Category: Blogging

When it comes to pruning your trees, you can’t really go wrong with using the services of the best tree pruning professionals. They’re able to perform the kind of pruning that you need at the right time, which is crucial to keeping your trees healthy and strong. Plus, they can make sure that they’re able to keep your home safe and protected from any type of damage that might come from a tree fall.

Performing the right kind of pruning at the right time

The purpose of pruning a tree is to improve the overall health of the plant. This includes removal of dead, diseased and damaged branches and limbs, as well as pruning branches and other parts of the plant to maintain its shape and appearance.

Proper pruning is a scientific approach to pruning that is based on the scientific principles of plant physiology. The right kind of pruning can increase a tree’s flower production, fruit production and other attributes.

The best time to prune a tree is during the dormancy of late winter through early spring. This is also the ideal time to remove dead and diseased wood.

During dormancy, diseases are less active and insects are fewer. However, this is not the only time when plants are dormant.

The right time to prune is determined by the type of plant, the growth pattern and the time of year. Aside from the obvious, some other factors to consider include the weather, the climate and the overall health of the plant.

Protecting your home from damage

The first and best way to protect your home is to prevent tree damage from happening in the first place. By pruning the right trees you can minimize or even eliminate your risk of falling branches and other tree related disasters. Similarly, hiring an expert tree service is a smart move. A professional can assess your trees, determine the most effective approach and ensure your trees survive.

Aside from providing shade and a bit of curb appeal, they can also provide a useful function. One is that they can add some much needed privacy. Similarly, they can reduce the overall temperature in the area and even improve your property value.

If you have a large tree near your house, the biggest risk is having a fallen branch strike your roof. If a wind storm hits, you could end up with a massive bill for the repair. Aside from that, damaged trees can cause major damage to your home’s structure.

Preventing insect pests

Insect pests are a major factor in reducing the health of a tree. Some insects can cause stunting, dieback and even death of a tree. The best way to protect your tree is to keep an eye out for signs of infestation.

When your tree has a large infestation, you can expect to see yellowing of the leaves, wilting, and disruption of the new growth. The root system may also be affected. Some insects are resistant to chemical treatments, but there are still some types that can be difficult to control.

Long-horned beetles are particularly damaging to stressed trees. They feed on older needles and weaken the tree. You can reduce their population by cutting down dead limbs. If you live in an area where long-horned beetles are a problem, you can also hire a tree care company to help.

The larvae of this tree insect are cream-colored, legless and create deep feeding tunnels under the bark. Their feeding can cause branch dieback and yellowing of the foliage.

If you are looking for tree removal, there are a number of things to consider before deciding on the service you need. Some of these include a need for insurance, damage caused by the emerald ash borer, and leaning in a dangerous direction.

Stump removal

Stump removal is a process that helps to clear your yard. It allows you to save time and energy by exposing the roots of your trees.

The removal of tree stumps is important because it can be an eyesore and pose a threat to the safety of your family. Decayed stumps may harbor pests, fungi, and disease. They can also damage your appliances.

Stump removal can be a tricky and labor-intensive job. It requires the use of a variety of tools. It is best to hire a professional who has experience and equipment.

To start, you will need to drill holes into the stump. Then, you will fill them with water and nitrogen. This will accelerate the decaying process and weaken the stump. It should take four to six weeks before the stump rots completely.

Leaning in a dangerous direction

If your tree is leaning in a dangerous direction, you might want to remove it. Whether you’re removing the tree yourself or contacting a professional, you’ll need to determine the right course of action.

To cut down a tree in a safe and proper manner, you’ll need to consider the following factors. First, you’ll need to make sure that the roots are intact. This is because the roots will help stabilize the tree and provide nutrients. If the roots are rotting, they’ll no longer be able to grip the soil and keep the tree stable.

Next, you’ll need to consider the size of the tree. If it’s a large one, it may be expensive to remove. The cost will depend on the size of the tree and the obstructions it poses.

Blocking your views

While it is true that your neighbors are vying for your attention, you might not want to lose your cool over the latest tree trimming and pruning procedure. There are actually several legal avenues available to you, depending on the situation. You might be able to ask for a court order to have your neighbor trim their trees.

