Removing the tree from your yard can be a tedious process to deal with. It all begins from inspecting your tree. In the event that your tree is posing risks for you, your family and your home, then maybe it’s time to have your tree removed.
This can be an emotional decision for others especially if the tree has been in their yard for years, and they have made plenty of memories from it.
But even though trees are perennial (live up to 20 years or more), they can still die and their old age can become detrimental especially when its branches start to fall off.
Tips On Preparing Your Yard For Tree Removal
There are a few things you must do to ensure the tree removal process is smooth and trouble-free. You may consider DIY techniques on tree removal, but these may not be effective especially if you have zero experience. Further, the risk of causing damages or injuring someone in the process is possible.
It’s highly advisable to hire a tree removal service, or call an expert, licensed arborist. Once you have decided how you’ll remove your tree, it’s crucial to prepare your yard as part of the process.
#1 Know the condition of your tree
The first thing that happens before making a decision of removing your tree is inspecting or understanding its condition. Don’t allow to have your tree cut down or removed if you don’t know its condition.
- Weak or strong tree: For instance, a weak tree doesn’t require a deep first cut because the tree
may begin falling before the area is clear for the fall. Meanwhile, if your tree is sturdy and hard, the tree removal service may need a deeper opening or incision because it will take too long for the tree to fall. - Check for a hollow sound: To determine whether your tree is strong and difficult to cut through, or frail and easier to remove, knock on its bark. If you hear a hollow sound, that indicates hollow weakness. Thus, it requires a lighter cut to initiate the process. Meanwhile, if it is the opposite, you won’t hear a hollow sound.
may begin falling before the area is clear for the fall. Meanwhile, if your tree is sturdy and hard, the tree removal service may need a deeper opening or incision because it will take too long for the tree to fall.#2 Prepare your equipment
This tip is for those who intend to do tree removal on their own. There are plenty of equipment you need to prepare involving tree removal. This includes a ladder, axe or chainsaw, rope, and protective gear. If you don’t own any of this equipment, then take a trip to the nearest hardware store and purchase those tools.
Hire a tree removal expert: Spending your money on those equipment can be expensive. So, you may want to think twice on using it instead for hiring a tree removal expert.
Borrow from your neighbour: However, if you can borrow the tools and equipment from a friendly neighbor, it can also save you money.
Troubleshoot equipment: Once you have all the tools and equipment you need, don’t forget to check on those. Troubleshoot to make sure your equipment will work as they should. Doing this minimizes the risk or possibility of an accident from happening due to faulty equipment.
#3 Clean your yard
Make sure that the surrounding area of your tree is clear. Likewise, don’t let anything be in the perimeter of the tree’s falling area to prevent it from getting hit during the fall. If your yard has permanent structures including houses, other trees or fences, then establish a fall area where your tree can collapse and avoid any plants or structures.
Direct which way the tree must fall: Choose the direction for your tree to fall naturally. For instance, if the tree is leaning slightly to the right, then it may be chopped on that area so it falls to the right. Whichever way your tree falls depends on how it will be cut.
No children nor pets in the area: Make sure not to allow any children or pets to come within the area. Let everyone know to keep their distance to avoid any untoward accident. Everyone else except the tree removal expert should keep their distance at least twice the tree’s height.
Formulate two escape routes: It’s also important to make two escape routes. The first route is when your tree falls in the expected direction, and the second route is in case it falls to an unplanned direction. Having two routes guarantees that anyone working on removing the tree can escape safely.
Cleanup: Remember as a kid when you had to clean everything before you can proceed onto another activity? It works the same way with preparing your yard for tree removal. A way to clean up your yard is removing fallen leaves or branches from your property.
Conclusion
There are indeed a lot of preparation to deal with, with tree removal. It’s acceptable to remove the tree on your own, however it may not be safe especially if you have no experience in doing it. Hiring a tree removal company, like the Bellarine Trees will make the process easier. Look for a professional and guaranteed safe tree service to ensure that the removal of your tree is done in a timely manner.
Daniel Stone
Daniel has worked in the management, cutting, and caring of trees for the last 20 years. He works and helps run Bellarine Trees and is passionate about the environment and tree worker safety. He has a wife and two daughters and he enjoys playing tennis in his spare time.
