In order to safely and efficiently remove a tree it is very important to consider the following things: safety, equipment, and work plan.
1. Safety- this is the most important aspect of all. Tree removal can be a very dangerous undertaking. Do not undertake a tree removal that is beyond the scope of your competence. Listen when that little voice inside of you is telling you no. Once you are certain the removal project lies within your comfort zone, review the following check list:
a. Personal Protection Equipment - Hardhat, safety glasses, gloves, and sturdy shoes. When doing a lot of chainsaw work it is a good idea to wear hearing protection and chaps (protective coverings that help mitigate chainsaw injury).
b. Site Inspection- Inspect the surrounding terrain to make sure there is an adequate buffer zone to remove the tree without risking injury to other people or property. Make sure the tree is clear of overhead power lines and the work area is free of trip hazards.
c. Tree Inspection- Check for broken branches, dead branches (which are weaker and more likely to break), cavities, rotted wood, excessive lean, mounded soil (which can indicate root ball is lifting and unstable), or stinging insects or troublesome animals.
2. Equipment - Having the right equipment is crucial to successfully and safely executing any tree removal. Small trees (about 4" or smaller in diameter) can be reasonably done with a handsaw. Loppers can be used to cut branches that are within reach- up to about 3 inches in diameter. Pole saws and pruners can be used to remove out of reach branches from the ground. For larger trees a chainsaw is the best tool. Make sure the chain is sharp and you know how to safely operate it. A good rope installed as a pull line is also a useful implement to help steer the tree or branches to the intended location. A wedge can help when felling a tree and bucking up trunk piece on the ground.
3. Work Plan - Don't attempt any tree removal that requires you to climb more than a few feet above ground. Do not attempt to remove large branches from a ladder. This is a common cause of injury. Climbing aloft requires highly specialized knowledge and equipment. This limits the average homeowner to tree removals that can be done from the ground. This would include smaller trees that can be sectioned or felled from the ground. Do not attempt to remove trees in areas with restricted drop zones, or when the tree has a lean. A tag (positioning) line should be anchored as high in the tree as possible and on a branch strong enough to withstand the pull. Designate two different escape routes to take once the tree begins to fall. Next cut about a 60-degree notch in the direction you want to drop the tree. It should go in about 1/3 the diameter of the trunk you are cutting. The final or back cut should be made slightly above the apex of the notch but leaving about 10% of the diameter of the trunk intact. This is the hinge wood that will steer the tree in the right direction. One or more helpers can help insure the tree goes in the intended direction by pulling on the tag line.
When your tree removal needs exceed your own capabilities- be smart. Call a professional ISA Certified Arborist to help.