Most likely you’ll need to negotiate with your neighbor in the first place. If you can’t, consider using a landscaper or gardener to get the job done right the first time around. While this may sound like an inconvenience, it can save you a lot of headaches down the road. It’s also a great way to show off your green thumb. After all, a well cared for lawn will attract more visitors in the long run.

Damage from emerald ash borer disease

Emerald Ash Borer is an invasive pest that attacks ash trees. The larvae of the EAB disrupt the flow of water and nutrients to the tree and cause branch dieback and canopy thinning. The adult emerald ash borer leaves distinctive D-shaped exit holes in the bark.

Although this insect can cause considerable damage to ash trees, it is not a common occurrence. If a tree is infested, it will probably die within two to four years. If you’re not sure if your tree is infested, it’s best to contact your local Department of Agriculture or a pest management professional for a proper diagnosis.

The adult emerald ash borer is about half an inch long. It is metallic green in color and has a coppery red or purple abdomen. It is found on ash trees throughout North America.

Insurance for tree-removal jobs

If you are looking to hire a tree service company, you may want to ask for proof of insurance before you sign on the dotted line. This is because you might be surprised to find out that your homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover the task.

For the real deal, the cost can run into the thousands of dollars, depending on the size and age of the tree. A small tree will typically fetch between $70 and $250, while a large one can cost in the hundreds of thousands of dollars. While you are at it, make sure that you don’t pay in full until the job is done. You may be liable for any accidents that occur while you are on your property.

Luckily, there are plenty of tree services to choose from, but not all of them are created equal. As such, you should do some research to ensure that you hire a qualified arborist. This is especially true if you have a large tree growing in close proximity to your home. The aforementioned trees are more susceptible to damage than ones that are further away, so take precautions before you call in the pros.

Getting rid of a tree that has become a hazard to your home and property can be a very tough process. In addition to the damage that is caused to the tree, there is also the cost involved. There are many different methods to get rid of trees and the type of tree that you have can be a major factor in which method you choose. If you are considering hiring a contractor to remove a tree from your property, make sure you get quotes first to ensure that you are not overpaying.

Pruning vs. lopping

Basically, pruning refers to the process of selectively cutting parts of a plant. It can be used to improve the look of a tree or keep it healthy. It can also be used to prepare plants for transplantation.

The best way to determine whether or not you need to prune a tree is to check its health. Diseased branches can promote growth, encourage pests to invade, and make a tree more vulnerable to decay. You can also remove dead branches to prevent damage to people, buildings, and other structures.

To make sure you are doing the right thing, you should consult a certified arborist or licensed tree technician. They should be able to explain the difference between pruning and tree lopping and recommend the best ways to go about it.

Cost of tree lopping

Whether you are looking for tree lopping services or removal, it is important to understand how much it costs. There are several factors that can influence the cost of tree lopping, so you will need to consider all of these.

The first thing you should know is that the price of tree lopping can vary significantly, depending on the location of the job. You will also need to account for the time it takes to complete the work. Larger trees will require more staff, equipment, and longer completion times. Having a professional tree lopping company perform the work is also important. They will ensure that your property is left clean after they complete the job.

Another factor that can affect the cost of tree removal is the time of year. Aside from the cost of tree lopping, there are other expenses you may have to pay, such as council fees.

Damage caused by tree lopping

Keeping your tree trim is a must for anyone with a yard or two. Not only are the branches a hazard to your health, but their twigs are a hazard to your neighbours’ homes. It’s no secret that tree lopping is a thriving industry in the Sydney South West. So why not call the pros for a free quote?

There are many companies offering the service, and you may have to wade through a bunch to find the right one. The best place to look is at the local council or your state’s tree association. These guys have a big database of qualified arborists. Some even offer a no-obligation quotation, albeit for a fee. You can also do a quick Google search to see if they have any complaints.

Alternatives to tree lopping

Having a well-maintained tree is a beautiful addition to your home. But, if your tree is unhealthy, it may need to be cut down or pruned. While this method can be expensive, it can also protect your property and help you keep it safe. It is a much safer alternative to tree lopping.

Lopping a tree is the process of cutting off large portions of its crown. This removes 50% to 100% of its foliage. The goal of lopping is to thin the canopy, so that the tree can absorb more sunlight. This process leaves behind large stubs of wood that are more susceptible to decay and water damage.

