How to Perform Tree Felling Correctly

Tree Felling is the process of bringing down a tree by cutting it at the base and using a chainsaw to split the stump and remove it from the ground. This can be done for various reasons, including reducing the risks and hazards of an unhealthy tree or clearing space for new landscaping projects. It requires a great deal of care and skill to perform correctly, making it essential to hire a professional tree felling service.

Felling a tree can be dangerous, especially when performed incorrectly. More people are killed during tree felling than in any other logging activity, and it’s important to know how to do it safely.

The first step is to determine where the tree will fall and mark safe and unsafe zones around it. This can be done by standing with your back against the trunk and looking up to see where most branches are and where the largest mass is located. This will help the tree to fall in a controlled manner and avoid causing damage to structures, vehicles, or other objects.

You should also make sure that there are no power lines near the site. If this is the case, it’s important to contact the power company so they can come out and perform an inspection before you attempt to fell the tree. Loose limbs are a common cause of serious injury and death during felling, so examine the tree for any that may fall onto you or anyone else nearby. If you find any that are unsecured, cut them down before falling the rest of the tree.

It’s also important to consider the wind direction while determining where the tree will fall. If the wind is blowing in a different direction than you’re intending, it can change the way that the tree falls and could lead to serious injuries or property damage. A plumbline can be used to check wind direction before you start cutting, but it’s a good idea to walk your escape route before making any felling cuts in order to ensure that it’s clear of obstacles or hazards.

After determining the direction of the fall, you can create a notch cut by sawing into the side of the tree at a 45-degree angle to the intended direction of the fall. This will create a hinge effect, helping the tree to fall in the desired direction. Next, create a back cut on the other side of the notch cut that’s about 5 cm higher than the top of the notch cut. This will prevent the hinge from breaking, which can cause side scars.

Tree Felling can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. With proper planning and the right equipment, it’s possible to fell trees safely while minimizing the potential for hazards or damage to surrounding areas. By removing dead or unhealthy trees, you can improve light penetration and airflow in your garden or yard, while adding visual appeal and value to your property.

from Treby Tree Services https://trebytreeservices.wordpress.com/2025/07/21/how-to-perform-tree-felling-correctly/