckily, there are a lot of events for college students to partake in to feel more at home and make their college years a time to remember. Outdoor events are common for colleges to host. Some of the events may include celebrations welcoming first year college students, outdoor movie nights, initiations for school clubs and Greek Life, concerts, fundraisers, outdoor theatres, and so much more!

There are many events of all kinds for college students to enjoy. One of them includes volunteering to help the local community through community outreach programs, such as the Outreach program at Hamilton College. These not only network students with employees and non-profit organizations, but the help the students to get a sense of purpose, and encourage leadership and student involvement!

Some outdoor clubs that are available for most colleges include clubs sports like running, frisbee, volleyball and basketball. Local New Haven colleges, such as SCSU have a list of Club Sports here. There are many club sports for students to get involved in without feeling pressured for commitment. There are club sports for all levels - from clubs recreational in nature to clubs providing the chance for serious competition.

With fun outdoor college events in mind, there is always a chance for bad weather. Making sure that tree limbs are not loose, or trees are not dead is the first step to campus event safety. If you find that your trees are in need of cutting, contact Precision Cutting Services today for tree removal services. We want your outdoor college events to be safe and enjoyable from Freshman to Senior year!

Enjoying fall at the City Seed Market

Each Saturday week, New Haven hosts the City Seed Market in Wooster Square. This farmer’s market runs from 9 AM to 1PM and provides, fresh, local foods made here in the heart of New Haven. Come support our city while enjoying fresh produce and meats to pastries and French Crepes. We have something for everyone to enjoy, engaging the community with economic development while promoting healthy food.

The City Seed Market runs in Wooster Square from 9AM - 1PM until December 17th. Our other locations in New Haven include: Edgewood Park, Downtown and Fairhaven. Visit the City Seed website to find out the different days and times held for each location. When the winter months set in, these markets will close, and we will open the Winter Market from January - March.

For every outdoor event there is always the weather factor to take into account. For those rainy, windy days of the fall, there is a potential for the weather to affect trees. Loose limbs and dead trees need to be taken care of before the fall, and with the harsh weather coming soon - it is nothing to mess around with. Contact Precision Cutting Services for tree removal in CT, to make sure all of your outdoor events are safe and enjoyable!

Harvest Festival in Ansonia CT

On September 24th, the annual Harvest Festival will be held on Main Street in Ansonia. Enjoy crafts, music, food vendors and entertainment. Different harvest events will be going on including: pumpkin contests and decorating, the “Roaming Railroad” traveling down main street, ethnic foods, a scarecrow contest and much more! There are many activities for you and your family to cherish during this fall season.

From local performers and dancers to celebrating fall with pumpkins and gourds - this will be a day for for the whole family to enjoy. Fried foods and autumn dishes will be of abundance throughout the festival. Since it is the fall and it is the season to anticipate unusual weather, the event will be hosted rain or shine. In the event of a storm, it is likely for trees to be affected. Precision Cutting Services can help with with damaged tree removal, to continue have safe autumn family events!

Summer Events for Adults in Durham CT

There are many exciting events this summer for adults in the Durham, CT area to enjoy. Some of these events include live music by Flogging Molly at the Oakdale Theatre on August 18th at 7PM. Free summer music featuring the Patrones is being held at PowderRidge Mountain on August 20th at 7PM. Since this is an outdoor event, weather is always a big concern during the summer. It is important for an outdoor area to inspect the health of their trees from a licensed tree inspector, like Durham tree removal service. We will ensure safety of your outdoor events, so you can enjoy our summer worry-free!

For other featured events for the Artsy adults, a beginning watercolor class is being held at the New Britain Museum of American Art (on August 8th). Another class offered for creative adults is a portrait class held on August 16th at 10 AM with Celina Marquis. These classes allow students to use different mediums from oil paint to watercolor paint. Another fun class being offered by New Britain Museum of Art on August 18th at 5:30 PM is called the Modernism Mule. This is a pop-up bar, with a free entry, where you make your own drinks! It's 5 dollars for each drink, and the drink list includes: wine, cold beer and craft cocktails. There are many summer events for adults to choose from in the Durham area during the summer, that will suit all different tastes!