Aside from the danger of falling branches, a lopped tree will lose its natural structure and character. This will result in a disfigured and weak tree that is more vulnerable to pests and diseases.

Choosing a tree removal expert is essential, especially if you want to ensure that the job is done in the safest and most efficient way possible. This is especially important if the tree is located on your property or near your home.

Cost of removing a tree

Whether you’re looking to have a tree removed or you’re wondering about the cost, there are several factors that can impact the price. These include the size of the tree, its location, its height, and the difficulty of the job. The cost can also depend on the tree’s condition.

Removing trees that are diseased or dangerous can also cost more. These types of trees can cause damage to homes and other structures. They can also pose risks to other plants and trees. These diseases include blights, anthracnose, and leaf rust.

Taller trees can also be more expensive to remove. They usually cost between $1,300 and $2,000. They may require multiple days of work. In addition, they are also more difficult to remove. They may have multiple trunks or branches, which adds more work to the removal process.

Smaller trees can also be removed for a lower price. Trees that are less than 30 feet tall can be removed for between $285 and $445. However, the price is much higher if the tree is taller or if it’s in a dangerous position.

Trees that are close to structures, like power lines, may need to be roped down before they’re removed. These types of trees will also have to be checked by a professional to ensure that they’re not dangerous.

Hazards of a dead tree

Having a dead tree on your property can be a real danger. It can cause serious damage to your property, as well as your neighbors’. Especially if the tree is near power lines. It can also be a safety hazard for people and pets.

When a tree has died, it is best to remove it as soon as possible. Even a healthy tree can die due to disease, pests, or aging concerns.

Dead trees are also a safety hazard for people, pets, and wildlife. The trunk can break off and crash into your house, and the branches can become projectile objects during storms. The branches can also damage nearby power lines.

Trees should be checked regularly for signs of disease or other problems. Some tree diseases are contagious. They can spread to other trees in your neighborhood. If your tree has been diseased, you may be liable for the damage. If you have a dead tree in your yard, you should call an arborist. A certified arborist will be able to inspect your tree and advise you of the best methods for removal.

You might also want to call a professional if you have a dead tree in your yard that is near a power line. Dead trees can cause damage to the lines and can lead to a power outage. The damage could be expensive and you could be held responsible for the cost.

Need a permit to cut down a tree on your own property

Whether you are a tree expert or someone new to the flora, it is always a good idea to find out if you need a permit to cut down a tree on your own property. The rules may vary from city to city, but in general, you should have the right permits.

The rules may also vary by region. Some cities have more rigorous rules, like San Francisco, where you are required to have a permit to cut down a tree that is more than 24 inches in diameter. In other cities, like San Jose, you must obtain a permit to cut down a tree two feet tall or more.

If you have a large tree on your property, you may want to consider hiring a professional arborist to cut it down. In addition to being licensed, an arborist will have the right tools to do the job safely. A reputable arborist may also help you find out if you need a permit.

There are several reasons why you should get a permit to cut down a tree. One of the reasons is to protect the environment. Other reasons include safety and protection of other trees and property. If you have a large tree on your premises, it may also be a good idea to have it removed before it falls on your house or becomes a hazard.

Performing Tree Pruning is the process of removing branches from a tree or removing sections of the tree from the overall growth. The proper method of pruning is very important for the health of the tree and the aesthetics of the tree.

Thinning cuts stimulate growth throughout the tree

Using thinning cuts to prune your trees is a great way to remove unwanted, weak or diseased growth. By removing the growth, you are eliminating competition, increasing air circulation, and enhancing light penetration into the interior leaves.

Thinning cuts are often used in older trees to encourage renewal of fruiting shoots. They are also used in ornamental trees to maintain their size. They are most effective when used to maintain the natural form of woody plants.

They also improve air circulation, improve sunlight penetration, and stimulate growth throughout the tree. Fruit trees often benefit from thinning, as it prevents disease and promotes fruit production.

They are also used to stimulate the growth of lateral shoots. This stimulation is proportional to the severity of the pruning.

Pessimistic error pruning

Optimistic pruning is the art of removing non-essential nodes from a tree. This can result in the creation of a smaller but better performing tree.

Pruning is the process of removing parts of a classification model to better explain random variation. This is useful for improving the accuracy of a model on fresh data. Pruning can be performed in a number of ways. Its most common form is the removal of nodes with ight.

