How to Do Tree Removal Yourself

Trees add beauty and value to your property, but sometimes a tree needs to be removed. Whether it’s dead or dying, too close to a home or power lines, or simply outgrowing its space, removing a tree is a serious task that should only be done by a certified arborist. In some cases, however, it may be possible for the average homeowner to take on a tree removal project themselves. If there’s enough room for the tree to fall in the right direction, proper tools and safety equipment are available, and you have a clear plan of action. If you’re thinking about tackling a tree removal project yourself, read on for some tips to help you succeed.

The first step in any successful tree removal project is to examine the site to determine how best to proceed. Make sure that there is enough space for the tree to fall in its intended direction, as well as a secondary escape route in case it falls in a different direction. Also be sure that the tree is not near anything that can be damaged, such as other trees, fences, outdoor furniture, cars, fire pits, and more.

Next, saturate the soil around the base of the tree with water. This will soften the ground and make it easier to cut, move, and remove the tree. Be sure to wear the appropriate safety gear, including gloves, a hard hat, goggles, and protective clothing. You should also keep people and pets a minimum distance of double the height of the tree away from the work area to ensure that they are not injured when branches, limbs, or the tree itself fall.

Start by sawing off the lower branches, using a chainsaw. These should be cut by making an undercut, or a cut upwards from the underside of the branch. Then saw downwards about 1/4th of the way through, to the point where the branch meets the ground. This will ensure that the branches fall without breaking or splintering.

Once the lower branches are removed, use a rope to control the remaining branches. This can be a challenging task, but the effort is well worth it to prevent potential injuries and property damage.

If you’ve successfully felled the tree, it will need to be loaded into a truck for transportation. At The Cat Rental Store, we carry stump grinders in multiple sizes, so you can quickly grind away a tree’s roots once it is removed from your yard.

For more information about tackling large-scale tree removal projects, or for any questions about our tools and services, be sure to contact your local The Cat Rental Store today. Our expert team is always happy to answer any of your questions. We look forward to serving you soon!