Summer Events for the Family in Durham CT

Durham is a town in Middlesex County, CT. Some of the upcoming events in Durham this summer include fun events for the whole family. We have a variety of fun-filled options to fulfill all different interests. On August 12th, we have Playdates with Art at the New Britain Museum of American art. In this event, parents will learn how to educate their babies with art. For August 13th – calling all car lovers! We have free music and a car show at Powder Ridge Mountain.The host of PBS kids, Steve Songs, will be joining us at Lyman Orchards at 2PM for a day of music at the Apple Barrel tent. Enjoy fresh apples with your kids while dancing and singing with educational music. On August 19th at 9 PM we have Club Flight at the Flight Trampoline Park. This is ages 15 and up includes a fun night where the lights are turned off for the lasers to come on!

Some of the outdoor events featured this summer, although fun, may pose a danger. Since summer storms pose a threat to trees and tree limbs, it is wise to inspect the areas for dead trees or hanging limbs. You can count on Tree Removal Durham, to inspect your property, to make sure your event this summer is not only safe but a time for the family to remember!

Caring for Trees

Water

Each tree needs 25 gallons of water each week or 1.5 inches of rain

You can prevent water runoff:

• Including a 25 gallon slow-release watering bag to your maintenance routine. Fill it up once per week.

• Put a bucket at the bottom of your tree that is can hold 5 gallons of water. Make sure the bucket has holes and fill 5 times per week.

• Power on a house for a half an hour and place at the bottom of the tree. Turn the water on low to not overflow the tree.

Keep Lawn Equipment Away From Trees

• Line a trunk guard at the bottom of the tree to keep the water and nutrients inside. This will protect animals and rodents from getting in as well.

Pruning

• Tools – Make sure to use clean, sanitized tools. Make sure that they are not dull before use.

Timing

• It’s better to get rid of damaged or diseased trees at the soonest time possible. Do not wait too long

• Pruning should be done from December to mid-March, because it’s best during dormant season. You can better see the trees structure when the leaves have fallen

• Trees that flower in the Spring should be pruned after flowering. Other trees that flower, to prevent spread of plant disease, should be pruned in dormant season

Soil

• Nutrient deficiencies will affect the quality of the soil, so be sure to purchase top quality soil. Soil that is rich in organic matter is the best because it is free of toxins and pesticides that may slow plant growth.
• Soil quality will affect your landscape. Healthy soil will filter through any pollution to your plans, and give nutrients to your trees
• Health soil will appear to be darker in color since it is dense with organic matter
• It should contain: plant and animal activity, worms, and fungi.

In case your tree still fails after all of these tips for the upcoming summer season, let us know so we can help! We will carefully inspect your tree and if needed, we can remove it. We have specially trained staff who have 5 or more years of experience with handling trees. For tree removal in Hamden CT, contact us at  (203) 466-2400 to receive a free quote!

Tips for Tree Trimming Safety

Tree trimming can require very advanced equipment and high climbing. Aerial lifts may be required to reach high branches, along with power tools like trimmers and chainsaws. If you are not trained to do this correctly, you can be at risk for electrocution or falls. It is important if you are not an experienced tree climber to contact someone who is qualified in Tree Removal in Durham CT.

1. Protective Gear - Always wear gloves when trimming trees and branches. Wear leather lineman’s gloves, which are the protection from this type of job. Wear special glasses to protect your eyes from dust, insects, wood particles, etc. Use ear protection from the loud power tools - earplugs would be a good option. Be mindful of fall protection, and don’t forget to wear slip-free shoes.
2. Carefully Assess Before Performing the Job - Since every tree job in different, it is important to assess any dangers. Check local weather conditions, sharpen tools, put fall protection into place, inspect equipment, secure your ladder, and perform any other safety methods before starting the job.
3. Mark Off the Area you Are Working On - Use bright caution tape or cones around the tree you are working on. If your work goes into the road, then wear bright clothing so cars passing by can see you.
4. Working with a Partner -  It’s important for safety reasons to have someone inspect out any safety issues around the area you are working on. If you are climbing a ladder, someone should be on the ground to stabilize the ladder for you.
5. No Conductive Tools Near Powerlines - Don't’ use any tools or equipment that can conduct electricity and start a fire. Ladders, pole trimmers, and various other tools will conduct electricity, so be sure to research the correct tools to use. Any power lines that are down still have electricity, which can still be deadly if you get too close.
6. Keep Distance From Power Lines - Do not get very close to power lines. Do not get to close unless you have to, and do not turn off power to the lines unless you are trained. Always contact the utility company if your job requires you to get close to any power lines.
7. Check That Your Tree Is Stable Before You Climb - If your trees have cracks or weakness in them, then it is not safe to climb. A tree lift would be necessary when the tree is too weak.  Do not use weak or dead branches for supporting your weight. When climbing, have someone stay on the ground for safety, and use separate tree limbs for your hands and feet when climbing.

