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What to Look for in a Tree Service Company in Middle Tennessee

March 7, 2024June 26, 2013 by The Parke Company

When it’s time to contract a reputable tree service company in Nashville, most people know the obvious. Make sure the company is qualified, professional and is great at customer service. But sometimes there are some things that are less obvious, such as proper insurance and class codes. It’s important to do your research. Not only are reputable companies important for a good experience, but it also keeps you from unnecessary hassle. Here are some things to look for when hiring the tree service company.

Qualifications:

The tree service company should be properly class coded (code # 0106) within their Workers’ Compensation for tree trimming work. Other class codes for landscaping, etc. are not the same and can have legal and liable ramifications. In the event the company hired is not properly class-coded and there is a problem during tree work, the homeowner is at risk for liability.
The tree service company must also have general liability for insurance.
If the job is over $25,000, the company also needs to be licensed as a general contractor.
The tree service company should also be a certified arborist.

Customer Service:

Make sure the company will provide a written estimate.
The company should be willing to answer any and all questions.
A great quality in a tree service company’s customer service is follow-ups after completion to make sure their customers are happy.

Professionalism:

The tree service company should always show up to work on time.
The company keeps a clean environment and picks up after their work is completed.
The company is both polite and respectful.

If you have any questions about any of these points, the Parke Company is readily available to answer all of your questions. Not only does the Parke Company have years of experience, but they also meet all qualifications listed above, including insurance and class codes. The Parke Company services all of Nashville and Middle Tennessee. To schedule a service (including tree removal, stump grinding, fire wood and much more), call the Parke Company today at (615) 405-6548.

Trees and Tornadoes: Handling Severe Storms in Nashville

March 7, 2024June 19, 2013 by The Parke Company

Tornado season is underway and a real threat in many parts of the country. These deadly storms can whisk an entire piece of land away in a matter of minutes without much warning. It is important to stay cautious and be prepared if a tornado or a large storm comes through Nashville. Have an emergency kit for your home, discuss your emergency plans with your family and be sure your house is well maintained. So, is there anything you can do for your yard? Unfortunately, since the landscape can’t come inside with you, you have to be sure your trees are armed against the elements.

Have a health evaluation done on your tree regularly to ensure your tree can stand strong against large storms. The Parke Company can do a comprehensive analysis of your tree regarding insect infestation, disease, and water and soil conditions.

Remove any access deadwood or brush. This small and easy chore is necessary for many reasons, including severe storm and tornado safety. This will decrease the risk of limbs and other brush falling on your property causing damage.

If a tree does fall after a severe storm and/or tornado, call the Parke Company’s emergency services for assistance. They will be able to help you with services such as tree removal, stump grinding, clean debris, and chip and mulching to restore your home back to how it was before the storm.

From the hills of Bellevue to the neighborhoods of East Nashville, Nashville and Middle Tennessee are areas to be cautious of severe storms and tornadoes during this time of year. Be prepared for every level of severity for both inside your home and outside. For more information about the Parke Company’s services, including their emergency service, call (615) 405-6548.

Nashville Area Landscape Irrigation Associations Provide Assurance

March 7, 2024June 15, 2013 by The Parke Company

irrigation-association-nashville-tn Irrigation companies are equipped to handle most situations associated with your lawn. The Parke Company in Nashville, Tenn. provides services such as tree care, landscape construction, plant health care, irrigation and waterscapes. When considering hiring a certified irrigation contractor, it’s important to search for one who is affiliated with irrigation associations. These associations provide numerous benefits. Here are a few:

Education: Irrigation Associations develop a common core of standards for irrigation contractors and professionals. Through standardized education, certification and public policy, associations like the National Irrigation Association help ensure that the irrigation industry is competitive and exclusive.

Research: Irrigation associations provide a centralized hub for ongoing research regarding irrigation best practices. Partnering with a company that has these affiliations ensures that you’re getting access to the most current and thorough research available.

Public Policy: The government regulations regarding lawn irrigation can change quickly. To maintain an association’s irrigation license, contractors must adhere to these changing policies. This way, the customer can have confidence in the contractor’s use of the water resources, technology and management.

