Whether they’re a beautiful addition to your yard or help keep your home cool in the summer, large trees add value and beauty to your property. But when they’re old or dying, you may need to remove them.
If you have a tree that’s too tall or difficult to remove on your own Tree Company Greenville, consider hiring a pro. Here’s how to do it safely:
1. Use a Chainsaw
Removing a large tree requires a lot of hard work and careful attention to detail. This can be dangerous, so it’s best to hire an expert arborist or a tree removal service to handle such a job.
The first step in removing a large tree is to cut it down section by section. This is the safest and most practical way to get rid of a tree.
Chainsaws are powerful tools, but they can be dangerous if not used properly. Before using a chainsaw, make sure it’s in good condition and that you have all of the proper protective gear, including safety chaps.
Before you begin working with your chainsaw, always position yourself on a level spot, at least six feet away from the trunk of the tree. You also want to be above shoulder height for beginning cuts, which will keep you from getting a kickback.
When felling a tree, have a friend or a trusted assistant watch for falling branches and tap you on your shoulder when they’re ready to start. When you hear the sound, stop cutting and set your chain brake.
2. Make an Undercut
If you have a large tree that you want to remove, it is best to start by making an undercut. An undercut is a V-shaped cut into the side of the tree in the direction that you want it to fall. The undercut should be about one-fourth of the tree’s diameter in depth.
Once you have made the undercut, it is time to make a back cut. This cut is one to two inches higher than the undercut and is made slightly above the hinge point of the undercut.
The back cut releases the stresses of the undercut and allows the tree to fall. It also helps to prevent the butt of the tree from hitting the operator.
3. Make a Notch
Notching a tree is a critical step for controlling the direction that the tree will fall when you make a felling cut. This allows you to safely remove the tree and avoid crashing into other nearby structures or people.
The first step in notching a tree is to make a flat cut that’s about one-third or one-fourth of the tree trunk’s diameter, according to professional arborists. The notch you create should be large enough to help the tree stay on its feet during the fall, but not so big that it could be dangerous to cut it too deeply.
Next, you need to clear a path for the tree to fall onto. You should also make two escape routes, which can help you quickly get to safety if anything goes wrong.
4. Apply Pressure
Taking the time to do it right can save you a lot of hassle and money down the road Tree Service Greenville. A little preparation can go a long way when it comes to raking leaves, pruning, and trimming that oh so precious yard. Having the right tools on hand can also help you avoid making the mistakes of the past. The best place to start is with a good pruning guide and a good pair of sharp tweezers.
