When is it safe for a homeowner to cut down a tree and what do they need to consider when planning for tree removal? Tree cutting comes down to two main factors; preparation and equipment. It is advisable for homeowners to hire a certified arborist when a tree is over ten inches tall.

Here are some of the steps and precautions taken by arborists to safely take down trees around your home.

Preparation

The size of the tree and location

The first thing that arborists do is to survey the area to see what there is around the tree. For example, are there other trees or power lines in the area that could be damaged by cutting down the tree? Is there any property by a homeowner that may be destroyed, like garages, sheds etc.? Understanding the exact location of the tree and its surroundings will make the planning process easier.

Tree Limbs and Cuts

Arborists also consider the crown of the tree. Some of the branches in the tree might be broken or dead. Arborists check for these dead components to minimize the risk of injury while the tree is being cut down. They remove the dead/broken branches and clear out the area where they plan for the tree to fall.

The procedure involves making a 70-degree cut on the side that the tree is supposed to fall. This cut goes through a quarter of the tree's diameter. The next cut is a horizontal cut that meets the 70-degree cut, creating a notch. Once this is done, a final cut is made from the opposite side of the tree.

Arborists will typically saw until they have enough room to insert a wedge. From there, the cut is continued, but not all the way through. Just enough to create a sort of hinge and the tree begins to fall by itself.

2. Equipment

Helmets, safety glasses and earplugs: These are the general set of equipment used by arborists. They provide protection from objects falling on workers' heads, particles that might fly into their eyes, and loud sounds that come from sawing or cutting down the tree.

Chainsaw Chaps: A majority of chainsaw injuries happen to the legs. This is why arborists use chainsaw chaps that are filled with ballistic fibers. Once the chain grabs them, it binds up the engine and shuts it off.

Gloves and Boots: These are also a standard combo of safety equipment that is used by arborists. The gloves provide protection to hands and allow for a firm grip on the chainsaw and/or other tools in use. The boots are for feet and ankle protection but also provide a firm grip when scaling the tree.

Arborists are experts at tree removal in and around your property. If you notice that a tree is becoming troublesome or posing a risk to safety, an arborist can provide proper guidance on the way forward. For more information, contact a local expert in under scrubbing.