How To Remove A Tree On Your Property

Tree removal on your property involves preplanning as well as careful and precise cutting. Depending on the size, condition, and location of the tree that you wish to remove, you have the following options: 

  • Chop Down The Tree and Then Dismantle It - This method requires ample clearance around the tree so that it can fall onto the ground without hitting any other trees or structures. Decide which way you wish the tree to fall and clear all objects from the path. Climb the tree or use a ladder to attach a rope to the upper portion of the tree so it can be guided from the ground to fall in the desired direction. With a chainsaw, cut a 90º V-shaped slice out of the main tree trunk about one-fourth of the way through the thickness of the tree. Make this cut on the side of the tree that faces the direction that you wish it to fall. Cut another 90º V-shaped slice out of the tree trunk on the opposite side of the tree trunk a few inches above the first cut that you made. Pull on the attached rope to guide the tree trunk down to the ground in the direction you wish it to fall. Once the tree is on the ground, cut off the major limbs and branches and stack them for disposal. Continue to cut the remaining tree stump until you have completely cleared the tree from the area. There is no need to dig up and remove the root system as it will die away naturally. 
  • Dismantle the Tree and Then Chop It Down - Clear the area around the tree so that branches and limbs from the tree can safely fall to the ground when cut. Climb the tree or use a ladder to reach the upper portions of the tree. With a chainsaw, cut the branches and limbs of the tree and allow them to fall to the ground. You may need to stand on some of the more sturdy tree limbs and branches as you cut other limbs and branches above you. If needed, nail pieces of 2x4 cut lumber "steps" to the main tree trunk to give yourself something to safely stand on while you work. Allow pieces of the tree to fall to the ground as you cut them. Periodically, dismount the tree and move the cut pieces away from the bottom of the tree, and stack them off to the side for disposal. Continue cutting the tree limbs and branches from the top down until you have completely dismantled the tree and only have the main tree trunk still standing. Attach a rope to the upper portion of the tree trunk to guide it to the ground as it falls. Chop down the tree trunk as described above with two 90º V-shaped slices out of the main tree trunk one above the other. Once the tree trunk is on the ground, chop it up into manageable pieces and stack with the other tree branches for disposal. Continue to cut and trim the tree stump until is it flush with the ground. 

Either of the above methods will work to remove a tree from your property. Choose the method that is appropriate for the size and condition of the tree in the particular area where it is located. If desired, a portion of the tree trunk can be left standing on the ground and cut and shaped to be used as a garden table, chair, or platform. A large tree trunk can also be cut up into flat discs and installed as stepping stones to make a natural garden path. Whichever method you use, you will have plenty of wood to use for building projects or firewood from your removed tree.   


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