What You Should Know About Tree Removal

If you have a tree that’s dead, diseased, or dangerous, or has become a hazard to your property or other trees or shrubs, it might be time for tree removal. There are several options for getting rid of a tree, including cutting it down yourself or hiring a professional. Regardless of the method you choose, there are some important steps that you should follow to ensure that you’re getting the job done safely and responsibly.

Removing a Tree

A professional arborist will begin the tree removal process by assessing the location of the tree and determining if it’s large enough to fell it in one piece. If it is, the arborist will make sure the fall direction is clear and safe. If it’s not, the arborist will cut it down in sections so that it doesn’t fall in an area where it could harm or damage other trees and plants.

Once the tree is felled, it’s a good idea to remove all of the debris from the scene to prevent future hazards. The debris may include branches, stumps, roots, and other materials that have fallen or landed on the ground. The debris can clog gutters and sewer lines, cause a safety hazard, or be a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects.

Removing the Stump

When it’s time to get rid of a tree stump, you can use an organic method or a chemical one. Either way, you’ll want to be sure that the stump is surrounded by water and mulch to help it break down. Then, you’ll need to cover the stump with a tarp to retain moisture and to prevent it from drying out.

The tarp will also prevent the soil from washing away, which can damage the tree stump and create a fungus or mold problem in the area. Once the tree stump has been covered in mulch and water, it will take four to six weeks for the stump to break down.

DIY Tree Removal

It’s possible to safely remove a tree yourself with the proper tools and safety gear. However, it is best to leave the task to professionals if you have no experience. In addition, it is a wise idea to have two escape plans in case the tree falls unexpectedly or in an unintended direction.

Before attempting to chop down the tree, assess how it leans and how the crown is attached. If the tree has a heavy crown, it will probably fall to one side, while a lighter crown might fall in the opposite direction.

After you’ve determined the direction that the tree will fall, a good strategy for DIY removal is to cut it down into a right-angle notch, which should be about 1/3 or 1/4 of the diameter of the trunk. This notch needs to be in the right direction for the tree to fall safely, and it should be positioned 10 feet above the ground.

Before attempting to remove the tree, it’s important to determine whether or not you have the necessary equipment and skills. For example, you’ll need to know how to safely handle a chainsaw. You’ll also need to wear protective eyewear, earplugs, and gloves. In addition, you will need to have a second person to watch for falling limbs and to keep you informed of any issues that arise.