5 Tips For Good Tree Removal You Should Know
Tree removal is a very dangerous job.
In fact, the CDC estimates there to be about 80 deaths per year related to tree care. It is always recommended that if you can, call a professional.
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If you decide that using a professional is not the way to go for you, make sure to always put safety first.
Tips for Tree Removal
Putting safety first begins by asking the right questions, and gathering the right data. With the correct information, you can create a plan of action that will keep you, and your loved ones, safe.
1. Use the Proper Tools
By using the proper safety equipment, you can prevent an injury. Before you begin your project, make sure to have the following:
- Helmet
- Hearing protection
- Safety goggles
- Respirator
- Long sleeved shirt and pants
- Gloves
- Protective chaps (for larger trees)
- Steel toed boots with ankle support (for larger trees)
- Chainsaw
- 1000 lb Rope
- Fall protection
2. Gather the Right Data & Prepare the Area
To gather the right information you will want to ask the right questions. Begin your project by asking these questions:
- How tall is the tree?
- Are there any power lines, or buildings, that could hinder the tree falling?
- Which direction should the tree fall?
Once you determine the answer to these questions, sweep the area and make sure there are no children or animals that could be harmed. If you aren't sure how to determine the answers, consider cheap tree removal by a professional.
Make sure to also plan two escape routes, in case your tree falls in an unintended direction.
3. Make an Angled Cut
Stand with your left shoulder to the tree, and proceed to cut a 70° angle. You will want the cut to be facing the direction you want the tree to fall. Cutting at this angle will be about 1/4 of the diameter of the tree.
Once you have made this angled cut, you will want to go to the opposite side of the tree. On this side of the tree, you will cut horizontally towards your angled cut. Stop once you have about 1/10 of the diameter of the tree left.
Leaving this small "hinge" will give you control over where the tree will fall.
4. Run Away as the Tree Falls
Pull your saw out of the tree and take your first escape route. Should the tree begin to fall towards you take your second escape route.
Don't return until the tree has fallen completely. If you have a smaller tree that doesn't fall over immediately, give it a push in the direction you want it to fall.
5. Consider How a Tree Heals
If you are only wanting to remove a portion of a tree, you should consider how trees heal. Trees have a natural response to wounds, much like we do as humans. If you don't take care to cut branches correct, you may endanger your tree.
The tree will form scar tissue to protect itself from disease and decay. If the branch is not removed correctly the tree will not be able to form the scar tissue, leaving the tree vulnerable.
Make sure to make a relief cut when trimming the branches on your tree.
Remove Your Tree Safely
Tree removal is a risky business. Always make sure you have a team to help you or hire a professional.
About the Author Laura Bennett
Hello, I’m Laura Bennett. I love nature especially when it comes to flowers and different kinds of plants. I started a very small garden behind my house and I named it Humid Garden. So, I created this blog to provide aspiring and inspiring thoughts about gardening for gardeners and anyone who has the intention of keeping a garden.
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