The Basics of Tree Felling

The felling of trees is a big undertaking that can have major consequences if it’s not done properly. It can result in serious damage to property or injury/death to the feller and bystanders. In addition, in many areas you will need a permit to fell a tree (even if it’s on your own property). It’s a job that should never be taken lightly and is best left to professionals who have the skills and experience to handle the task safely and efficiently.

Before you ever start to cut a tree down, it’s essential that you analyze both the tree and the surrounding area. Is the tree too close to a house or other structure? Are there any utility lines nearby? Does the tree have structural defects or dead branches? Do any of the roots extend under a building or other structure? Is the ground sloped where the tree will fall?

You will also want to be sure that you have the proper tools and safety gear before starting. A chainsaw can be dangerous to operate if you’re not familiar with it and don’t have the right training. It’s important to make sure you have a fully charged battery and enough fuel for the chainsaw before you get started. It’s also a good idea to clear the area around the base of the tree and remove any debris that could trip you while you’re working.

After analyzing the situation, it’s time to plan and execute the felling. This involves putting up warning signs and determining the direction that the tree will fall. In order to achieve this, a directional notch must be made in the trunk of the tree. The directional notch consists of two separate cuts that remove a triangular portion of the trunk. The notch must be located on the side of the tree facing the desired direction of fall, and it should be positioned one-third of the way into the trunk.

The directional notch acts as a guiding slot for the tree and helps to control its path of fall once the final sawing cut is made. It can be made using either a standard or modified undercut, though the latter has become more popular because it is easier to perform and provides additional safety features.

During the final cut, the sawyer should ensure that the directional notch is lined up with the direction of the desired fall and the hinge is set up to support the weight of the tree as it begins to collapse. If the directional notch isn’t properly lined up with the fall, the tree may fall in a different direction than expected and cause damage or injury. The final cut is known as the felling cut and should be made as close to the notch as possible while still maintaining a safe distance from any limbs and roots that remain.

from Rangeview Tree Services https://rangeviewtrees.wordpress.com/2024/09/14/the-basics-of-tree-felling/