Tree Removal Techniques

Removing an unwanted tree from your yard or property requires careful planning and following of safety guidelines. While some people feel they have ability to fell a tree themselves, others would rather hire professionals. Whether doing yourself or getting a tree felled professionally, it's important to pick the proper tree removal technique. These techniques vary depending on size of tree and proximity to other structures.

Self-removal

Taking a tree down by yourself means adhering to safety guidelines and only doing what is in your ability. Cutting down a 100-foot tree may not be the best choice if it is your first time cutting down a tree. Also, ensure that proper safety gear is always worn. This means wearing a hard hat, googgles, gloves and durable clothes. The first step in taking down a tree includes ensuring there is enough room for the tree to land. The next step is to use a saw or chainsaw to remove branches from the tree. Remember to start at the top and proceed downwards. After all branches are removed, you can make the final cut to fell the tree.

Professional Tree Removal

A tree climber will cut branches as he works his way up a tree. A tree trimmer uses harnesses, safety rope and wears protective gear. After the branches are cut off the tree, the tree climber will cut sections of the trunk (from top) as he comes down the tree. Once the tree is short enough to fell, the final cut is made so the rest of the tree falls.

Spar Pole

This method of tree removal also uses a tree climber who cuts branches off of the tree as he goes up. Once the tree is trimmed, removal of the upper part of the tree trunk requires a rigging rope to lower chunks to the ground. This is used when the sections of the trunk cannot fall freely to the ground due to other structures being too close.

Whole Tree Rigging

Using a rigging rope to remove all parts of the tree is the most time-consuming type of tree removal. It takes longer, but ensures that no damage to other buildings or power lines occurs during the felling.