Due to the inherent danger with tree felling it is recommended that the task be undertaken by experienced trained professionals. However in some cases you may be able to do it yourself, especially when the tree is short and small. All you need are a few guidelines and the proper equipment. In addition, you should ensure that you know how to stay on the safe side to avoid the risk of harm to yourself, other people and nearby objects.
Before you embark on tree felling, ensure that you have all the necessary equipment. They should also be in good working condition. You, therefore, need to test them before going on to the actual job.
One piece of equipment you cannot afford to leave out is a chainsaw. Its horsepower should have enough horse power and bar length to comfortably cut through the tree in question. Additionally, you should have safety glasses to keep your eyes from flying debris. Also include leg protection to guard against any harm to your legs if the saw happens to hit a knot and consequently kick out of the tree onto your leg. Other important pieces of equipment include a rope, axe, ladder and wedges.
Before you power your chainsaw in preparation for tree felling, knock against the tree with your axe. A hollow sound means that the tree is either dead or dying and, therefore, will be easier to cut. If the sound is solid, the tree is alive and there will be a little more difficulty in felling it. Nevertheless, you should find a spot that would make it easy to cut through.
Next, determine the falling direction. In particular, look at the way the tree leans. It is easier and safer to allow the tree to fall where it is naturally inclined to land rather than forcing it in a different direction. However, ensure that the landing ground is level to prevent accidents or damage that may result from bouncing or rolling of the cut tree.
Once you have determined the direction of the fall, make a horizontal cut, not higher than your hip. Nevertheless, don’t let it go beyond a third of the way through. Remember that the fall of the tree will be perpendicular to the cut.
Next make a wedge cut. You can make it either from the top or bottom of the horizontal cut as long as you ensure that it is straight. The resultant slice should resemble that of an orange.
Finally, make a cut on the back. Make it as thick as possible and not less than 4cm over the horizontal cut. Keep in mind that the back cut will tell the thickness of the holding wood, which in turn will determine the manner in which the tree will fall.
With the completion of the back cut the tree should begin to fall. At times you may end up with an even holding wood, in which case you should cut in more wedges as necessary. When you are sure the tree is falling, make your escape. Don’t, however, keep your eyes from it. By turning your back on the falling tree, you increase the risk of injury.
Remember that your safety is more important than the actual act of tree felling. If you feel that you will be putting yourself, companions or nearby property or other objects in harm’s way, drop the idea of cutting the tree yourself and get a professional to do it safely. If you are convinced that there is no potential for danger, be prepared anyway and map out an easy and quick escape route in case things don’t go as you had planned them.
For tree felling in urban areas it is highly recommended to use a specialist tree felling company such as Royal Tree in Queenstown.