4 Reasons to Hire a Professional for Snow Removal

Trees add beauty and shade to your property, but when they become a safety hazard, they can put your home and family at risk. Knowing the warning signs of a dangerous tree can help you take action before serious damage occurs. At Hickory Homes & Properties, we provide expert tree removal in the greater Mount Kisco area. Here’s a look at five signs that a tree is creating a safety risk for your home. Leaning or Unstable Trunk A tree that is leaning significantly or has recently developed a tilt could be at risk of falling. While some trees naturally grow at an angle, a sudden lean or an increase in tilting may indicate root damage or instability. Heavy winds, soil erosion, or construction near the tree’s roots can compromise its stability, making it more likely to fall onto your home. Dead/Dying Branches Dead or weakened branches pose a major threat to your home, especially during storms. These branches can break off and damage roofs, windows, and vehicles. If a tree has a large number of dead branches, it could be struggling with disease, pest infestations, or structural weakness. Cracks/Splits in the Trunk Cracks in the trunk can indicate severe structural issues. A tree’s trunk provides essential support, and when it becomes compromised, the tree may not be able to withstand strong winds. Deep cracks or hollow spots can signal internal decay, making the tree more susceptible to collapsing. Exposed or Damaged Roots The root system is vital for a tree’s stability, and damage to the roots can weaken its ability to stay upright. If you notice exposed, rotting, or severed roots, the tree may be at risk of toppling over. A tree with a weakened root system is particularly vulnerable during high winds and storms. Fungus or Pest Infestation Fungal growth or an infestation of wood-boring insects can indicate that a tree is unhealthy and structurally compromised. Mushrooms growing at the base of a tree often suggest internal decay, while holes in the bark may signal the presence of damaging insects. A tree that has been weakened by disease or pests may eventually become too fragile to support its own weight, increasing the likelihood of collapse. Tree Removal in Mount Kisco, NY For tree services in Westchester County, NY , contact Hickory Homes & Properties at  914-215-7429  . Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate for property services in Westchester County!

After cutting down a tree, homeowners sometimes overlook the importance of removing the remaining stump. While it may seem harmless, leaving a stump behind can lead to several problems. At Hickory Homes & Properties, we provide expert stump grinding and removal in Westchester County, NY. Here are five reasons why stump removal is important for maintaining a safe and attractive landscape. Prevent Pest Infestations Tree stumps can quickly become a breeding ground for pests such as termites and ants. As the wood decays, it attracts these insects, which may eventually spread to healthy trees and even your home. Removing the stump eliminates a potential habitat for pests, reducing the risk of infestations that could cause costly damage. Enhance Curb Appeal A tree stump left in the yard can be an eyesore, detracting from the overall beauty of your landscape. Whether you’re maintaining your property for personal enjoyment or preparing to sell, removing the stump improves the appearance of your outdoor space. A clean, stump-free yard enhances curb appeal and leaves a more positive impression on visitors or potential buyers. Eliminate Safety Hazards Stumps pose a significant tripping hazard, especially for children and elderly individuals. They can also damage lawn equipment if accidentally hit while mowing. By removing stumps, you create a safer environment for your family and guests, reducing the risk of injuries and property damage. Prevent Unwanted Tree Growth Leaving a stump behind can lead to unwanted tree sprouts, as the roots may continue to send up new growth. These sprouts can be difficult to control and may require constant trimming. Removing the stump ensures that the tree is completely gone, preventing the hassle of dealing with new shoots. Create More Usable Space A tree stump can take up valuable yard space that could be used for landscaping, gardening, or other outdoor activities. By removing the stump, you free up the area for new plants, lawn expansion, or even a patio or walkway. This improves the functionality of your outdoor space and allows for better use of your property. Stump Grinding & Removal in Mount Kisco, NY For tree services in Westchester County, NY , contact Hickory Homes & Properties at  914-215-7429  . Feel free to give us a call to ask for an estimate for property services in Westchester County!

At Hickory Homes & Properties, we’re proud members of the Mount Kisco small business community. We strive to earn our customers’ total satisfaction by doing top-quality work at fair rates, all while providing friendly service. Our team offers expertise with a variety of services, including tree work, landscaping, demolition, trucking & hauling, and firewood. And we appreciate it when our customers provide feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “Hickory Homes and Properties provides my company with trucking and hauling services, transporting landscaping materials, and equipment transportation. Excellent reliable service every time. Highly recommend.” — Patrick B. “Hickory Homes was wonderful. They did everything as promised and at a very reasonable price. I would definitely use them again and I highly recommend them.” — Brad S. “HHP really blew our expectations out of the water on a recent land clearing project they helped us complete (10 acres). Their grinder is an absolute beast and chewed through the property a lot faster than we ever imagined. Couldn’t recommend this company any more. Owners stuck to their word on all promises made, and made it a real pleasure to do business with.” — John F. “The team was efficient and thorough with snow removal at our property. Great job!” — Francine L. “We order firewood delivery for all of our pizzerias and homes for employees, friends, and family. Great burning firewood, very dry and seasoned wood. Excellent clean stacking service when requested. Highly recommend Hickory Homes firewood!” — Michael C. “I'd like to give a big thanks to the Hickory Homes team that bailed us out on an emergency home heating issue during the holidays! Response time and communication was terrific for home heating oil delivery. We’ve been using them for tree work and excavation for years and will now be using them for our home heating oil deliveries! Thank you again.” — Paul P. Comprehensive Property Services in Mount Kisco, NY For property services in Westchester County, NY, contact Hickory Homes & Properties at  914-215-7429  . Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate for property services in Westchester County!