The most basic pruning procedure involves identifying a node as a leaf node by using the label of the most popular class in the tree. Then the anticipated error rate of the branch with the node is estimated. This anticipated error is measured in terms of the weighted sum of the expected error rates of its children.

Three-cut method

Using the three-cut method to prune your trees is a great way to remove large branches without damaging the tree bark. Using this method, you will be able to remove the bark and the bulk of the weight from the branch, while also preserving the bark on the main trunk of the tree.

The three cut method involves a sawing motion that makes a saw cut, an undercut, and a final cut. It is important to do this correctly so that the cut will seal properly. The correct cuts will reduce the chance of pest attack and protect the tree from disease.

The first cut is the most important. It should be applied on the underside of the branch and should remove about one quarter of the branch’s weight. It should also leave a slight stub. This will protect the branch collar and allow faster healing of the cut.

Heading cuts

Using heading cuts when tree pruning can be a useful technique to thicken desired branches and to control the growth of branches. However, heading cuts can be detrimental to a tree if they are used improperly. They can cause congestion, disease, and pests. In addition, they can also lead to structural problems, including dead wood.

Heading cuts are commonly made by inexperienced gardeners. A heading cut involves cutting a limb or branch to a weak node. This node is a dormant bud under the bark. It is weaker than a mature node and cannot replace the growth removed by pruning.

The cut is made perpendicular to the long axis of the stem. A heading cut should be made by a minimum of one-third of the previous year’s growth. This allows for new shoots to develop from the lower buds.

Unprune nodes

Generally, the question of whether to unprune nodes after tree pruning depends on the type of decision tree being generated. Pruning can help to reduce overfitting and increase generalisation. In some cases, it can also help to reduce the size of a tree.

Pruning is a commonly employed method for alleviating overfitting problems in decision trees. Pruning is often a part of a practical algorithm and is crucial to learning accurate classifiers.

Pruning can also be used to improve classification accuracy for unseen objects. Pruning can be performed in two main phases. The first phase is tree building and the second is pruning the tree.

Proper technique essential for recovery, health and aesthetics

Using proper techniques for tree pruning is an essential part of maintaining the health and aesthetics of your trees. A good pruning method requires understanding of the biology of trees and their ability to heal themselves after damage. A proper pruning method should also avoid damaging the structure of the tree.

It is important to remember that trees are very sensitive to mechanical and physical injury. Trees are also susceptible to diseases that can spread through woody material that is not properly pruned. The branch bark ridge is the best defense against diseases and insects. This ridge is a narrow, but parallel area of bark that grows on the upper surface of the branch.

Getting a tree lopped can be a good idea, especially if you’re looking to reduce the size of the tree and improve the way it looks. Unfortunately, it’s also possible to end up starving it and leaving it vulnerable to pests and bacterial infection.

Removes dead or diseased limbs

Having a tree with dead or diseased limbs is a danger to your home and family. They can fall and break on people, cars, and other structures. They can also cause significant damage during weather conditions. Fortunately, there are ways to safely remove them.

First, clean away the dead or diseased wood. This will prevent further infection and promote new growth. If you’re not sure how to do it, contact an arborist. They will use a practiced series of cuts to remove the branches. The first cut should be at least one third of the way through the branch. This prevents bark from splitting when you make other cuts.

Next, remove the limbs at the outer edge of the canopy. This will allow more air to flow into the crown. It also will help the tree maintain its structural integrity.

Reduces the overall tree size

Keeping the tree from crashing the party is a big deal, and reducing the overall size of the tree is one way to do it. Reducing the overall tree size by up to 40% can help mitigate the effects of tree sag and encourage future growth. In addition, reducing the overall tree size can also improve the aesthetics of a landscape, and ensure the longevity of a newly planted tree. Fortunately, reducing the tree size is not as daunting as it sounds, and is often an easy task to perform. It’s also important to note that this type of tree planting is a low-cost, high-return endeavor. To reap the rewards of this particular endeavor, you need only a keen eye and the right tools.

To learn more about reducing the overall tree size and improving the overall aesthetics of a landscape, contact us today. Our experienced tree gurus will make your landscape dreams a reality.

Improves appearance

Keeping your tree top trim is a great way to improve the look and feel of your property. However, there is more to tree lopping than just trimming. It’s also important to maintain the health of your trees as well as your property. This can include trimming your trees to avoid disease and pests.

