Need some tips on how to cut down a tree? Generally, we at Tree Removal North York, recommend calling a professional arborist. Hiring a tree cutter versus wielding your own power saw and cutting down your own tree. In case of hazardous trees, especially those of significant height, you will need to contact an expert tree removal service to do the job for you. This is a very delicate and complex task with risks involved. However, if it is a particularly small tree and you are up to the task, we recommend safety first at all times. Here are some tips and tricks that will lead to a more efficient tree cutting job.
Safety Gear
Take safety very seriously when felling a tree. You need safety gear materials that can protect you throughout the process – and prevent you from losing a finger or two along the way. The most important gear to have are:
- Face screen and earmuffs for eye and ear protection
- Kevlar chaps stop the chain right away in case you drop the bar onto your leg
- Logger’s helmet to shield your head from falling limbs and branches
Process to Follow
Now let’s proceed to the steps of the process you need to follow for a safe and efficient tree cutting experience.
- Purchase your felling wedges. There is a possibility for your chainsaw to get pinched while cutting a tree. In this case, you need to buy 2 pieces of felling wedges to prevent this situation from happening. You should be able to find this tool at a power equipment shop or any place that sells chainsaws.
- Estimate and assess the felling zone. You might think it’s just a small tree, but it has a much farther reach and greater height than you probably had expected. So you should make an estimate of the zone where the tree will fall by using the so-called “ax handle trick”. Do this by holding your ax handle at an arm’s length, then with one eye closed, slowly back away a few steps from the tree. The right distance is when you can see the top of your ax is already even with the top of the tree and the bottom is the right distance with the base. An extra room is a smart idea, just in case!
- Remove obstructions from the cutting area. You may be certain about the way the tree will fall, but be sure to keep the zone clear to prevent any damage or accidents.
- Assess the tree’s condition. Study the tree first, NEVER cut down if there are dead branches that are attached but broken. Remember it is not advisable to cut a tree when it leans in one direction where there are structures that can be affected. If the tree is near power lines or buildings, call a professional for help.
- Make the right notch. The best notch is deep enough, at least a fifth of the diameter of the trunk. You may lay the notch out with a chalk once you have measured it before cutting it.
- Use wedges when necessary. Big trees with over 18 inches in diameter will require the use of wedges. Make the notch cut and start with your felling cut. But once you have reached far enough, stop the cut and pound the wedges right behind the bar. In case the tree ends up leaning back, the wedges prevent your saw from getting pinched accidentally in the cut.
- Start the felling cut. Keep the back cut parallel and perfectly even with the notch’s apex. After this step, perform the final cut. Pull out the saw free as soon as you see the tree leaning. Set your chain brake and go to your escape routes quickly while keeping your eye on the tree. NEVER look away from a falling tree while making sure of your steps.
Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution. When dealing with dangerous tree removal Tree Removal North York is just call a way.