There are about 5.5 billion trees in urban areas across the United States. It’s important to have plenty of trees to shade and purify the air.
Sometimes though, you need to remove a tree or move it to a new location. But removing a tree can be a dangerous project. So you need to learn how to remove a tree safely.
Follow this guide to learn the safe way of removing a tree yourself.
Gather the Safety Equipment
To do a proper job, you need to have the right equipment. This will prevent injuries.
- Safety Goggles
- Helmet
- Respirator
- Hearing protection
- Gloves
- Steel-toed boots with ankle protection
- Long-sleeved shirt and pants
Clear the Surrounding Area
Make sure no children or animals are hanging out near the tree. Then let any adult in the area know what you’re about to do. Everyone should stay clear of the area except for the people cutting down the tree.
Choose a Fall Direction
Take a look at the tree and determine the most natural direction for it to fall. If it already leans to the left, then it’ll be easier to fall that way. Determining which way it will fall will change how you chop it.
Make Your Cuts
Stand with your shoulder to the tree and make a cut that is angle 70 degrees. Place your cut on the side of the tree where you want the tree to fall. You want to cut into the tree about one-quarter of the way into the tree’s diameter.
Your second cut is horizontal on the opposite side of the tree. The more accurate you make this cut, the more predictable the fall will be.
You don’t want to cut all of the way through. Leave about 1/10 of the treewidth left so you can control the fall.
Clear the Area
At this point, you’ll want to clear the area. Stay back until the tree has completely fallen. If your tree is smaller, then you can give it a small push to help it fall in the right direction.
Remove the Stump
If your tree is smaller, then you can dig the stump out by hand. Use your shovel to dig around the stump and then lift it out. To make the job easier, you can burn it out, grind it, or use a chemical stump remover.
If your tree is bigger, then it’s best to Google “tree service company near me” to find a professional service to come out and remove the stump for you.
You Know How to Remove a Tree
Now that you’ve read through our guide, you know how to remove a tree. So grab your safety gear and a buddy. Get to work deciding which way your tree should fall and making your chops.
Remember that safety should be your first priority. Keep little ones away from the area and clear the area yourself when the tree starts to fall.
Check out the home improvement section of our blog for more advice on making your home beautiful.