One of the better ways to do this is to have your tree lopped by professionals. Not only will this improve the look of your property, but it will also keep you and your family safe from stray branches. It’s also a good idea to have an outdoor space with a mix of tall and short trees. You should also consider pruning your branches to keep your electric bill down.

It’s no secret that trees are important, and keeping them in tip-top shape will keep them healthy and looking their best. However, keeping them clean and trimmed is not a task for the faint of heart.

Leaves the tree vulnerable to pests and bacterial infection

Whether you’re growing a fruit tree, a nut tree or an ornamental shrub, the leaves of the tree are vulnerable to pests and bacterial infection. Some diseases can kill the tree, while others can reduce its productivity. Knowing the symptoms of the diseases can help you treat the problem.

Leaf spot is one of the most common plant diseases. It is caused by a variety of fungi. These fungi multiply in the plant’s tissues. In wet weather, they spread to new twigs and branches. The result is a dark fungal coating on the leaves. These are sometimes referred to as tar spots.

Besides the fungal infection, the tree is also at risk from insects. The insects are usually insect vectors that can carry the bacterium. These insects can spread the bacterium to other plants. They also spread the disease through the wind.

Can starve a tree

Putting your tree to sleep may be in the cards but the reincarnated tree may live to fight another day. To save the day, a pruning session may be in order. Aside from removing the dead branches, you may have to cut the stumps to bits in order to rejuvenate the venerable oak. Using the right tools and technique, the task may be accomplished with relative ease.

There are no hard and fast rules to follow when it comes to pruning, unless you are in a hurry, of course. A good rule of thumb is to prune at least once a year. For starters, you may want to consider the height of the tree before making the chops. Secondly, if you plan on pruning your trees for good, you will want to consider whether your yard is conducive to pruning or not.

Whether you are looking to prune your trees for aesthetics, health, or safety reasons, there are a few steps you should take to make sure your trees are being cared for properly. These tips include selecting the right tree pruning technique, thinning, and raising.

Selective pruning

Performing selective tree pruning is a great way to improve the health of your trees. It also can enhance the appearance of your property. This type of pruning can remove branches that are obstructing your view. It can also help increase fruit production and flower production.

Selective tree pruning involves cutting branches of specific sizes and types. It can be used to remove branches that are growing over your house, over your buildings or over power lines. It can also improve the sight visibility when entering your driveway.

Selective tree pruning can also be used to make your trees more disease resistant. It can help to remove dead and diseased branches, and increase air circulation. It can also increase the amount of sunlight that can reach the tree canopy. It can also promote new growth.

Selective tree pruning can also help to increase the lifespan of your tree. It can remove dead and diseased branches, and promote new growth. It can also improve the shape and structure of the tree. This type of pruning can also help to reduce the risk of falling branches.

Thinning

Using a Certified Arborist to perform your tree pruning tasks is the safest way to go. Not only are they a wealth of knowledge, they’ll know the best way to go about doing the job. They’re also the best people to talk to about the latest and greatest in the horticultural space. So, if you’re interested in making your property the envy of your friends and neighbors, the best way to go about it is to enlist the services of a competent and certified tree expert. They’ll take the headache out of pruning your trees, leaving you free to get on with your day to day. And with a proper tagging and pruning job, you’ll be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor in no time.

If you’re looking to perform a spruce up on your property, a Certified Arborist can help you do the heavy lifting while you get on with your day to day.

Raising

Increasing the height of a tree is a common practice for tree pruning clients on the Sydney North Shore. In addition to the aesthetic benefit, this practice can also help clear traffic and provide clearance for buildings and vehicles.

To raise a tree’s canopy, you will need a power saw and a ladder. You also will need pruning gloves and work shoes. You will also need to determine where the lowest branches are located.

There are four main types of pruning techniques: crown thinning, crown lifting, canopy raising, and removing the lower branches. Each of these methods has its own benefits and drawbacks.

The most common form of tree pruning is canopy raising. This method involves pruning the lower branches of a tree to a height appropriate for clearance. This allows for better air movement, increased sunlight penetration, and a broader canopy. It can also improve the health of nearby plants.

The process should be done gradually over a period of time. The ratio of live branches to dead ones should be at least 60%.

