Thanks for Considering Ascent

Here are a few things that set us apart from our competitors.

Our estimator Stephen Benson is involved with daily operation of the crew. With some companies, you'll never see the estimator again after the initial estimate, and they are paid on commission. However, Stephen meets with customers as we start the job and assists the crew. Stephen is a Certified Arborist and has been in the industry for over 30 years as a ground worker, tree climber, and foreman.

Ascent will always use biodegradable chainsaw bar oil. This is so we don't leave toxic sawdust behind. This oil lubricates the chain while it buzzes the wood and is part of the sawdust. Most companies use a cheaper petroleum product that is pretty much motor oil. Exactly what we're not supposed to put in the rivers. Plus it's not good for your yard or edible gardens either. Certain jobs use several quarts of oil that wash in and around your yard.

In general, avoid big cuts on trees when you can. They just aren't good for the tree and take a long time to heal. In fact, most big branches are safe, they just need to be thinned and shaped. The thin and shape part takes extra effort on the part of the climber and how he rigs the ropes. The crew knows it's the best way to preserve trees and puts in that extra effort for all our jobs.

A good deal of our firewood is donated to a local homeless shelter. The shelter is a 501c and will give you a deduction on your taxes. Based on the amount of wood donated and generally applies to just tree removals. No soft woods are donated, they don't burn hot enough to heat.

The climber will only spike a tree if it is being removed, a big section is being removed, or the first limb is around 75 feet high. Spiking while pruning is against industry standards and sadly a common shortcut of some competitors. Tree spikes strap around the ankles of climbers and stab into the wood of a tree though the bark.

Please call or email if you have any questions.