Trees are essential to our environment, providing us with better air quality, and contributing to our beautiful landscapes. However, there are times when tree removal becomes necessary for safety, property maintenance, or for developments. Professional tree felling is a specialised service that is designed to remove trees safely, and efficiently, minimising risks to people, property, and the surrounding environment. Unlike DIY tree removals, professional tree surgeons have the expertise, equipment, and knowledge to handle even the trickiest, most dangerous tree situations.
In our blog, we'll be exploring tree felling in a complete guide, to help you understand the process. From the purpose of tree felling to key considerations, we will highlight the important information you should know regarding tree felling. We'll also look at the dangers of improper tree felling, and how this can impact your safety. To learn more about tree felling, keep on reading our article.
What Is Tree Felling?
Tree felling, also known as tree removal, is the process of cutting down trees. Felling involves making controlled cuts to direct the tree's fall. It's important to consider factors like the tree's size, lean, surrounding obstacles, and the weather conditions when removing a tree.There are various reasons why trees may need to be removed, especially if they are a hazard in the surrounding area. Some of the reasons why trees may be removed include:
● Land clearing - To make space for construction, agriculture, or other large projects.
● Timber harvesting - To obtain wood for various uses like building materials, furniture, and paper.
● Safety concerns - Removing trees that are dead, diseased or damaged because they pose a risk to property or people.
While felling is sometimes necessary, it's important to recognise the ecological importance of trees. They provide habitats for wildlife, producing oxygen and absorbing carbon dioxide. Responsible tree felling focuses on the importance of trees and contributes to safe, effective removal of them only when it is absolutely necessary.
The Tree Felling Process Explained
Tree felling is a complex process that requires careful planning in order to get it right. Whether you're felling a tree for land clearing, timber harvesting, or safety reasons, it's essential to understand the steps involved in the process.
Preparation
Preparation is essential before any type of removal occurs, as it ensures that everything is safe and ready to be worked on. Some areas or projects that are looking to remove trees will need permits and need to check with local regulations before any removal takes place. Additionally, a clear working zone needs to be outlined in order to keep people safe. This area needs to be kept clear of people and vehicles to prevent damage or injury from the falling tree or debris. The safety area will have to be determined based on the size of the tree.
Inspection & Planning
Inspection is also essential, it includes tree surveys and environmental assessments which are incredibly important. Tree surveys will look at the tree in detail, searching for any signs of decay, disease or damage that could impact the removal process. After these assessments have been made, your team will develop a detailed plan for how the tree will be felled, including the direction of fall, the type of cuts to be made, and any support that is needed.
Felling
The felling is the actual process of cutting and removing the tree. Conventional felling will remove the tree in one entire piece. This process involves making a notch cut (a wedge-shaped cut on the side of the intended fall) and a back cut (a cut on the opposite side, slightly higher than the notch). The notch directs the fall, and the back cut severs the remaining wood.
Controlled felling is another technique which can be used to remove trees, using wedges or ropes to control the direction and speed of the fall.
Sectional Removal
This is used when space is limited or when felling the tree in one piece is too dangerous, near power lines or close to buildings. The tree will be cut down in sections, starting from the top. Each section is carefully lowered to the ground using ropes, rigging equipment, or a crane. This method requires professionals who are experienced and trained in sectional removal to ensure that the process is carried out as safely as possible.
Post-Felling Checks
The final stage of the felling process is post-felling checks that take place. These checks are crucial for safety and ensuring that the tree has been removed properly. Some steps involved in the post-felling check include:
● Safety Check - Inspecting the area to ensure that there are no remaining hazards, such as hanging branches or dangerous debris.
● Debris Removal - Clearing and disposing of all tree debris, including branches, logs, and wood chips.
● Stump Removal (Optional): Sometimes the stump left behind will be ground down or removing the remaining stump if needed.
● Site Restoration: This involves restoring the area to its original condition, which may involve filling in holes or replanting shrubbery.
When Should You Use A Professional Tree Felling Service?
You may think that DIY tree removals are a viable option, however it can pose serious risks when handling large trees near buildings and people. There are many situations where a professional team should be used to help you remove a tree, read below to understand when a professional team is required.
Large Or Hazardous Trees
Trees that are tall, have a large diameter, or are showing signs of decay, disease, or structural weakness pose significant risks during removal. Falling branches and other debris can cause serious damage to the surrounding area and to people nearby.
Trees Near Structures Or Power Lines
Felling trees close to houses, fences, or power lines means that precise control is needed, especially to avoid damage. Professional teams will have the relevant expertise and equipment for safe removal when it comes to different types of trees, even trees in difficult areas.
Difficult Access
Trees located in problem areas, such as steep areas or spots with dense vegetation will need specialised teams to handle them safely.
The Risks Of Improper Tree Felling
Attempting to fell trees yourself without the proper knowledge and equipment can lead to serious injuries to you, others and even property damage. Hiring a professional service ensures the job is done safely, efficiently, and with minimal risk. Some of the risks involved with handling tree felling yourself include:
● Physical Injuries - Without the proper planning that is carried out by professionals, there can be serious risks of falling debris and personal injury. Inexperienced individuals trying to handle tree removals may not have the correct safety gear, also putting them at risk of an injury.
● Property Damage - Property damage can be serious without the right professional planning. Not only can falling debris be a risk, but tree roots and stumps can disrupt underground facilities like plumbing or wiring when they are improperly removed.
● Environmental Damage - Without the proper checks, environmental damage can occur from improper tree felling. This can lead to permanent and severe damage to surrounding ecosystems.
● Legal and Financial Consequences - DIY felling without insurance can leave you liable for any damage caused to neighbouring properties or public property. In addition to this, many areas have strict regulations for tree removal, and failing to comply with these regulations can result in fines or legal action.
Arbour Services: Your Reliable Tree Surgeons
Professional tree felling services are essential for safely and efficiently handling trees that could pose risks to a property or a specific area. With the expertise and knowledge of qualified tree surgeons, these services ensure a smooth process which prioritises safety, compliance, and environmental care. It's important to remember that attempting to fell a tree without professional guidance can lead to accidents, legal complications, or long-term property damage, making it a risk not worth taking.
Here at Arbour Services, we offer a range of tree surgery services, as well as landscaping and commercial services. Whether you're looking for tree surgeons or practical landscape professionals, our team is here to help. To learn more about our services, or how we can help you, feel free to get in touch with our team today.
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