If you are thinking of removing a tree on your own, here are 8 tips Milledgeville Tree Services compiled to help you with the large task at hand. Most tree removal methods include a chain saw. They also assume you want to take down the entire tree, however, in most cases, you will need to do so piece by piece. The following steps should help to make your tree removal process slightly more manageable.
- Considerations- Consider the time and energy you have to do this entire project yourself. If you are lacking either, consider hiring a professional. If it is a busy landscaping season and it is hard to get ahold of landscapers or tree services, you may be thinking of taking one down yourself. Just be sure you are mentally prepared for the task at hand. Consider the types of vehicles and equipment you may need. Some equipment may be rented from your local hardware store if you do not have it on hand. You may have to rearrange your yard or site to configure the equipment where you need it. You should also consider any branches you may stand on as well as the diameter of the tree and the ground conditions if you are thinking of leaning a ladder against the tree.
- The basic approach-
- Prepare to cut down main branches which may be up to twenty feet high. These may be some of the more difficult branches and the toughest part of the job.
- Cut down the main branches.
- Cut down the smaller branches.
- Cut the trunk down.
- Tools and materials- Here are some tools you need if you want to do the job on your own. You will need a ladder, reciprocating saw, batteries for the saw, extension cord (unless you saw cord is insanely long), extra saw blades, a hand saw for cutting branches, and goggles to protect your eyes. You may also need scrap wood for steps and to hold your feet when climbing the tree, brackets to support your feet, nails to secure a pulley system for the large branches, screws to secure the wood, spike nails to help secure the ladder, a drill, a hammer, and a tool belt so you will not have to make unnecessary trips up and down the ladder. You may also need rope to help guide branches and to pull tools up the tree. Pro-tip: bring a lot of band-aids. You will surely cut yourself at some point during this process.
- Prep the ladder- Setting the ladder up sees like an absolute no brainer. However, there are some things to consider when you are putting up your ladder at the beginning of this process. It can be particularly difficult to lean the ladder against the cylindrical tree because it will want to slide to the left or the right. There are several ways you can hook the ladder to try to prevent any unnecessary sliding that could be dangerous to you.