Deforestation is an essential part of landscaping, which sometimes is necessary due to various reasons such as, but not limited to, safety issues and beauty. Nonetheless, it is also a mission that has a risk of its own, in the form of human and property. Learning to remove the tree safely is important so as to make sure that the process is done effectively without any accidents. This guide will look into several features of tree removal among them being the purpose of tree removal, tools needed in tree removal, safety measures and step-by-step process of successful and safe removal of trees.
The reason to cut down the trees
It is necessary to know why a person may have to remove a tree before going into the methods of safe tree removal. There are many factors that can make trees dangerous such as common tree diseases requiring treatment, structural instability or contact with structures. A sick tree can be very dangerous as it can drop its branches at any time or can fall down completely. In the same way, leaning over trees or those that are damaged by storms may cause dangers to the surrounding houses and electrical cables.
Trees can also be used to block views or cause congestion in a garden, which will result in the plants competing over resources. The elimination of these trees would enhance the general well-being and beauty of the surroundings. Irrespective of the purpose, cutting of trees should never be done carelessly and without considering the environment.
Preparing for Tree Removal
This is done by preparation to ensure a safe and effective process in removing the trees. It is important to examine the surroundings and the tree before being engaged in any work. Begin with the assessment of the height, lean and condition of the tree. A tree which is leaning over a building or power line is more dangerous when being removed. Note the area surrounding, the distance between buildings, fences, and other trees. Such a test will assist in identifying the most suitable method and orientation of cutting the tree.
Preparation is also a vital element of collecting the appropriate tools. The simplest equipment used in felling trees normally consists of a chain saw or handsaw, ropes, safety goggles, hard hat, gloves, and first aid kit. In case of bigger trees, one will need more equipment like wood chipper and stump grinder. It is essential to make sure that every tool is properly maintained.
Safety Precautions
Safety must be given priority before the process of the tree removal process starts. It is necessary to wear the right personal protective equipment (PPE). This involves hard hats against the falling branches, safety goggles against the debris that may hit the eyes, gloves to give good grip and save the hand, and good footwear to save against the slip and fall.
It is also prudent that any surrounding people should be informed of the intended move. It is important to create a safety distance around the tree and no one should be in the area where the falling debris could fall. At least two tree lengths away would be suggested between the base of the tree and the distance.
The weather on which the removal is scheduled should also be put into consideration. Wind is highly likely to influence the direction to which a tree will fall and it becomes more unpredictable. When the conditions are not conducive, it is perhaps wise to wait before removing the same until the weather is favourable.
Safe Tree Removal Techniques in Steps
When all the preparations and safety means are ready, it is time to start the tree removal. There is an approximate procedure of safe removal of trees and it is as follows:
Evaluation of the Direction of the Tree
Determine the natural tilt and weight of the tree before making any cut. This will aid in knowing in which direction the tree is expected to fall. When trees are cut, its tendency to lean in a given direction will most likely result in the tree falling in that direction. Identify an obvious escape path that will take one out of the expected path where the tree may fall.
Making the Notch Cut
The initial cut in the process of cutting down the trees is referred to as the notch cut. This slice makes a notch to one side of the tree in the direction the tree is supposed to fall. Two cuts are required to form the notch; the top cut and the bottom cut. The best cut is angled between 45-degrees downwards forming a shape of a wedge. The lower cut must be in contact with the upper cut creating a notch that cuts away part of the tree. This notch assists in the direction of the fall of the tree.
Felling the Tree
Once the notch cut has been made it is time to make the felling cut and this is the cut that eventually cuts the tree down. This is a cut that is to be made on the other side of the tree, just a little higher than the horizontal cut that is made on the notch. The cut made is supposed to be horizontal and parallel to the ground. As you cut this tree, remember the movement of the tree. The further the felling cut, the more the tree will start leaning towards the notch cut.
Retreating to Safety
When the tree has started falling, it is paramount to move to the safe area which is already agreed upon and move back. Watch the tree as it falls, and see whether it has any hazards or any sudden movements. One must remain vigilant and in case of a tree falling to the ground one should be ready to have branches falling off.
Dealing with the Fallen Tree
After the tree is safely taken off the ground, it is followed by processing it. When you begin, the first thing you should do is to cut out some branches of the fallen tree, and you can use a chainsaw or a hand saw. Cut the branches into small sizes to dispose or to chew. In case the tree is very big, then cut the trunk into parts so that it can be handled easily.
In case the tree is to be removed all the way, the stump will also require an action. Stump removal may be affected by a number of ways, such as stump grinding or chemicals. Stump grinding consists of the removal of the stump using a special machine to level the stump below the ground. Or, the stump can be broken down by chemical treatment with time, but this is a more time-consuming approach.
Environmental Considerations
Deforestation may have serious consequences to the environment, and one should take these factors into account before making such decisions. The importance of trees is that they have some crucial advantages, such as carbon capture, wildlife home, and soil stabilization. Hack through the possibilities of pruning or cabling to support rather than removing them entirely.
In case there is a need to remove trees, then think of planting new trees in that region. The practice will ensure that the ecological balance is maintained and it will lead to a healthier environment. The choice of the right replacement species which meets the site requirements and landscape form would help increase the biodiversity of the area.
Hiring Professionals
Although several people might be assured that they are able to extract a tree, it is important to note that there are times when one would need to employ the services of other people. The cutting of trees may be erratic and hazardous particularly when they are huge or lean towards one another. Professional arborists are equipped, trained and experienced to operate in a safe manner in dealing with removing the trees. They are able to evaluate the situation and use sophisticated techniques and make sure that an efficient and effective implementation process is accomplished.
Professionals also decrease the chances of property damage and personal injury. They are able to clean up and remove tree debris and you are left with a clean and safe property.
Conclusion
The kind of method of removing the trees should be according to safe techniques so that the removal can be done safely and without any problem. Through the realization that it is necessary to cut trees, adequate preparation, safety consideration, and appropriate methods, one will be able to go through this difficult task with ease. However, regardless of whether one has to remove an individual tree or he or she is to handle a series of removals in a property, it is essential to undertake the task carefully and in a manner that will not harm the environment.
Deforestation is a task that cannot be underestimated. Through safe practices, and putting in mind the overall effects of cutting down trees, one can help in establishing a sustainable landscape that is effective to the people as well as to nature. It is always good to remember that in case of uncertainty it is always peaceful to consult professionals and see that cutting down of trees is done with maximum security and safety.
Leave a Reply