Tree Felling Methods

When trees need to come down, it is not uncommon for a homeowner to do it himself instead of hiring a professional to do the job. The procedure for taking down a tree and having it fall where it will not cause damage or injury is called felling. Although is best to use a professional when felling a tree, there are different methods to do it yourself safely.

Hinging

Hinging is used when trying to remove a small tree. Two ropes are tied around the trunk of the tree, high enough to allow leverage to guide the tree to the ground. Two people pull on the ropes to direct the fall, while another person cuts through the trunk. 

Standard Undercut

An undercut is a cut one-third of the way through the tree trunk. A standard undercut is when the first cut is made at the level you want the tree to hinge and break. The next cut should be higher and at a 45-degree angle down to the first cut.

Reverse Undercut

This method is begun by making a cut one-third of the way through the tree trunk at the level you want the tree to hinge and break. The reverse undercut should be lower and at a 45-degree angle up to the first cut. 

Open Face Notch

The open face notch is a cut used to make a wider hinge for more control when making a back cut. Establish a hinge point and make the first cut above this point. The first cut should be a 45-degree cut down to the hinge point and through one-third of the trunk.  Make the next cut below the hinge point and cut 45 degrees up to the hinge point.   

Back Cut

A back cut is made on the opposite side of the trunk from the hinge cut. The first cut should be made above the hinge point, cutting from the back of the trunk to the point of the hinge. The tree will fall to the ground after this cut, so make sure the tree path is clear.