Tree Felling – How to Safely Cut Down Large Trees
Tree felling is one of the many difficult and dangerous activities that home and property owners may be faced with.
While typically not a job that should be undertaken by the average property owner, some may take on the task themselves due to several reasons including cost savings and convenience.
While it may be tempting to think that tree felling is a simple and straightforward process, it is anything but.
Before attempting to cut down a large tree, property owners should learn the proper techniques, recognize the potential risks, and embark on this process safely.
Warning and Preparation
The first step in tree felling is to recognize the potential risks associated with the task and take the necessary steps to protect both the property and the person undertaking the task.
It is important to consider any objects on the ground that may be damaged if a tree is to fail in the wrong direction.
When working with larger trees, protective gear such as safety helmets, goggles and gloves should be worn at all times.
When felling a tree, it is important to create a notch or small horizontal cut in the tree trunk on the side of the tree that the tree is intended to fall in.
This cut should be made at a slight downward angle, and should be made about a quarter of the way through the trunk.
The second cut, or back cut, should be made about two inches higher than the first cut, angled slightly away from the tree’s intended direction of fall.
This cut should be made slightly higher than the first cut to ensure the tree doesn’t bind onto the trunk while falling.
Felling Directions
The direction in which a tree should fall will depend on several factors. First, any structures such as property or buildings should be identified and factored into the plan.
Secondly, if the tree is to be used for lumber afterwards, it will need to be felled in such a manner that the lumber is not damaged in the cutting process or the fall.
Finally, any obstacles such as power lines or overhanging trees must also be identified.
Tree pulls and levers are a common tree felling technique used to guide the direction of fall.
Tree pulls and levers can be made from logs and strategically placed on the side of the tree that it is meant to fall.
If done properly, the tree pulls and levers will naturally guide the direction of the tree’s fall.
Cutting Strategies
The cutting of larger trees can prove to be a difficult task, however there are several tactics that can be used to minimize the effort and reduce the risk of injury.
If the tree is small enough, chainsaws can be used to easily dislodge the tree from its trunk.
If the tree is too large for chainsaws, then a felling wedge can be used to cut the tree.
A felling wedge is a specialized tool which is typically used to cut down large trees.
Other Methods
In some instances, trees may need to be felled without the use of cutting tools.
If a tree is dead or dying, it may be possible to use an alternative method such as ‘spiking’ to dislodge the tree from its base.
Spiking involves driving nails into the base of the tree and then cutting or pulling them apart.
While this method is not as effective or reliable as cutting tools, it can be used when access to cutting tools is limited.
Conclusion
Tree felling is a complex and potentially dangerous task.
Before attempting to cut down a large tree, property owners should understand the proper techniques and potential risks associated with the process.
Safety equipment should be worn at all times, and property owners should assess the surrounding area prior to felling a tree
. Although it may be tempting to take on this task alone, calling an experienced tree surgeon is always the safest option.
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phone number: +44 7846 036227
Location: 11 Springwood Cl, Harefield, Uxbridge UB9 6EW, United Kingdom
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