Reducing

Using removal cuts to remove branches that are damaged or dead can keep trees from rotting and putting people and property at risk. Trees may also need pruning for safety, to prevent disease spread, and to improve the overall look of the tree. Trees can also be pruned to keep from growing into powerlines, buildings, or vehicles.

There are four types of tree pruning: crown reduction, removal, heading, and thinning. Each one has a specific purpose. Reducing is typically used for safety reasons, as it can keep a tree from growing too large. It can also keep a tree from breaking during a storm. It also can take stress off of poorly attached branches. Crown reduction is most often used on mature trees.

Crown reduction is a procedure that involves cutting back about 20 percent of the branches in a tree. The result is a smaller tree. The process is best performed on mature trees, though it can be done annually or every two years.

If you are planning to remove a tree in your yard, stump grinding is an option that you might want to consider. It is an effective way to get rid of a tree stump without removing the root. Moreover, it is a safer and cheaper option compared to tree stump removal. Here are some reasons you might want to consider stump grinding:

Stump grinding is a process that excavates the stump of a tree without removing the root

Stump grinding is a process that allows you to eliminate a tree’s stump without having to cut down the tree or remove the root. A machine grinds away the stump and leaves a fine sawdust residue behind. This material can be ground down to several inches below ground level, depending on your needs. The ground up material is then used as filler around the tree’s stump. Unlike traditional stump removal, this method will not create unsightly holes or damage the surrounding plants.

While stump removal is the preferred method of tree removal, it is sometimes impossible to do so due to nearby structures, utilities, or other obstacles. In such cases, Stump Grinding may be the only option available. Stump grinding is also a safer alternative than stump removal, especially for stumps that are near septic drain fields and utilities.

It is cheaper than tree stump removal

While tree stump removal is generally invasive and requires heavy equipment, stump grinding is much safer and less invasive. This type of service will leave behind a shallow hole, which will be easy to fill in with soil. In addition, stump grinding will preserve the roots of the tree. While the roots will eventually break down and disappear into the ground, they cannot be planted in the area where the stump is located.

While tree stump removal requires heavy equipment and expensive tools, stump grinding is more affordable. Unlike tree stump removal, stump grinding is environmentally friendly, as no chemicals are used. Using chemicals can contaminate the soil and pollute the environment. Some chemicals can also cause a health hazard for people. Moreover, chemical stump removal methods may not be effective for large trees. Stump grinding, though, can save you a lot of time. However, it may take up to 10 years or more for the stump to completely decay and look like a bare stump.

It is faster

Compared to stump removal, stump grinding is much faster. Unlike the former, this procedure doesn’t require digging up the entire stump, which takes more time and manpower. Stump removal also requires digging around the stump to expose the tree roots. However, it is less expensive than stump grinding.

Stump grinding also leaves a much smaller mess than stump removal. Manual stump removal can take hours, depending on its size. Furthermore, stump grinding leaves a small pile of wood chips. This makes clean-up easier. As a result, stump grinding is faster and more convenient than stump removal.

When using stump grinding, you must keep in mind that the depth of grinding is limited. Most tree stumps only extend to about six inches beneath the surface. In addition, if the stump is close to a structure or utility lines, it might be too dangerous to remove it. Grinding too deep can damage a building’s foundation, or damage underground utilities. Whether you use a grinder or a contractor, be sure to check for hidden liability before you start your project.

It is safer

Unlike full-scale tree removal, stump grinding is much safer and more durable. The process of grinding a stump removes it from the tree while cutting off its roots, which die without damaging surrounding plants. It is also more environmentally friendly, leaving no visible hole in the ground. If you’re unsure if stump grinding is right for your home, consult an expert.

First, inspect the work area. Make sure there are no hazards like buried objects or utility lines. You should also wear safety glasses with ANSI certification.

It is more efficient

Unlike stump removal, which involves digging a giant hole and removing the tree’s roots, stump grinding is much easier and quicker. The process also leaves behind very little cleanup. The stump grinding chips are often able to be used for other purposes. This means that you’ll be able to enjoy the same yard without worrying about a giant hole.

Stumps are not only unsightly, but also pose a safety risk. They can also reduce the value of your property. They can also be difficult to remove. And, if they’re close to structures, they may damage underground utilities and foundations. Whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional, you should carefully check for any hidden liabilities.