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Keep Branches Clear of Structures

Tree Trimming in Pittsburgh for branches touching roofs, blocking views, or overhanging driveways

Triple T Tree Care trims trees on residential and commercial properties throughout Pittsburgh using pole saws, bucket trucks, and climbing gear to cut back branches that scrape against buildings, block sightlines, or drop leaves into gutters. You're tired of hearing branches tap your siding during windstorms, or you can't see oncoming traffic when pulling out of your driveway because limbs hang too low, and you need cuts that create clearance without harming the tree's overall health.

Our trimming process removes only the branches causing problems, cutting them back to a lateral branch or the trunk rather than leaving stubs that invite decay. We measure clearance distances to ensure branches won't touch your roof within the next two growing seasons. Each trimming service includes debris removal and a clean yard, with cuts made at the proper angle to shed water and close quickly.

Call Triple T Tree Care to schedule a trimming assessment and receive a plan showing which branches need cutting and how much clearance you'll gain.

Why Clearance Cuts Matter

You'll see our crew measure the distance from branch tips to your roof or windows before cutting, which prevents us from removing too much wood while ensuring adequate clearance for future growth. We cut branches back to a point where they won't reach the structure within two years, accounting for the average annual growth rate of your tree species. Pittsburgh's wet springs and warm summers promote fast growth in maples and oaks, so we factor in 12 to 18 inches of new growth per year when determining where to make cuts.

After trimming, you'll notice branches no longer scrape your roof during wind, gutters stay clearer because fewer leaves accumulate, and you have better visibility when backing out of your driveway. The tree maintains its natural shape because we avoid blunt cuts that create unsightly stubs or trigger excessive regrowth.

We do not trim more than one-third of a tree's canopy in one session, as excessive cutting stresses the tree and reduces its ability to produce food through photosynthesis. If your tree needs major size reduction, we'll recommend pruning over two years or discuss removal if the tree has outgrown its space.

Questions About Tree Trimming

Tree trimming requires an understanding of branch growth patterns, proper cut placement, and how trees respond to wounds, so these questions cover the details that affect long-term results.

What is the difference between trimming and pruning?
Trimming focuses on cutting back branches to create clearance from structures or improve appearance. Pruning targets dead, diseased, or structurally weak branches to improve tree health. Both use similar cutting techniques but address different problems.
How often should trees be trimmed?
Most trees need trimming every two to three years to maintain clearance from roofs and driveways. Fast-growing species like silver maples may need annual trimming, while slow-growing trees like oaks can go longer between cuts.
Why can't I just cut branches flush with the trunk?
Flush cuts remove the branch collar, which contains cells that seal the wound and prevent decay from entering the trunk. Cutting just outside the collar leaves the tree's natural defense intact and helps wounds close faster.
What happens if branches touch my roof?
Branches rubbing against shingles wear away the protective granules and create entry points for water. They also drop leaves into gutters, provide a bridge for squirrels and rodents to access your attic, and can puncture roofing during storms.
When is the best time to trim trees in Pittsburgh?
Trim trees during late winter or early spring before leaves emerge, which makes it easier to see branch structure and allows wounds to heal quickly once growth starts. Avoid trimming in late summer when cuts can stimulate new growth that won't harden off before winter.

Triple T Tree Care has trimmed trees across Pittsburgh for over 15 years, including clearance cuts on properties where branches were damaging roofs and blocking views. Contact us for a site visit and we'll assess your trees, measure clearance needs, and provide a written trimming plan.