It’s also important to remember that landscape irrigation businesses do a lot more than just irrigation. Take inventory of all the services that are offered at the company you’re researching, and look into certification associations available. For example, at The Parke Company, we have certified arborists through the International Society of Arboriculture. Nashville-area irrigation contractors should contact The Parke Company today at (615)-207-8390 to find out more information regarding landscape irrigation association certifications and benefits.

Fire, Foliage and Fourth of July: How the Parke Company Can Help

March 7, 2024June 12, 2013 by The Parke Company

Fourth of July is right around the corner. Fireworks in Riverfront Park, cookouts in Centennial Park and pool parties in your backyard are just some of the things people do to celebrate America’s independence. However, with celebrating, comes a responsibility for your loved ones. According to National Fire Protection Association study issued last year, over 15,000 firework-induced fires were reported. Not only can these fires result in hundreds of dollars in property damage, but it can also cause bodily injury to you or a loved one. So while you, your friends and family gather around your backyard to celebrate, make sure you have taken all the proper precautions necessary if you plan on setting off a few fireworks.

Have a fallen tree in your back yard? Call the Parke Company to have the tree removed. This will prevent any unnecessary problems if a firework flies in that direction.

Have any deadwood or brush that needs to be removed? Same with a fallen tree, the Parke Company can assist in removing any deadwood or brush that could be potentially hazardous during Independence Day festivities.

Have any overgrowth that needs that needs to be cut back or even removed. Have any landscaping questions? Not only can overgrowth upset the ambiance of a barbeque, but it can also “fuel the fire” if the overgrowth is out of hand. Call the Parke Company for any landscaping or design questions you have before the holiday.

There are many things to consider before hosting your 4th of July get-together in Middle Tennessee — from bratwursts to party music to even deadwood. Celebrate this year’s Independence Day with ease and schedule your tree maintenance or landscaping needs now before it is too late. Call the Parke Company at (615) 405-6548 for more information.

Have a Mosquito Problem in your Nashville Backyard? Try a Bat or Martin House

March 7, 2024June 5, 2013 by The Parke Company

The beautiful summertime in Middle Tennessee can often mean you spend your outdoor activities armed with bug spray. Insects such as mosquitoes can dampen your summer and prevent you from doing more activities. There is always one great natural way to control these outdoor pests: bat and Martin houses.

Yes, we know what you might be thinking. Bats?! Though they might have a bad reputation, these flying mammals are actually quite beneficial for insect control. Both bats and Martins can eat thousands of insects a day, even mosquitoes. According to the Tennessee Bat Working Group, bats can eat approximately 3,000 insects a night. That’s half of their body weight!

Many times, acquiring bat houses and tree removal go hand in hand. The Parke Company receive a lot of inquires after a tree has been removed. “What can we do with this space now?” people ask. If planting a new tree is not an option, consider installing a bat or a Martin house during your landscape makeover. This will not only naturally control insects, but it can also enhance your Nashville wildlife appreciation without having to visit Percy Warner Park.

The Parke Company will not only help you with tree service, but also assist you in finding the right type of house best suited for your area. Depending on the species, your house might require size or environmental specifications. Here are just a few things to think about for each type of house:

Bats:

Nocturnal animals, these creatures eat at night.
The design and construction of the house is very important. The Parke Company will be able to assist you in specific size and shape.
At least 6 hours of daily sunlight exposure is recommended for all bat houses. This is to ensure the bat houses are kept warm.

Martins:

Spends their time eating and doing other acivities during the day
Housing needs to be out in the open (at least 30 feet away from your residence) to avoid other disturbances.
Keep the housing at least 10-20 feet high to protect from predators.

Sometimes after a tree removal, you want to consider different options. The Parke Company will help you brainstorm great alternatives for your landscape — like installing bat or Martin houses. Not only is this a great natural insect repellent but it’s also a great animal-focused activity for you and your family right at home. For more information on types of houses and specific requirements, call the Parke Company today for information on this or other tree services at (615) 405-6548.