When a Tree Should be Removed

 

Do not hesitate when you see something strange going on with your tree. There are many reasons trees may need to be removed from your property from old age to disease. Trees that are too old become a risk to you and your family’s safety. In this case, the best option is to have your tree removed rather than endanger your household.


Some of the signs to look for to call in someone to evaluate your trees are:


Examining For Any Leaning  Trees

Some trees lean naturally, but if this happens to be new with your tree, than your tree can be very unstable. Any tree that is leaning is usually means that it is in danger of dying or is already dead. Contacting us or Tree removal in Hamden CT may be your best option!


Inspect the Tree Trunk

Any cracks or cavities in the trunk can destabilize the structure. Trees should be examined to see if they are structurally sound; this does not necessarily mean they have to be removed. A cavity may be small enough for the tree to handle, or it may be too large for the tree to hold up on its own.

Inspect the Roots

You can get a lot of information on the health of your tree by inspecting its roots. When the roots are damaged or decaying, the tree will not have a good structure to stand on. This means that your tree may have lost its structural support, and can potentially fall. If the base of the tree has space between the tree and the ground, that is also a sign that your tree’s structure is compromised. This can cause tree lean and cause tree damage.

Have a Canopy Inspection Done

A canopy inspection needs to be done by a professional. This will find the hidden and most dangerous branches on the tree. There may be little to no signs that a branch is broken or dead until after the break. Any branch that has bark missing or dead leaves usually means the branch is not being held up by the tree. These are the branches that need to be removed immediately for safety reasons.

How to Prep Your Trees for Summer Storms

Inspect Your Yard

Summer is an important time to keep up with the health and wellness of your trees. One of the first things to do is inspect your landscape for any signs of disease or issues with insects. A visual test is the most basic test. By looking at your tree, does anything strange pop out at you like growing fungus, open wounds or soft spots? Large cracks in wood will make the tree unstable in high winds. Any of these conditions can make a tree more likely to fall and damage your property.

Pruning

Pruning your trees is important for the growth and maintenance of your trees. Some of the healthiest trees come from just keeping up with pruning. By pruning diseased, dead or unsafe branches, you can help maintain the structure of your tree with healthy growth over the years.

Removing or Stabilizing Weak Limbs

You can cable or brace weak limbs that you are unable to remove. Ultimately you will want to remove weak limbs so they do not damage anything surrounding the tree. Cabling will make the tree branches stronger, and prevent from limbs suffering further weakening and damaging and ultimately fall. If your tree falls, you should contact us for tree removal in Wallingford CT.

Mulching

The root of the tree is also important to protect since it holds up the structure of the tree. Having a circle of mulch surrounding the base of the tree will help to prevent lawn mowing equipment from getting too close to the tree. The equipment can hit the roots and cause major damage to the tree. By keeping space for mulch, this will allow for the flow of nutrients and water to drain through the soil.

Tree Damage in the Summer

Many people worry about damage to trees in the winter, but the Summer is when trees are the most damaged from storms and disease. The structural damage to trees in the summer from different fungus, insects and storms are even more concerning than the ice damage caused in the winter. It’s always good to have your trees checked over to make sure they are in proper condition and health.

Many types of trees during the summer are unfortunately affected by the different weather elements during the summer. Birch trees are the most common trees to have stress from the different conditions. During the summer, beetles called Bronze Birch Borer feed below the bark of the tree - where it’s rich in nutrients. They usually attack trees under stress, but most aged birch trees are all under some level of stress. These beetles can be eliminated with insecticides to ensure your tree remains in proper health.

