FAQs
Estimates & Scheduling
1. Do you offer free estimates?
Yes! We provide free, no-obligation estimates for residential and commercial tree services in San Antonio and surrounding areas.
Important: For free estimates and tree health assessments, we must meet someone in person at the property so our arborist can accurately assess tree size, location, and condition. This ensures we provide the correct recommendations, pricing, and equipment needs.
2. How soon can my service be scheduled?
After your estimate is approved, services are generally scheduled 3-6 weeks out, depending on demand and weather conditions.
Immediate scheduling may be possible for smaller jobs or emergencies, but we are closed on Sundays. If timing changes, we will notify you promptly so you know what to expect.
Payment & Financing
3. What payment methods do you accept?
We accept:
● Cash
● Check
● Major credit and debit cards (3.5% processing fee applies)
● Financing through GreenSky
Note: The 3.5% fee only applies to credit and debit card payments; cash and checks have no extra charge.
4. Do you offer financing?
Yes! We offer flexible financing through GreenSky, which allows you to split payments over time. A secure pre-approval link is available, and our office can help guide you through the process.
Services Overview
5. What tree services do you offer?
We provide tree-specific services only; we do not offer landscaping, irrigation, or general yard work.
Services include:
● Tree removal (including large and hazardous trees)
● Tree trimming & pruning (for safety, aesthetics, and health)
● Stump grinding and removal
● Emergency storm cleanup
● Tree health evaluations and consultations
● Tree planting (arborist-selected trees for best survival)
● Commercial tree services
Note: Our crews perform the hands-on work, while ISA Certified Arborists provide consultation and oversight to ensure every job meets professional standards.
6. Do you offer tree planting?
Yes. We are not a tree nursery, but our arborist personally selects trees from trusted local nurseries that are appropriate for your property. We consider soil type, sun exposure, drainage, and long-term growth to give your tree the best chance to thrive.
7. Do you offer a military discount?
Yes! We proudly provide a military discount. Texas Tree Authority is a Veteran Owned and Operated business, and we are proud to serve our military community.
Oak Wilt
8. What is oak wilt, and what are the signs?
Oak wilt is a serious fungal disease that spreads quickly among live oaks. Signs to watch for include:
● Sudden leaf drop
● Browning leaves from the edges inward
● Brown leaf veins while the rest is green.
● Rapid decline of branches or whole tree, especially in spring or summer
Early detection is critical to prevent spread to other trees.
9. How does oak wilt spread?
Oak wilt spreads primarily through:
● Root grafts: live oaks often share underground roots
● Beetles: attracted to fresh pruning cuts or wounds
Proper pruning practices and timing are crucial to minimize risk.
10. When should oak trees be trimmed?
Trimming in non-restricted areas can safely occur Feb-June if these precautions are followed:
● Cuts are sealed immediately to prevent fungal infection
● Tools and equipment are sanitized between trees
● All debris is removed and disposed of properly
Our crews follow these steps to reduce oak wilt risk while keeping trees healthy.
11. How often should I trim my oaks?
Most healthy oak trees benefit from pruning every 3-5 years. Remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches as needed. Over-pruning too frequently can stress the tree and increase disease risk.
12. Can oak wilt be treated?
Yes – treatment may include the Arborjet Tree I.V, which helps protect the tree and nearby oaks. We do not use trenching. In severe cases where treatment is no longer effective, tree removal may be necessary to protect surrounding trees.
13. Do I need a permit to remove a tree?
Some trees, especially heritage or protected species, require permits. Our arborist handles all permit applications when necessary and ensures all local regulations are followed.
Ball Moss
14. What is ball moss, and is it harmful?
Ball moss is an epiphytic plant that grows on trees but does not feed on them. While usually harmless, excessive growth can:
● Add weight to branches
● Block sunlight
● Make trees more susceptible to breakage
15. How is ball moss removed?
Our team removes ball moss safely using pruning techniques that do not damage the tree, and we advise on long-term care to reduce regrowth.
Job Site & Crew
16. How does your crew handle jobs?
● All employees are W-2 staff, trained in safety and tree care.
● The crew leader reviews the work order at the start and performs a walkthrough at the end.
● Some clients choose not to be home – we recommend being present at least at the start or end for clarity.
17. What safety precautions are taken on-site?
● Crew members wear PPE at all times
● Equipment is regularly inspected and maintained
● Proper pruning, removal, and hauling techniques prevent damage
● Debris and hazards are cleaned promptly
● Extra care is taken near structures, power lines, or sensitive areas
These precautions ensure a safe and professional job.
18. Do you remove nests from trees?
No. We do not touch bird or animal nests, for the safety of both the animals and our crew, and to comply with wildlife protection regulations.
Communication
19. How should I communicate after approving my estimate?
● Scheduling or payment questions: Call our office
● Job or tree questions: Contact your arborist consultant (direct phone on their business card or estimate)
Calling is recommended for immediate answers. You can also email:
● Office: [email protected]
● Arborist: Use the email provided on the business card
Why Choose Texas Tree Authority?
20. Why work with us?
● ISA Certified Arborists on staff for consultation and oversight
● Veteran Owned & Operated
● Fully insured
● Oak wilt expertise
● Financing options available
● Military discount
● Professional, trained W-2 staff
● Clean, safe, and efficient job sites
● Clear communication and walkthroughs
● 5 star company