Transporting heavy machinery requires precision, expertise, and the right equipment to ensure safety and efficiency. Whether you're moving construction equipment, industrial machinery, or agricultural vehicles, hiring an experienced professional is essential. Attempting to haul heavy machinery without the proper knowledge can result in damage, delays, and even legal complications. At Hickory Homes & Properties, we provide expert heavy machinery hauling in Westchester County. Here are four important reasons to trust a professional with your heavy hauling needs. Proper Equipment and Expertise Heavy machinery transport requires specialized trucks, trailers, and rigging equipment to ensure a secure and stable haul. Professional haulers have access to the right tools, including lowboy trailers, flatbeds, and multi-axle rigs designed to handle oversized loads. Beyond having the right equipment, experienced professionals understand the complexities of load distribution, securing machinery properly, and preventing shifting during transit. This expertise minimizes the risk of damage and helps ensure a smooth transport process. Compliance with Regulations Transporting heavy machinery involves adhering to strict regulations. Oversized loads often require special permits, route planning, and escort vehicles to comply with transportation laws. Professional haulers are well-versed in these regulations and ensure all necessary permits and safety measures are in place. Attempting to move heavy machinery without understanding legal requirements can result in hefty fines and delays. Hiring an experienced hauler eliminates these risks and ensures legal transport. Safety for Your Equipment and Others Hauling large machinery presents significant safety risks if not done correctly. Improper loading, unsecured cargo, or exceeding weight limits can lead to serious accidents on the road. Experienced professionals prioritize safety by conducting thorough inspections, using high-quality securing mechanisms, and following proper loading and unloading procedures. Reliable and Efficient Transport Hiring an experienced professional helps ensure that your machinery reaches its destination on time and in excellent condition. Professionals have the logistical knowledge to plan the most efficient route. When time-sensitive projects depend on timely equipment delivery, trusting a professional helps ensure everything stays on schedule. Heavy Machinery Hauling in Westchester County For hauling services in Westchester County, NY , contact Hickory Homes & Properties at  914-215-7429  . Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate for property services in Westchester County and the surrounding New York areas!

Sitting around a great fire helps to bring family and friends together. Whether it's in the replace in your living room, or outside around the fire pit, having the proper wood is key. A great fire is more than just gathering some wood, stacking it and lighting it. There are a few things to consider when preparing for a fire. It's important to make the right choice of firewood for cleaner, safer, longer burning fires. There are many types of wood that can be used for firewood. Each have their own properties when burning. Choosing to burn inside or outside will affect your choice of wood. OAK Abundant in NY state a dense hardwood tree, so it burns for a very long time doesn't need much maintenance once it starts. MAPLE A deciduous hardwood tree offering good heat difficult to start but burns well once it gets going produces very little smoke, which is good for outside bonfire parties. CHERRY Produces little smoke produces a sweet aroma when burning that can be very pleasant on a fall evening burns at medium heat good for a night of mild temperature and weather. BIRCH TREES A softer wood, a great fire-starter because it burns very quickly types of firewood burns bright and hot. PINE A great fire-starter should only be burned outdoors because of its high sap and resin content - can be smokey at times pleasant burning aroma because it burns quickly, pine should be used with other, longer burning woods. ELM A dense hardwood, common in the area provides good heat can produce good firewood because of how dry the wood is. Over the last few years, residents in Westchester County and the surrounding areas enjoy outdoor fires around fire pits in the fall and winter. However, on very cold nights or inclement weather, an indoor fire can be ideal. Here are some tips when planning a fire. Outdoor Fire L arger pieces and more junk-type wood could be used little to clean up since all the wood mess remains outside consider how close you are to neighbors and use wood with minimal smoke move fire pit out from under trees. Indoor Fire Quality wood (size and moisture content) is best so as to prevent the build up of creosote in the chimney and smoke in the home need to make sure you get an annual chimney check keep debris clear from your chimney top and consider installing a chimney cap use a replace screen to control sparking. Tinder This is what will catch the spark and ignite the kindling (can be shredded paper). Kindling Small pieces of dry wood (approximately an inch or two in diameter). Pile the shredded paper in the middle of the fire pit Build a 'teepee' of kindling around the tinder Stack the burning logs over the kindling Ignite the paper in several places, preferably lighting the tinder first. Fan the fire so it burns hotter and faster and gets the stack on fire. Once the logs catch, all you have to do is feed the fire. If you know that you will be building fires throughout the cooler months, it's best to order wood in quantity and have it delivered. Your other option could be chopping your own wood, or buying small, wrapped amounts of firewood from local stores or supermarkets. This can get costly. Since most residents in Westchester County don't necessarily chop their own wood, ordering firewood from a local landscaping company is usually the way to go. Only buy firewood that is sold in a cord. A cord is a legal unit. Need Firewood? Call Hickory Homes & Properties at  914-215-7429  for your firewood needs. We can deliver firewood for the cold months of the year. Bundle up with a large stock of firewood while supplies last and stay warm! We will work with you to determine the proper amount of wood you need for the season and schedule automatic deliveries. Fully seasoned and split to 16-20" length. Same day delivery available. Stacking and on-site firewood splitting services available upon request. Call to Schedule a Firewood Delivery.