July is a common month to start seeing crab apple trees become diseased and lose their leaves prematurely. This is due to Apple Scrab, a fungus that attacks the tree. By the time people notice the trees losing leaves, it may be too late to control the condition. This will not kill the tree, but will damage and reduce the value of the tree. Trees become infected often in early spring, so be sure to take preventative measures before it’s too late.

Another disease that will affect trees during the summer is the Dutch Elm Disease which is a fungus that will attack the tree which cause brown streaking in the wood and leaves to turn from yellow to brown.Fungicides injected into the trunk of the tree will prevent the tree from becoming diseased.

It is important to take preventative measures this summer in order to keep your trees in top shape. If your trees become diseased, proper removal may be necessary with a licensed tree removal service in Hamden CT. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at (203)466-2400.

Being Mindful of Heavy Tree limbs and Debris

Winter in New England is certainly a site to behold. From sledding to taking the kids outside to building a snowman, it's safe to say that the folks in Connecticut enjoy a winter with a few good snowstorms. However, the type of snow can vary, depending on the time of year. An early or late snow may melt almost as soon as it hits the ground, but a true blizzard with strong winds can do an equal amount of damage to property as a strong summer thunderstorm.

Several years ago, residents had begun to worry about heavy, old tree limbs on Baldwin Road and Fox Hill Road in Woodbridge, CT. Heavy snow can accumulate on these branches, causing them to fall on property, cars, or even residents. These problems have since been removed, but if you have an old tree in your yard that you have concerns about, it's best to get it checked out.

Precision Cutting Services can provide tree removal in Woodbridge, CT, giving homeowners a free estimate any time of year, to let you know if dangerous branches should be removed, or if the entire tree must go. As beautiful and vital as trees are to nature, heavy wind, snow, rain, and lightning can cause an entire tree or its dead branches to fall. The best time to get a tree evaluated is in the early fall or spring, as the tree's "growing season" is during the summer. However, we are happy to provide a free estimate all year round.

We are experts in the field of tree removal, including complete removal of the tree, or just harmful branches. For those who have an unsightly stump in their yard, we also provide stump grinding and excavation. Be safe no matter what season it is, by having old, dead trees in your yard taken care of. Call Precision Cutting Services today at (203)466-2400 to speak with a member of our professional staff.

Exploring Nature in Wallingford CT

Warmer weather often equates to getting back to nature. After being cooped up indoors for the majority of a New England winter, residents simply can't wait to get outside and enjoy hiking, fishing, and swimming and sunbathing when the weather gets really warm.

Scenic Connecticut has an innumerable amount of trails through its borders, and the Greater New Haven area is no exception. While every park or area is different, residents enjoy barbecuing, camping, fishing, kayaking, and swimming in many of the local parks.

Residents in Wallingford can enjoy the over 200 acres of hiking and trails provided by the Wallingford Land Trust. Nestled in sometimes suburban and retail areas, you may never know they were there unless you looked on a map. For example, Spruce Glen is nestled in a 2-mile long trail next to Barnes Industrial Park, but this 2-mile hike allows you to see beautiful trees, birds, and even a small waterfall.

Another Wallingford Land Trust property is West Dayton Hill, which leads directly into the Dayton Hill Woods. This 7-mile mike has two trailheads; one on Fox Run Drive in Wallingford, and one on Country Way.

Wallingford residents may also enjoy nature right in their own backyard, with lush trees and open spaces. Backyard fun in the summer can include a dip in the kiddie pool, a nap in the hammock, or simply enjoying the shade reading a good book. However, old trees can decay and begin to rot, rendering them a safety concern. Summer can also bring thunderstorms with high winds and strong lightning, with the ability to knock dead trees and branches to the ground, destroying everything in their wake.

Call Precision Cutting Services for any and all needs for tree removal in Wallingford, CT. We are more than happy to provide you with a free estimate, and can advise you if trees need to be removed from your property for safety concerns. In addition to tree removal, we also provide branch removal and stump excavation. Safety is our first concern, and we want all local residents to be safe all year long. For more information, please give Precision Cutting Services a call at (203)466-2400 to speak with a member of our professional staff.