Safely removing a tree from your property

Removing a tree from your property can be a daunting task. Whether you are dealing with a dead or diseased tree, or simply looking to clear some space in your yard, it is important to take the time to properly assess the tree’s condition and plan for the removal.

It is very important to think about health and safety when removing a tree and (our bias is that) consulting a professional is the best way to ensure that the job is done properly and safely. It is always better to consult with or hire your local tree service to help you with the process, as they will have the proper knowledge, tools and expertise to safely remove a tree from your property.

However, it is also important to understand the basic steps and considerations involved in the process. While we do not suggest you take up this task yourself, this article will cover the key subtopics of assessing the tree’s condition, planning and preparation, proper tools and equipment, different methods of removal, and safety precautions and tips.

Here are the 5 topics for this article:

Please note that this article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a suggestion to carry out work that should be left for professional tree service. Ashley Tree Services is not responsible for any accidents or injuries that may occur as a result of using the information provided in this article. If you were to proceed with tree removal on your own, you would be doing so at your own risk.

1. Assessing the tree’s condition and determining if it needs to be removed

Assessing the tree’s condition and determining if it needs to be removed is the first step in the process of safely removing a tree from your property.

This involves evaluating the tree’s overall health, looking for signs of disease or damage, and determining if it can be dangerous and poses a safety hazard. When assessing the tree, you should look for things like dead or dying branches, discolored or misshapen leaves, or signs of insect or disease infestation. It is also important to check for cracks or other structural damage to the tree’s trunk or roots.

In some cases, the tree may need to be removed because it is the wrong type of tree for your yard, or because it is susceptible to pests or diseases that cannot be controlled. Additionally, old age can also cause trees to become weak and unstable, making them a hazard to your property and the people who live and visit there.

When you have assessed the tree’s condition, you will be able to determine if it needs to be removed. If it does, it is important to make sure that you have a plan in place for how to safely remove it. This will include selecting the appropriate method for removal and ensuring that you have the proper tools and equipment. It is also important to consider the safety of yourself, your property and the others during the whole process. Removing a tree can be a complex task, so it is always best to consult with a professional tree service to ensure that the job is done safely and efficiently.

It is important to note that before removing a tree from your property, you should check with your local authorities to see if the tree has a tree protection order. Some trees may be protected by local laws and regulations and cannot be removed without permission from the authorities. Ashley Tree Services can assist you in this process and help you obtain the necessary permits or permission to remove the tree.

2. Planning and preparation for tree removal

Before starting the process, it is important to consider the size and location of the tree, as well as the type of equipment and tools that will be needed for the job. You should also take into account any potential hazards or obstacles that may be present, such as power lines or buildings in close proximity to the tree.

It is also important to create a plan for how to dispose of the tree once it is removed. Depending on the size and condition of the tree, it may need to be cut into smaller sections for removal or it may need to be removed in one piece. Additionally, you will need to decide if you want to keep the wood or if you will have it chipped or removed. Planning and preparation also includes getting the required permits and permission from the local authorities as well as making sure you have the necessary equipment and tools and arranging for the disposal of the tree.

3. Proper tools and equipment needed for tree removal

When it comes to tree removal, there are a variety of common tools and specialized machinery that tree services use that a person might not have access to. While a simple handsaw or an axe might be sufficient for cutting small branches or cutting down small trees, it is not enough to safely remove a tree. Tree removal requires the use of specialized tools and equipment, as well as a thorough understanding of tree biology and best practices for safe removal.

Some of these include:

• Chainsaws: These are the primary tool used for cutting down trees and are available in a variety of sizes and styles to suit different types of trees and cutting needs.
• Wood chippers: These machines are used to shred branches and other debris into small chips that can be easily disposed of or used as mulch.
• Stump grinders: These are specialized machines that are used to grind down tree stumps and roots to below ground level.
• Aerial lift trucks: These are large vehicles with a lift platform that can be used to access tall trees for pruning or removal.
• Ropes and harnesses: Professional arborists use ropes and harnesses to safely access and work in trees.

Attempting to remove a tree without the proper knowledge, tools or equipment can be extremely dangerous. Even with all the mentioned professional tree surgeons suffer accidents every year. If it can happen with experts, it puts the risk for average homeowner in contrast. Tree removal is a complex and potentially hazardous task that requires specialized knowledge, skills, and equipment.

4. The different methods of tree removal and their appropriate usage

There are several different methods of tree removal that can be used. It is important to note that the appropriate method of removal will depend on many factors, depending on the size, condition, and location of the tree:

• Directional Felling: This method involves cutting down a tree and letting it fall in a carefully planned direction, minimizing the risk of damage to surrounding property or injury to people.
• Sectional Felling: This method involves cutting down a tree piece by piece from the top down, allowing each piece to fall directly beneath the tree. This method is often used in tight spaces such as small gardens and backyards in urban areas.
• Rope and Harness Assisted Felling: This method involves using ropes and harness to control the direction and area of the felled tree. In sectional felling case, cutting off pieces of the tree and lowering them to the ground with ropes and harnesses, rather than letting them fall. And in directional felling, using ropes to add level of control and predictability for the direction in which tree falls. 
• Stump Grinding: This method involves grinding down the remaining tree stump and roots to below ground level.
• Utilization: This method involves either taking the tree away with no cost or offering an extra service of splitting the wood that can be used for firewood into usable fresh firewood. Ashley Tree Services practices utilization and offers this kind of service to it’s clients.

When thinking about tree removal, it’s also important to consider whether the stump will be removed or not. If the stump is to be removed, it requires specific machinery such as a stump grinder, so this needs to be taken into account when planning the removal.

5. Safety precautions and tips for tree removal

If you ever decide to take up tree removal yourself, please do so after finishing qualified courses and remember to:

• Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including hard hats, safety goggles, ear protection, and work gloves. Sawdust and dirt can also be a hidden risk no one thinks about, yet it can cause serious eye problems like infection if they get in the eyes and aren’t treated.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times and make sure you and everyone else living, inanimate and important keeps a safe distance from the tree and the area where it will be falling.
• Plan an escape route in case of emergency and ensure that all personnel and equipment are clear of the falling tree.
• Never attempt to remove a tree that is in close proximity to power lines or other electrical hazards.
• Inspect all equipment before use and ensure that it is in good working condition.
• When removing a tree from your property, it’s important for you to use proper techniques to minimize the risk of injury or damage. However, it is important to note that some techniques may present a risk if the person performing the task is unprepared. Tree surgeons go through extensive education, courses, and qualifications and then get first-hand tree removal experience. In reality, the conditions and scenarios can be much different.
• Always consult with local authorities to ensure that you are following all necessary regulations and that the tree does not have a tree protection order.
• Have a property and personal insurance which covers tree removal accidents. It happens even with the most experienced tree surgeons, so it is something worth considering.

In conclusion, safely removing a tree from your property requires proper planning, preparation and execution. It is essential to assess the tree’s condition, ensure the tree does not have a tree protection order, use proper tools and equipment, and follow the appropriate method for removal. Remember, attempting to remove a tree without the proper knowledge, tools or equipment can be extremely dangerous, even for the most experienced tree surgeons.

At Ashley Tree Services, as your local Manchester tree surgeons, we understand the importance of safety, professionalism and carrying out works to the standards and requirements of our local governing bodies. When it comes to tree removal, we take pride in our work, and you can trust us to provide you with the highest quality service.

Let us take care of the hassle and risks associated with removing a tree from your property. Contact us today for all your tree care needs.