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Assessment and Planning: Before making any cuts, we assess the tree and the surrounding area. We look at the tree’s height, lean, health, and any potential obstacles nearby, like buildings, power lines, or other trees. Based on this, we plan the safest direction for the tree to fall and determine which tools we’ll need.
Clearing the Area: We make sure that the area around the tree is clear of any obstacles or people. This ensures that we have a safe zone for the tree to fall, and no one is in harm’s way. We typically establish a 'felling zone'—a safe distance where no one should be standing when the tree is being felled.
Making the Notch Cut: The first cut we make is called the "notch" or "face cut." This is a horizontal cut, followed by an angled cut to form a notch in the tree. This notch helps guide the tree’s fall and determines the direction in which the tree will go. It’s essential that the notch is positioned properly so that the tree falls in the safest direction.
The Felling Cut: After the notch is made, we make the "felling cut" on the opposite side of the tree, slightly above the horizontal cut of the notch. This cut will be horizontal and will allow the tree to begin leaning and eventually fall. We leave a small "hinge" of uncut wood between the notch and the felling cut. This hinge controls the tree’s fall, ensuring it goes in the desired direction.
Tree Falling: As we make the felling cut, we use wedges or a chainsaw to encourage the tree to begin falling in the intended direction. Once the tree starts to fall, we move quickly to a safe location and keep an eye on its descent to ensure it falls as planned.
Final Check and Clean-up: Once the tree is on the ground, we begin cutting it into manageable pieces, and we safely remove the branches. Afterward, we clean up the area, ensuring all debris is removed and the site is left tidy.
"Safety is our top priority throughout the entire process. We use professional equipment, wear safety gear, and take great care in planning each step. The goal is to remove the tree safely and efficiently, with minimal impact on your property and surroundings."
Chainsaw: The primary tool for cutting down a tree. A professional-grade chainsaw is used to make the notch (face cut) and the felling cut. It’s also used to cut the tree into smaller sections once it’s on the ground.
Extra Chainsaw Blades: Chains can become dull after prolonged use, so having spare chains is important for efficiency.
Chainsaw Maintenance Kit: Tools for cleaning and maintaining the chainsaw, ensuring it runs smoothly throughout the job.
Wedges: These are inserted into the felling cut to help direct the tree’s fall. When the tree begins to lean, the wedges help guide it in the right direction, ensuring it doesn’t fall unpredictably.
Harness: A climbing harness is used for tree surgeons who need to ascend the tree to make cuts, especially in taller trees or to make sure the cuts are properly positioned.
Lanyard: A safety rope used to secure the tree surgeon to the tree while working.
Rope and Carabiners: Used for safety when ascending and descending the tree or for securing tools and equipment.
Helmet: With a face shield or visor to protect the tree surgeon from falling debris during the felling process.
Ear Protection: Earplugs or earmuffs to protect against the loud noise of the chainsaw.
Gloves: To protect hands from sharp tools and chainsaw vibration.
Protective Boots: Steel-toe boots to protect against falling debris and to provide traction while working.
Chaps: Chainsaw protective trousers that help prevent chainsaw injuries in case of accidental contact.
Felling Axe: Used for making initial cuts into the tree or for trimming branches that may obstruct the felling process.
Maul or Sledgehammer: A heavy hammer used in conjunction with wedges to ensure they are driven in securely.
Plastic or Metal Wedges: These are used to prevent the tree from getting stuck in the cut or to help with controlling the direction of the fall.
Sledgehammer or Mallet: Used to drive the wedges into the felling cut to control the tree’s descent.
Rope: If the tree is near obstacles (e.g., buildings or power lines), a rope can be tied to the top of the tree or a high branch. This allows for better control when the tree starts to fall, ensuring it doesn’t cause damage to nearby structures.
Pulleys or Rigging Blocks: For trees in difficult positions, pulleys or rigging systems can be used to guide the tree’s fall or to help lower large sections safely.
Felling Bar: A metal bar that is inserted into the cut to help pry the tree or assist in opening up the cut if it’s not opening naturally.
Wedge Bar: Used in conjunction with wedges to safely direct the tree’s fall, especially if it’s leaning or the cut is difficult.
Cutting Guides: Some tree surgeons use laser or mechanical cutting guides to ensure their cuts are precise and at the correct angle for felling.
First Aid Kit: Essential for addressing any minor injuries or accidents that might occur during the felling process.
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